Have you explored the Great River Road? Fall is the perfect time for a scenic drive or weekend trip.
The Great River Road is a scenic byway that follows the Upper Mississippi River Valley through 10 states from northern Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico! The Minnesota portion along HWY 61, and HWY 35 on the Wisconsin side offer breathtaking river bluff views. It’s a great area to meander along the Mississippi River and stop at the charming small towns along the way.
A few years ago Ryan and I took a trip along the Minnesota & Wisconsin Great River Road through Red Wing, Stockholm, Lake City, Pepin, and Wabasha. This year, we ventured further south and added a few more stops to our repertoire including Nelson, Alma, Fountain City, and Winona.
It takes about 45 minutes from the Twin Cities to reach Prescot, Wisconsin. That is where (in my opinion) the trip along the Great River Road truly begins. The drive is very scenic, especially as you enter the “driftless region” which spans southwestern Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota. Fun fact: earth flattening glaciers missed this area during the last ice age, which explains the rolling landscape, steep forested ridges, and deeply carved river valleys. This is what makes it such a beautiful place to visit … and arguably more picturesque then our beloved North Shore, MN (yep, I said it!).
Besides the natural beauty, another great attraction in this region is The Great River Road Wine Trail. Yes, this area is home to our very own wine country! Okay, so it’s no Napa Valley … but many of these vineyards are quaintly nestled in bluffs or so beautifully designed that at least for a moment you don’t feel like you are in the Midwest.
I want to hear from you! Comment below if you have ever been along the Great River Road. If so, what was your favorite stop?
Safe Travels,
SS
6 Comments
Sari, I couldn’t agree more! I just did this a few weekends ago on a motorcycle. I love Alma—we used to visit as kids. So many cute and charming little towns along the way.
Yes, love it! Alma is the cutest!
I went to collage in winona, and.i loved the drive to and from the cities! There are lots of pretty places to hike- I especially liked walking down by the river and watching the barges and seeing all the cool houseboats!
Such a beautiful drive, and yes so fun to see all the action on the water!
I will have to check that out sometime. It looks amazing !!
Yes, it would be such a fun getaway for you and Brad … or a fun weekend trip with the kiddos!