The Best Fall Color Spots in SE Minnesota Are Worth the Drive

It always feels like we're waiting for the fall colors and then all of a sudden, BAM, the trees are brightly colored and beautiful! The changing leaves is one of the best things about fall in Minnesota, but sadly, weather that's nice enough to go admire the colors doesn't stick around for very long.

So while we have the chance, we have to get out and enjoy some leaf peeping. For that reason, I put together a list of the best places around SE Minnesota to see the stunning fall colors.

ALSO READ: One of America's Most Haunted Airbnb's is Right Here in Minnesota

When Will Fall Colors Peak in SE Minnesota

Before we get to the best places to go leaf peeping, when exactly are the fall colors going to be at peak this year?

I wrote about this almost a month ago and, according to the Minnesota DNR's Fall Color Finder map, fall colors should be peaking in SE Minnesota around the 17th and 18th of October. However, getting out this weekend wouldn't be a bad time to go. There are still plenty of colors and the weather will be amazing.

Whenever you do get out to see the fall colors, whether it's this weekend or at peak colors, consider checking out these spots in SE Minnesota for the best leaf peeping in the area.

(Hat tip to Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine and the Minnesota Reddit for some of these ideas.)

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Where to See the Best Fall Colors in SE Minnesota

Altura

The small town east of Rochester is home to one of my favorite state parks, Whitewater! The hiking trails can lead you to some incredible views above the trees, so being there for the fall colors would be incredible.

Lanesboro

Lanesboro is always featured for being a great little spot to visit, and visiting in the fall would be an amazing time to go. They've got cute shops and restaurants, plus the Root River Trail.

Red Wing

Right on the Mississippi River, seeing the fall colors would be beautiful here. Red Wing also has some great shops and restaurants, too. Plus, they're home to Memorial Park, where you can get some beautiful views of town and the Mississippi all in one.

Winona

Another town right on the Mississippi that's a must-stop in the fall is Winona. Winona has Sugar Loaf Bluff where you can get some insane views of the Mississippi and all of the fall colors.