"I'm so glad that I live in a world where there are Octobers" comes from the book Anne of Green Gables by  L.M. Montgomery. Each year as we settle into autumn and the calendar changes to October, the trees burst with color. If you're hoping to get out and take a drive to see fall in all its glory, Explore Minnesota has put together a list of 10 drives you might want to consider! 

Explore Minnesota is referring to these drives as rainbow routes, and all are sure to be a great way to spend part of a day. They've put together a list of ten drives you might enjoy!

  1. North Shore of Lake Superior Route: Highway 61, Duluth to Grand Portage. Waterfalls, lake and scenic overlooks all combine to create a beautiful drive.
    Peak color: mid-September to early October
  2. Iron Range Loop Route: Highway 169 from Virginia to Tower, Highway 135 through Biwabik back to Virginia. You could also check out a mine, two golf courses and a new bike trail.
    Peak color: mid-September to early October
  3. Edge of the Wilderness Route: Highway 38, Grand Rapids to Bigfork. A scenic byway, national forest and state park are all easily accessible with this path.
    Peak color: mid-September to early October
  4. Mississippi Headwaters Route: Highway 71 between Park Rapids and Bemidji, plus numerous other roads around these towns. While in the area, don't miss seeing the start of the Mississippi.
    Peak color: mid-September to early October
  5. Otter Tail County Route: Highways 108 and 78, and numerous county roads. Two state parks and a historic mill add to the scenery.
    Peak color: late September to early October
  6. Brainerd Lakes and Mille Lacs Route: Highways 371 and 6, and the county roads between them, plus Highway 169. If you need to stretch your legs from being in the car, take a walk or bike ride down Paul Bunyan Trail.
    Peak color: late September to early October
  7. St. Croix River Valley Route: Highway 95 from Taylors Falls to Afton. Four state parks and several charming towns make this a fun adventure.
    Peak color: late September to mid-October
  8. Twin Cities Touring Route: Parkways around Minneapolis lakes, along Minnehaha Creek, Mississippi and Summit Avenue. Close to home with stunning views.
    Peak color: late September to mid-October
  9. Mississippi River Valley Route: Highway 61 between Red Wing and La Crescent. Bluffs and beautiful farmland made this a lovely drive.
    Peak color: Mid-October
  10. Minnesota River Drive Route: County Road 6 and Highway 93 from Belle Plaine to Le Sueur, then Highway 169 to Mankato, then Highway 68 to New Ulm. Following the river, this path showcases lovely colors.
    Peak color: late September to mid-October

Do you follow one of these routes, or do you have a different path you like to travel?

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