Minnesota Scenic Byways

File:AppleBlossomScenicDriveCounty3County12.jpg

Apple Blossom Drive Scenic Byway is a {{convert|19|mi|adj=on}} route in southeastern Minnesota that runs from La Crescent to U.S. Highway 61 north of Donehower. The highway meets the Great River Road at both ends and provides access to Great River Bluffs State Park. As its name suggests, many apple orchards are along the highway.{{cite web |title=Apple Blossom Drive Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/apple-blossom-drive-scenic-byway/2330 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Minnesota State Highway 46}}

Avenue of Pines Scenic Byway consists of the entirety of Minnesota State Highway 46, a {{convert|46.4|mi|adj=on}} road which connects U.S. Highway 2 in Deer River to the south with Minnesota State Highway 1 in Northome. The route passes through the Chippewa National Forest and provides views of pine stands and several lakes, including Lake Winnibigoshish.{{cite web |title=Avenue of Pines Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/avenue-pines-scenic-byway/2343 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Minnesota State Highway 38}}

Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway consists of the entirety of Minnesota State Highway 38, a {{convert|46.8|mi|adj=on}} road which links U.S. Highway 2 in Grand Rapids with Minnesota State Highway 1 in Effie. A former logging road, the byway passes several lakes and enters the Chippewa National Forest.{{cite web |title=Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/edge-wilderness-national-scenic-byway/2331 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

File:Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway (35259626492).jpg

Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway is a {{convert|220|mi|adj=on}} route in central Minnesota with several loops and spurs. The landscape along the route was formed by glaciers, the evidence of which can be seen in its many glacial lakes and ridges. Sibley State Park, Monson Lake State Park, and Glacial Lakes State Park are along the byway.{{cite web |title=Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/glacial-ridge-trail-scenic-byway/2338 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway}}

File:Grand Rounds-Great River Road-2005-06-06.jpg

Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway is a {{convert|46|mi|adj=on}} network of roads, bicycle paths, and pedestrian paths in Minneapolis and its neighboring suburbs. The byway begins in downtown Minneapolis and follows the Mississippi River to the city's southern edge before looping along its western and northern borders. It connects downtown attractions, numerous parks and historic sites, and the city's Chain of Lakes.{{cite web |title=Minneapolis Grand Rounds Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/minneapolis-grand-rounds-scenic-byway/2333 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Great River Road}}

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River on both banks from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana, entering ten states in total. The {{convert|565|mi|adj=on}} Minnesota portion of the road connects its source at Itasca State Park to the Iowa border in the state's southeastern tip. Along the way, the road passes through twenty of the state's counties and several of its major cities, including both Minneapolis and St. Paul.{{cite web |title=Great River Road National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/great-river-road-national-scenic-byway/2334 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Gunflint Trail}}

File:Gunflint Trail Sign Assembly.jpg

Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway is a {{convert|57|mi|adj=on}} road following County Road 12 in Cook County, Minnesota's northeastern tip. The byway begins in Grand Marais and passes through Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Many recreational opportunities exist along the road, including lakes with fishing and canoe access, hiking trails, and campsites.{{cite web |title=Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/gunflint-trail-national-scenic-byway/2341 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Minnesota State Highway 16}}

Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway is an alternate designation for Minnesota State Highway 16, an {{convert|87.7|mi|adj=on}} highway in southeastern Minnesota. The route follows the Root River through the hills, bluffs, and valleys of the Driftless Area. The river provides fishing, canoeing, and other recreational opportunities. Much of Minnesota's Amish population lives along the route.{{cite web |title=Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/historic-bluff-country-national-scenic-byway/9040 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|U.S. Route 75 in Minnesota}}

The Highway 75 King of Trails Scenic Byway includes all of U.S. Highway 75's {{convert|414|mi|adj=on}} route through western Minnesota. The highway passes through Minnesota's prairie regions and passes Pipestone National Monument as well as multiple state parks.{{cite web |title=Highway 75 King of Trails Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/highway-75-king-trails-scenic-byway/3074 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

File:Lady Slipper Scenic Byway sign.jpg

Lady Slipper Scenic Byway is a {{convert|21|mi|adj=on}} route between U.S. Highway 2 in Cass Lake and U.S. Highway 71 in Blackduck. The route passes through the Chippewa National Forest and features views of many lakes and forested areas. It also provides access to the Rabideau CCC Camp. Its name comes from the lady slippers which bloom in the area in summer.{{cite web |title=Lady Slipper Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/lady-slipper-scenic-byway/2342 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Lake Country Scenic Byway is a three-legged {{convert|88|mi|adj=on}} route in north central Minnesota. Its legs meet in Park Rapids and lead to Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, Itasca State Park, and Walker. The route passes many of Minnesota's lakes and provides birdwatching opportunities through access to the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail and Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.{{cite web |title=Lake Country Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/lake-country-scenic-byway/2339 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway is a {{convert|68|mi|adj=on}} road encircling Lake Mille Lacs. The road includes parts of Minnesota State Highway 18, Minnesota State Highway 27, Minnesota State Highway 47, and Minnesota State Highway 169. Attractions along the byway include Father Hennepin State Park, Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, views of the lake and Mille Lacs National Wildlife Refuge, and several historic sites.{{cite web |title=Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/lake-mille-lacs-scenic-byway/23823 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

File:Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway - Sioux Trail - Renville County 81 (35401640632).jpg]]

Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway is a {{convert|300|mi|adj=on}} highway following the Minnesota River from its source at Big Stone Lake to Belle Plaine. The route passes through several small riverside towns and access points to canoeing on the river. It also connects several historic sites related to the Dakota people and the Dakota War of 1862.{{cite web |title=Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/minnesota-river-valley-national-scenic-byway/9448 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|North Shore Scenic Drive}}

North Shore Scenic Drive is a {{convert|154|mi|adj=on}} route that follows the North Shore of Lake Superior between Duluth and Grand Portage. While much of the route is shared with Minnesota State Highway 61, it follows county highways which run closer to the lake along its southern portions. The byway links seven of Minnesota's state parks, Split Rock Lighthouse, historic sites related to the fishing and fur trading industries, and the Superior Hiking Trail.{{cite web |title=North Shore All-American Scenic Drive |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/north-shore-all-american-scenic-drive/2336 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Otter Trail Scenic Byway is a {{convert|150|mi|adj=on}} loop route in Otter Tail County. The route passes Glendalough State Park, Maplewood State Park, and hundreds of lakes. It also runs through several of the county's main cities, including the county seat of Fergus Falls, and historic sites.{{cite web |title=Otter Trail Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/otter-trail-scenic-byway/2332 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Paul Bunyan National Scenic Byway is a {{convert|54|mi|adj=on}} route through central Minnesota. The highway, which takes its name from the legend of Paul Bunyan, runs through an area with numerous lakes and connects the resort towns of Crosslake, Pequot Lakes, and Pine River. Recreational opportunities along the byway include fishing, cycling, hiking, and bird watching.{{cite web |title=Paul Bunyan National Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/paul-bunyan-scenic-byway/2335 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

File:Taylors Falls Minnesota downtown looking north MN95 St Croix Scenic Byway.jpg]]

Saint Croix Scenic Byway is a {{convert|124|mi|adj=on}} route that follows the St. Croix River, which forms part of Minnesota's eastern border. The route runs from U.S. Highway 10 near Hastings to Sandstone. The byway connects the flatter landscapes of southern Minnesota with the forested, hilly landscapes of northern Minnesota.{{cite web |title=St Croix Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/st-croix-scenic-byway/3073 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Shooting Star Scenic Byway is a {{convert|31|mi|adj=on}} route which follows part of Minnesota State Highway 56 in southern Minnesota. One of the first scenic byways designated for wildflower viewing, the route provides views of wildflowers and native grasses managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Lake Louise State Park and several small towns are along the byway.{{cite web |title=Shooting Star Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/shooting-star-scenic-byway/2329 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Skyline Parkway}}

File:Skyline View in Autumn.jpg

Skyline Parkway is a {{convert|28|mi|adj=on}} route overlooking Duluth and Lake Superior. The byway provides scenic views, birdwatching at Hawk Ridge, and access to mountain biking and hiking paths. Numerous waterfalls can be seen from the route.{{cite web |title=Skyline Parkway - Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/skyline-parkway-scenic-byway/2340 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Superior National Forest Scenic Byway}}

Superior National Forest Scenic Byway is a {{convert|61|mi|adj=on}} through the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. Passing through a sparsely populated area, the byway provides scenic forest views and access to hawk watching and boating sites. Historic sites such as the Toimi School and the Timber Arch Bridge can also be found along the route.{{cite web |title=Superior National Forest Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/superior-national-forest-scenic-byway/2344 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

{{main|Veterans Evergreen Memorial Scenic Drive}}

Veterans Evergreen Memorial Drive is a {{convert|50|mi|adj=on}} route following Minnesota State Highway 23 from Interstate 35 at Banning State Park to Duluth. The highway serves as a scenic bypass of Interstate 35 for travelers between the Twin Cities and Duluth. It also crosses several rivers and creeks with fishing and canoeing access.{{cite web |title=Veterans Evergreen Memorial Drive Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/veterans-evergreen-memorial-drive-scenic-byway/2328 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway runs for {{convert|229|mi}} near Minnesota's northern border, linking the North Dakota border with Voyageurs National Park. The western section of the byway, between North Dakota and Warroad follows the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail, which features birdwatching opportunities. The section from Warroad to Baudette passes through areas full of wildflowers, particularly lady slippers. A spur from Baudette connects the route to Zippel Bay State Park. East of Baudette, the route follows the Rainy River, a popular fishing site. The byway's name comes from a nickname for the Aurora Borealis, which can be seen from many points along the route.{{cite web |title=Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway |url=https://www.exploreminnesota.com/profile/waters-dancing-sky-scenic-byway/2337 |website=Explore Minnesota |publisher=Explore Minnesota Tourism |accessdate=March 1, 2020}}

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{{commons category|Minnesota Scenic Byways}}

• [https://www.dot.state.mn.us/scenicbyways/ Minnesota Scenic Byways]

{{Scenic Byways}}

Scenic byways

Minnesota