Apple Blossom Drive Scenic Byway

The 17-mile byway travels County Rd 1 along the rolling farmland and bluff-top views high above the Mississippi River and passes through the towns of La Crescent and Nodine. No matter the season, the scenic beauty is unsurpassed.

At the top of the bluff just outside of La Crescent, is Apple Blossom Overlook Park. It has a striking view of the Mississippi River’s main shipping channel. Along the byway you’ll find yourself on the top of the bluffs near pull-offs that offer some of the most magnificent vistas in the region. At the “T” at Winona County Road 12, you have the choice of traveling east into Dakota or to the west heading to Nodine and to Great River Bluffs State Park. Great Bluffs State Park, provides lovers of the outdoors hiking and camping opportunities.

By looping around the park, travelers can return to La Crescent by way of Great River Road or Apple Blossom Scenic Drive. Either route provides picturesque panoramic views. In spring, the route is filled with the flowery fragrance and picturesque views of acres of apple blossoms.

In the fall, enjoy the area’s fall colors, and spend time at a ‘you-pick’ apple harvest. Take home some orchard honey, apple cider, Indian corn and pumpkins. Minnesota orchards have some of the most distinctive apple varieties in the country, thanks in large part to the University of Minnesota research center (responsible for introducing the popular Honeycrisp apple, Sweet Tango, First Kiss, among others).

Great River Road: Minnesota – Mississippi Bluffs

Great River Road is a designated National Scenic Byway that follows the route of the Mississippi River. Beginning at the headwaters, the Byway winds through the small towns of northern Minnesota and through the Twin Cities, and continues south along Highway 61 to La Crescent, then south to Iowa on Highway 26.

The “National Route” signs direct you on the official route of the Federal Highway Administration road. “State Alternate Signs” will take you off the beaten path along the river to points of interest. Don’t miss the chance to see majestic bald eagles soar between the river and the bluffs from Wabasha to La Crescent. This is the gateway to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. Plan your trip.

Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway

La Crescent marks the eastern most city on the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, which links together some of the most scenic, historic, cultural, natural, and recreational resources in the area. The 88-mile route extends from La Crescent through southeastern Minnesota’s picturesque Root River Valley. Prior to becoming Minnesota Trunk Highway 16, Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway was U.S. Highway 16 and the main route between Chicago and Yellowstone National Park.

The unique and dramatic land formations of the Root River Valley were formed over millions of years of geological activity. The resulting landscape is a region of deep river valleys, sinkholes, caves, and steep limestone bluffs. Visit bluffcountry.com for a complete list of cities and attractions to plan your trip. Bluff Country Scenic Byway Google Map.