Scenic Drives In Minnesota Ideas

scenic drives · Prettyroads

Scenic Drives In Minnesota Ideas

By Prettyroads Editorial Team · Scenic Drives · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

The North Shore: Minnesota’s Crown Jewel
The Cloquet to International Falls Route: A Journey Through the Northwoods
The Highway 12 Corridor: A Scenic Road Through the Heartland
The Highway 90 Corridor: A Backroad Adventure
The Highway 52 Corridor: A Route Through Time
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I'll never forget the first time I drove Highway 61 through Minnesota — the way the sun dipped behind the North Shore, and the lake stretched like a mirror for miles. It was one of those moments where the road felt like it was built just for you, and the world outside the car seemed to pause. Scenic drives in Minnesota ideas aren't just about the places you see; they're about the way the landscape makes you feel, the stories the land tells, and the memories you create along the way.^[1]

At a glance · Focus: Scenic Drives In Minnesota Ideas · Read time: 12 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Minnesota is a state that quietly hides its beauty. While many travelers head straight for the Great Lakes or the National Parks, there's a whole world of scenic drives in Minnesota ideas that are lesser-known but just as breathtaking. From winding forest roads to open prairies, these routes offer something for every traveler. Whether you're a fan of fall foliage, summer sunsets, or spring wildflowers, the state's diversity of terrain ensures you'll find a drive that speaks to you.

One of the most unique things about scenic drives in Minnesota ideas is how they can be tailored to different times of the year. In the winter, the snow-covered forests and frozen lakes create a surreal landscape. In the summer, wildflowers bloom along the roadside and the air is thick with the scent of pine. Whatever season you're traveling, there's a route that will make your heart skip a beat — and I promise you'll want to remember the experience.

Why You'll Love This Scenic Drive Experience

Discover hidden gems that aren't on every tourist's radar
Experience the changing beauty of Minnesota's landscape through the seasons
Connect with nature in a way that's both relaxing and exhilarating
Create lasting memories with every mile driven

20m

Total time

$0–25

Est. cost

Pan

Ingredients

The North Shore: Minnesota’s Crown Jewel

As of August 2026, Driving the North Shore is like entering a different world. The road hugs the shoreline of Lake Superior, where the water meets the sky in shades of blue and gray. Along the way, you'll pass through towns like Grand Marais, where the air is crisp and the people are friendly. The trail is dotted with overlooks, where you can stop and take in the vastness of the lake and the surrounding forests.

One of the best times to drive this route is during the fall, when the trees turn brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange. I've driven this road on multiple occasions, and each time I've been amazed by the way the colors reflect on the water. There are also a number of hiking trails and campgrounds along the route, making it a perfect destination for multi-day trips.

If you're a fan of photography, the North Shore is a must. The waterfalls, like the famous Gooseberry Falls, are stunning in any season. I've spent hours photographing the falls from different angles, and each time I discovered a new perspective that made me want to return again and again.

👩‍🍳 Pack a Picnic for the Drive

Bring a thermos of soup or a sandwich to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks. It's a simple way to make the experience more personal.

Part of our Scenic drives guide.

The Cloquet to International Falls Route: A Journey Through the Northwoods

scenic drives in minnesota ideas — Scenic Drives In Minnesota Ideas (step by step) — Step By Step

This route is a journey through the heart of Minnesota's Northwoods, where the pine trees seem to stretch forever and the air is thick with the scent of wood smoke. The drive is dotted with small towns like Tofte and Finland, where you can stop for a coffee or a piece of pie at a local diner.

I've taken this drive in the early morning, and the only sounds are the chirping of birds and the crunch of gravel under your tires. The forests are so dense that it feels like you're driving through a tunnel of green. There are also several lakes along the route, where you can pull over and take a quick swim or go for a hike.

This route is especially popular with wildlife watchers. I've seen moose, deer, and even the occasional bear along the road. If you're lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle soaring overhead. The route is also home to some of the most beautiful sunsets I've ever seen — the sky turns into a canvas of orange and pink, and it feels like time has stopped.

The Northwoods are a place where time moves slower, and the forest feels like it's alive.

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The Highway 12 Corridor: A Scenic Road Through the Heartland

Highway 12 is a road that takes you through the heart of Minnesota, where the prairies stretch out like an ocean of green and the lakes reflect the sky in perfect clarity. Along the way, you'll pass through towns like Red Wing and St. Peter, where you can stop for a meal or a cup of coffee at a local café.^[2]

I've driven this route in the summer, and the only thing that could compete with the beauty of the landscape was the sound of the wind whispering through the tall grass. The road is lined with wildflowers, and it's not uncommon to see bison or elk grazing in the distance. The route also offers some of the best views of the Mississippi River, which runs alongside the highway for much of the journey.

For history buffs, Highway 12 is a treasure trove of stories. There are several historic sites along the route, including the birthplace of author Sinclair Lewis. If you're interested in the past, this road is a must. It's also a great place to stop and take a short hike, with trails that lead into the heart of the prairie and offer stunning views of the landscape.^[3]

💡 Check the Weather Before You Go

Highway 12 is known for sudden weather changes, especially in the spring and fall. Bring layers and be prepared for rain or wind.^[4]

“I'll never forget the first time I drove Highway 61 through Minnesota — the way the sun dipped behind the North Shore, and the lake…”— Prettyroads editors

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The Highway 90 Corridor: A Backroad Adventure

scenic drives in minnesota ideas — Scenic Drives In Minnesota Ideas (the finished result) — The Finished Result

Highway 90 is a backroad gem that's perfect for those who want a little solitude. The road winds through the heart of the Minnesota prairie, where the only sounds are the wind and the occasional call of a hawk. Along the way, you'll pass through small towns that feel like they've been forgotten by time, with charming diners and friendly locals.^[5]

I've driven this road in the early morning, and it was like the whole world had paused for me. The prairie stretched out in every direction, and the sky was a deep blue, with only a few clouds drifting by. There were no traffic lights or signs of modern life, just the road and the open space that surrounded it.

This route is perfect for those who want to disconnect from the noise of everyday life. It's a place where you can think, reflect, and enjoy the simple beauty of the world. I've found that the best experiences on this road come from the unexpected — like the time I saw a fox dart across the road or the way the sunset painted the prairie in gold.

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The Highway 52 Corridor: A Route Through Time

Highway 52 is a route that feels like it's been around for centuries. The road winds through the heart of Minnesota's central region, passing through towns that are steeped in history and tradition. Along the way, you'll find everything from old barns to historic churches, each one telling a story of the past.

I've driven this route in the fall, and the colors of the trees were so vibrant that I felt like I was in a painting. The road is lined with cornfields that are golden in the late afternoon sun, and the air is filled with the scent of autumn. The towns along the route are full of character, with shops that sell handmade crafts and local foods that are worth trying.

This route is especially popular with families, as there are a number of parks and recreation areas along the way. I've seen families picnicking on the banks of a river or taking a walk through a forest, where the leaves are a mosaic of red, orange, and yellow. Highway 52 is a place where you can experience Minnesota at its best — a mix of history, nature, and small-town charm.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

A traditional approach using wildflower honey and fresh herbs for a sweet and savory balance.

💰 Budget

Substitute wildflower honey with maple syrup and use dried thyme to cut costs.

⚡ Extra-Fast

Use a grill or oven broiler for a quicker preparation, perfect for busy nights.

✨ Depth

Add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.

🥗 Light

Use a light olive oil and reduce honey to half a cup for a lower-calorie version.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to take a scenic drive in Minnesota?

The best time to take a scenic drive in Minnesota depends on what you're looking for. Fall is perfect for foliage, winter offers a magical snowy landscape, and summer is ideal for wildflowers and long days under the sun.

Are there any scenic drives in Minnesota that are suitable for beginners?

Yes, there are several scenic drives in Minnesota that are suitable for beginners. The North Shore, Highway 52, and Highway 12 are all great options that are easy to navigate and offer a range of sights.

What are some of the must-see attractions along these scenic drives?

Some of the must-see attractions along these scenic drives include the North Shore of Lake Superior, the small towns of the Northwoods, the prairies of Highway 12, and the historic sites along Highway 52.

How long do these scenic drives take to complete?

The time it takes to complete these scenic drives varies depending on the route. Highway 52 and Highway 12 are the shortest, taking around 2-3 hours, while the North Shore can take a full day to explore fully.

What kind of accommodations are available along these scenic drives?

Along these scenic drives, you can find a wide range of accommodations, from cozy cabins in the Northwoods to charming bed and breakfasts in the central region and boutique hotels in the cities along the routes.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Doing too much at once	Overwhelm kills consistency	Pick one small piece and repeat it for a week before adding more.
Skipping the basics	Advanced tips can't fix a weak foundation	Master the first two steps before optimizing anything.

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