Fall isn’t the only time of year to for scenic drives in Minnesota. The state showcases its beauty all year long during every season – and there are many scenic drives near me, so I’m sure you’ll find at least a handful near you, as well. Since we all love to hit the road in search of the most epic views, here are some of the most beautiful scenes you will ever see in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

1. Try Minnesota Hwy. 30 around Itasca State Park for a lovely, winding route. It's certainly one of the most scenic drives in Minnesota.
Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Pk Dr, Park Rapids, MN 56470, USA
Flickr/Mark Evans
2. In Munger, the dirt roads can be absolutely breathtaking. Head from Duluth on Hwy 2 and hop on Munger Shaw Rd. to find a dirt road destination!
Munger, MN 55720, USA
Tony Webster/Flickr
3. Driving on MN 210 will absolutely give you some of the prettiest views around, and it's usually not too crowded!
East Highway 210, E Hwy 210, Carlton, MN, USA
laikolosse/Flickr
4. Superior National Forest Road 166 is both scenic and empty for a relaxing time in nature.
Superior National Forest, Stony River Township, MN 55731, USA
Flickr/Superior National Forest
5. On the way to Duluth take a detour over the Kettle River off Highway 73.
Hwy 73, Kettle River, MN, USA
Flickr/Michael Hicks
6. Just about any road to Duluth is bound to be gorgeous, just take any parallel to 35.
Duluth, MN, USA
Flickr/JFXie
7. Highway 61 along the North Shore cannot be beat for views year-round!
North Shore Scenic Drive, N Shore Scenic Dr, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
Flickr/Sharon Mollerus

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8. Another of the beloved Minnesota scenic byways is U.S. Highway 61 southeast of the Cities near Maple Springs for phenomenal river views and colorful bluffs, any of which make for perfect a road trip in Minnesota.
U.S. 61, Lake City, MN, USA
Flickr/Jerry Huddleston
9. Everyone's favorite northern MN driving destination is by far Gunflint Trail - and with good reason - the scenery is unforgettable!
Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA
Flickr/Tony Webster
The Gunflint Trail is especially beautiful in winter:

10. Driving up near Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth will provide sweeping views of the North Shore.
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve, E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
Andy Langager/Flickr
11. At the Veterans Evergreen Memorial Park overlook on Hwy. 23 you will get amazing panoramas of the surrounding Minnesota landscape.
Veterans Evergreen Memorial Park, Wrenshall, MN, USA
Jessica Brouillette/Google
12. And Highway 23 doesn't just mean the overlooks. Heading downhill the views are just as killer!
Minnesota 23, MN-23, Minnesota, USA
Flickr/Doug Kerr
13. South of the cities, explore around Owatonna for some endless views like this one. A quick trip off 35 is like going back in time!
Owatonna, MN, USA
Flickr/Nick Mealey
14. Of course you can't exclude the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway in Minneapolis which was made for driving and taking in the views!
Grand Rounds, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Flickr/Tony Webster

If there’s anything all these roads demonstrate, it’s that there is amazing scenery to be had all over this beautiful state! Where are some of your favorite scenic drives in Minnesota? Be sure to let us know in the comments.

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More to Explore

Country Roads In Minnesota

Melissa M. | May 21, 2021

What are the best road trips in Minnesota?

Minnesota is such a massive state so there are ample opportunities to take some epic road trips. As you may know, we like putting together themed road trips from time to time, and we have some suggestions for you. Take a look at this Waterfall Road Trip on the North Shore which will lead you to several incredible falls including Temperance River Falls, The Devil’s Kettle and Upper Falls, and the Cascades at Cascade River State Park. It will be a road trip of a lifetime! If you love a good fright, follow along on our Haunted Road Trip to check out places like Riverview Hall at St. Cloud University and The Warden’s House in Stillwater, both of which have spirits that make their presence known.

What are the best day trips to take in Minnesota?

Day trips are always an adventure and a great way to explore another part of your own state. One of the most scenic routes near me is the drive to the small town of Lanesboro is a perfect place to escape for the day with all it has to offer. Nestled in the hills by Root River, this charming town boasts a gorgeous waterfall, the Root River trail for some hiking and biking, tubing along the river, and plenty of shops and restaurants to peruse. Sibley State Park is another lovely place to spend the day with plenty of wildlife, 18 miles of hiking trails, an observation tower, a lake, and more! 

Are there any scenic train rides in Minnesota?

The North Shore Scenic Railroad offers train rides through some of the most gorgeous scenery around the state, running along a 28-mile historic route between Duluth and Two Harbors. Along the way, you’ll have epic views of Lake Superior, Duluth, and more. A dinner train ride is also offered along with special themed rides throughout the year.

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