Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway
Plan Your Drive on the National Scenic Byway
Discover the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway along Highway 16 in Southeast Minnesota. Explore scenic bluffs, small towns like Lanesboro, trout streams, Amish country, caves, and year-round outdoor adventures on this 88-mile National Scenic Byway.
🌄 Experience Southeast Minnesota’s Scenic Drive
The Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway is a breathtaking drive through the rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and river valleys of Southeast Minnesota.
Stretching along Highway 16, the byway connects a string of welcoming small towns—including Lanesboro—that showcase the culture, heritage, and natural beauty of Bluff Country.
Travelers along the route encounter a mix of scenic overlooks, Amish farms, trout streams, and historic sites that tell the story of this unique region. The drive offers four-season appeal: spring wildflowers, summer biking and paddling, brilliant fall foliage, and serene winter landscapes. Whether you’re exploring on two wheels, by car, or on foot, the Bluff Country Byway is an invitation to slow down, take in the scenery, and discover the charm of Minnesota’s Driftless Area.
Designated both a Minnesota Scenic Byway and a National Scenic Byway, this route is more than just a drive—it’s a journey through the history, culture, and landscapes that define Bluff Country. From hidden valleys to welcoming communities, every mile invites you to slow down and experience the Driftless Region at its finest.
Scenic Byway At-a-Glance
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Route: Minnesota State Highway 16
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Length: ~88 miles
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Endpoints: La Crescent (Mississippi River) to Dexter (I-90)
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Highlights:
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Root River State Trail (bike, hike, ski)
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Niagara Cave & Mystery Cave
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Designation: Minnesota Scenic Byway & National Scenic Byway
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Best Seasons to Visit: Year-round, with peak fall color in late September to mid-October