5 Southeast Minnesota Scenic Drives You Should Take

It's summer time, a perfect time to do a little off-roading - or just enjoy the beautiful outdoors!

Southeast Minnesota has a ton of scenic drives right in our area, that are perfect for either occasion. You should definitely check these off of your travel bucket list, if you haven't already.

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One of my favorite areas to tear up and enjoy is the Whitewater Valley, which is a popular favorite, but there are so many more than that.

Fall in Rochester
Fall in Rochester
1
Douglas To Mantorville
This area is definitely a must see, any time of the year... but Fall especially!
2
Harmony To Niagara Cave
On the way to this "must do" family exploration spot, you'll be pretty much taking beautiful backroads exclusively.
Niagara cave explains, "2.5 miles south on Minnesota 1+39 (aka Main Avenue), then 2.5 miles west on county 30 and watch for signs."
3
Forestville
Coincidentally, this spot also leads you to one of Minnesota's best state parks, which happens to include a cave.
Forestville Mystery Cave combines an awesome outdoor excursion, with a blast from the past, because you see old Forestville as it was built in the 1800s.
You take LOTS of backroads to get there.
4
Highway 60
Nestled near Mankato, you can find beautiful stretches of country between there and Rochester.
Peter Wong Photography
Peter Wong Photography
5
Whitewater Valley
When you step out of the car, you can enjoy some beautiful hiking at Whitewater State Park, and it's all less than an hour away from Rochester. Until then, enjoy the views on the way!

Filed Under: backroads, Minnesota, Rochester, scenic drives, southeast

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