Winding through Minnesota’s southeastern corner, the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway offers 88 miles of breathtaking scenery where towering limestone bluffs rise dramatically above the Root River Valley. This National Scenic Byway follows MN 16 and US 14 from La Crescent along the Great River Road to Dexter at I-90, traversing some of the Midwest’s most stunning unglaciated terrain.

The journey reveals a landscape carved by ancient rivers—deep valleys, hidden caves, and forested ridges painted gold and crimson each autumn. Charming towns dot the route, including Lanesboro, a beloved destination for cycling the Root River State Trail, browsing art galleries, and catching live theater. Stop in Preston to explore Mystery Cave’s underground wonders or Harmony to discover its Amish heritage and handcrafted goods.

Watch for soaring bluffs that frame the horizon, trout streams threading through pastoral valleys, and historic stone buildings that whisper of immigrant settlers. Eagles circle overhead while wildflowers carpet spring meadows.

Best time to visit: Fall delivers spectacular foliage, though spring and summer offer lush greenery and ideal cycling weather.

Allow: A full day to savor the scenery and stops, or a leisurely weekend to truly explore this hidden gem of the heartland.

Explore Nearby

• Blufflands State Trail: Root River Segment — State Park in Minnesota
• Mississippi Blufflands State Trail — State Park in Minnesota
• Stonefield Village Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Wisconsin
• Wisconsin River Islands — Public Land in Wisconsin