Emerald green swatches of staggering natural wonder laced with cobalt blue swatches of stunning lakes, epic rivers, and wandering streams. World class cities punctuated by sublime country roads that weave through a nearly endless array of forests filled with maple, oak, spruce, and cedar. Forests that, by the way, turn some of the most ethereal colors that nature has to offer.
Are we talking about a far-reaching corner of Europe? No, folks, we’re talking about the great state of Minnesota, and we’re here to tell you that this beautiful Upper Midwestern state is one of the most visually stunning states in our great nation, and happens to also be hiding some of the finest driving roads out there.
Our team of supercar experience masters were recently scouting locations for the next Open Road supercar tour, and we found ourselves so smitten with this beautiful state that we wanted to showcase some of the best driving roads in the land of 10,000 lakes.
We can’t wait to tell you all about them!
The Great River Road
Officially designated as one of America’s All-American Roads, The Great River Road is as epic as the Mississippi River that gives this amazing road it’s name.
Winding through a staggering 10 states, with a total length of 2,069 miles; the The Great River Road follows the mighty Mississippi river through a collection of local roads, vistas, and parkways. Minnesota happens to have one of the most stunning sections of The Great River Road, and owns the humble designation of being connected to the origin point of the Mississippi River at the headwaters in Northern Minnesota. Spanning 565 miles, and running through 43 communities, 20 counties, and three tribes; the The Great River Road offers up 6 distinct regions and experiences.
From desolate forests, and stunning bluffs, to the urban metropolis of the Twin Cities, there’s so much that the Great River Road has to offer for drivers who are willing to take the meandering, soul enriching ride.
North Shore Scenic Drive
Owning the distinction as yet another All-American Road, the North Shore Scenic drive offers a stunning experience that meanders along the rugged, limestone cliffs of Lake Superior.
Running for 145 miles in total length, the North Shore Scenic Drive will give you an authentic Minnesota experience punctuated by mother nature’s finest. Begin the journey in Duluth, and wind your way along past quaint villages, and traditional shops selling regional specialties like smoked fish. Stop along incredible sites like the breathtaking Gooseberry Falls, and explore a hundred year old lighthouse that’s perched precariously over mighty Lady Superior. Other can’t miss sites include Palisade Point with it’s stunning limestone cliffs, perched high over the icy blue waters.
Northern Minnesota is a natural wonderland that often feels a bit more unexplored than other parts of the state, and the North Shore Scenic drive does not disappoint.
Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway
A list of the best Minnesota driving roads would not be complete without a road that winds adventuring souls through nature’s time of transition and splendor: the fall.
Although there are plenty of places to see the stunning fall colors of Minnesota, perhaps none more embody the spirit of the past and present quite like the Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway. Native Minnesotans have enjoyed the annual activity of taking a drive around the second largest inland lake in the state since the car was invented, but in 2019, this beautiful road received a designation as one of America’s great Scenic Byways. Must see sites along the 68 mile route include Mille Lacs Kathio State Park, complete with a 100 foot observation tower, and exhibits about the native Ojibwe people of the region.
Although the entire region is beyond stunning, the 18-mile stretch between Garrison and Malmo at the North side of Lake MIlle Lacs is by far the most stunning, and unforgettable in this legendary Fall destination.
Come Drive A Supercar In The Land Of 10,000 Lakes
Minnesota is one of the most stunningly beautiful states in the country, and it also happens to have some of the most pristine driving roads to go along with the scenic wonder. What better way to experience the true splendor and might of the region than behind the wheel of a bonafide supercar? Open Road puts the keys in your hand and takes you on a guided experience through the stunning sites and sounds of Minnesota while you control the power and precision of a machine that’s built to thrill the soul.
Sounds incredible? We thought so too. We’ll see you on the Open Road!
Loved reading about Minnesota’s roads? Check out our other blogs about the best driving roads!
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