These 7 Minnesota Roads Are Home To The Most Beautiful Winter Scenery
By Betsy Rathburn|Updated on November 19, 2022(Originally published November 14, 2022)
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Here in Minnesota, we tend to take most of our scenic drives in the summer and fall. And it makes sense: those are the best times to see the lush greenery and incredible autumn colors. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay at home through the rest of the year. In fact, there are many roads in Minnesota that are full of beautiful winter scenery. Read on to learn about the seven best, most outrageously scenic drives in Minnesota to experience the beauty of the winter season.
No matter which part of Highway 61 you travel, you are guaranteed scenic views regardless of the season. In winter, drivers can expect roads that wind around the snow-covered bluffs of southeastern Minnesota. And along the North Shore, Highway 61 offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior covered in ice and snow. We're not entirely sure that there's anything more peaceful than doing this drive with some low-key jazz in the background, but the music choice is ultimately up to you.
2. Glacial Ridge Trail
Glacial Ridge Trail, Glacial Rdg Trl, Willmar, MN 56201, USA
This 220-mile trail cuts through central Minnesota. This area of the state was once covered in an enormous glacier that cut out river valleys still evident today. As you travel along the trail, pay attention to the dips and curves of the land around you. Covered in snow, it is a beautiful view. Come enjoy one of the most beautiful drives in Minnesota this season! You could easily turn this one into a road trip if you wanted to - there are lots of places to stop and admire along the way.
The Gunflint Trail may be the most beautiful winter drive in all of Minnesota. The thick forests of northern Minnesota never look more breathtaking covered in snow, and the slower traffic makes for a peaceful drive you'll want to repeat every year.
The Great River Road is a 2,000-mile route that spans from Minnesota all the way down to Louisiana. While they may not get any snow along the route down south, winter in Minnesota brings beautiful views along this scenic drive. You'll travel alongside the Mississippi River with great views of bluffs and icy water alike.
5. Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway
Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, Grand Rounds Scenic Bywy, Minneapolis, MN, USA
If you'd prefer a more urban scenic drive, look no further than Grand Rounds. This path through some of the most scenic parts of Minneapolis is absolutely beautiful in the winter. City lakes, lovely trees, and impressive homes are all in store for those who take this drive. And covered in snow, it only gets prettier. Embark upon the amazing Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway for the time of your life.
6. Superior National Forest Scenic Byway
Superior National Forest Scenic Byway, Superior Nat'l Forest Scenic Bywy, Hoyt Lakes, MN, USA
The sound dampening effect of snow is perhaps more obvious in Superior National Forest than in anywhere else in Minnesota. The tall, thick stands of trees in this wilderness area are a sight to behold, especially because this scenic road is much quieter in the winter. Should you choose to stop the car for a closer look, you'll be treated with peace and quiet from every direction.
7. St. Croix Scenic Byway
St Croix Scenic Byway, 25156 St Croix Trail N, Shafer, MN 55074, USA
This scenic byway travels through eastern Minnesota along the St. Croix River. Along its southern stretches, you'll catch beautiful views of the icy river surrounded in snow-blanketed trees. As you the road winds north, you'll pass through many small towns that offer a charming and scenic beauty all their own. The Superior National Forest is incredibly beautiful when covered in snow.
These scenic drives in MN are beautiful year-round. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out; you don’t want to be caught in a storm far away from home! After all, winter in Minnesota can definitely get cold… and snowy! Where are your favorite winter scenic drives? How many did we miss or leave out? Feel free to let us know in the comments section!
If you can’t get enough of our amazing winters, there are plenty of awesome things to do in Minnesota during the winter season. Among our favorite things to do in MN in the winter are visiting Lake Superior in all its splendor, or perhaps a visit to the snowiest city in Minnesota is in order! Tell us all about what you love to do when it’s cold.
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