Finally Minnesota has a fresh layer of snow, and it's about time! For the past month we've been dealing with the post-fall crash when the leaves are gone and the snow hasn't yet blanketed the state, turning it into a winter wonderland. So, to honor the beginning of another season full of beautiful views that you just can't find in the warmer states, here are 23 amazing photos of Minnesota when the snow completely transformed the land into phenomenal scenery.

1. Nothing is more beautiful than the snow covered trees in MN.

The forests are a magical place in the winter, and you'll often find yourself walking or skiing surrounded by complete silence.

2. This snowy field in St. Cloud is glistening in the sun.

It's places like this that are usually left alone that are so much fun to photograph.

3. The Duluth Lakewalk offers unparalleled winter scenery of Lake Superior.

But be cautious because all that snow and ice is blindingly beautiful.

4. In Minneapolis, the snow covered Stone Arch Bridge and Mill City Ruins look spectacular against the rest of the city.

Finding a serene, snowy area in the middle of a crowded city can only happen in MN.

5. The reflectiveness of an icy lake, combined with the bright white snow, make for a stunning photo.

Even the scenery reflected back is the same blissful color.

6. In Spring Valley, looking out over the snowy field is always peaceful.

And it's that much better during the sunset!

7. In Tower after the first snow, this scene reminds us of why we ought to appreciate the beauty of MN winters.

And the fact that we have heating to look forward to inside!

8. The Duluth lighthouse down the snowy shore looks even more spectacular in the winter.

Especially under an equally gorgeous cover of clouds.

9. Lutsen is one of MN's favorite winter destinations and it's no wonder why!

This Thanksgiving photo shows how the North Shore will just get better and better as it gets colder and colder.

10. And on the other three sides, Lutsen is surrounded by beautiful snowy forest.

The likes of which only Minnesotans get to experience for a full season each year.

11. Back in St. Cloud, sometimes a closer look can make us appreciate the snow even more.

Combined with the sunlight, it's looking like the most peaceful moment in time.

12. On the shores of Superior, the snow and ice cover the rocky beaches.

Eventually, the water shows up, but only after some equally impressive ice blocks.

13. The sides of the Mississippi look phenomenal under a blanket of snow.

And the rushing water adds amazing contrast to the areas where the river has frozen solid.

14. Back in Spring Valley, another look at this one-of-a-kind sunset reveals an even more gorgeous perspective.

Nothing beats the sunset reflecting off the untouched areas of the snow.

15. On Pike River, this year's first snowfall has made the trees look magical.

The clouds create an awesome reflection in the river, and tell of the snow that's still to come.

16. Duluth always looks great through the fog.

And with a coat of snow, it's even more mystical than usual.

17. Another amazing shot of the shore at Lutsen...

This time we can see the waves crashing fiercely against the rocks and ice.

18. This snowy winter day showcases the changes in MN scenery from open space to snow covered forest.

Nothing makes us happier than some fresh powder.

19. Caledonia's fields may be little-known, but who doesn't want to go for a drive to see views like this?

In Houston county, there are many more amazing shots to be captured!

20. This sunset on the North Shore might not be beautiful because of the snow.

But the snow sure doesn't hurt the look.

21. Grand Portage looks spectacular completely blanketed in fresh snow.

The little sun peeking through makes this photo possible, and so stunning.

22. Dawn at Lutsen is made so much better by a layer of new snow.

And it looks like there's more on the way!

23. After this year's first snow, every lake is a reflection of blissful winter scenery.

This winter wonderland is definitely open for the season.

And as we get more and more snow, hopefully you can all get inspired to bundle up and head outside with your cameras to capture some of the most fantastic scenery of the year. When you snap those magical winter moments, be sure to share them with us on the Only In Minnesota Facebook Page for a chance to be featured on the page, or in some of our winter posts!