Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway

A must-see area of Minnesota is picturesque Root River Valley where the Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway - Minnesota Highway 16 - is wrapped around for absolutely amazing views around each hill and curve. Heading east or west, the scenery is equally gratifying.

Wind your way across Southeastern Minnesota, by car, canoe, or kayak

The Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway runs from Dexter east and west to LeCrescent, Minnesota featuring some of the most scenic views in Southern Minnesota.

Green Gables Inn just happens to be located on County Highway 16, also known as Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, a beautiful trek that runs between LaCrescent and Dexter with a small loop on US-52 and MN-80 also connects Wykoff and Fountain. This Scenic Byway is one of the most quaint and tranquil drives in the entire state of Minnesota. This route was designated as a National Scenic Byway in 2002 for its wonderful scenic qualities, while also having plenty of historical significance and recreational opportunities. With scenic views throughout the entirety of this 88-mile-long Byway, there is no shortage of enjoyment that can be had while driving along this route. It follows the lush Root River Valley and winds through what feels like a landscape painting of woodsy hills and dramatic dolomite bluffs, often marked with the tranquil silhouette of a lone Amish buggy.

'Amish highways' are marked along Highway 52 that intersects Historic Bluff Country Scenic Byway 16. Amish shops that make and sell baked goods, candies, furniture, quilts, and other crafts are located around the Harmony, MN area a few miles south of the Scenic Byway along Highway 52.

Explore the Root River Trail by bike or car, stopping for pie at a classic pie shop in Whalen, or lunch in historic trail town Lanesboro for an overnight stay along the way. Like Labesboro, a number of towns towns and campgrounds have outfitters for kayak, canoe and tube rentals, as well as bike rentals.

Lanesboro is just one of many historic villages along the Bluff Country Scenic Byway. Biking, hiking, canoeing, and hiking are a few of many ways to enjoy the Root River that runs through Bluff Country out to the Great Mississippi River.

Bluff country is also a great place for fishing, with many trout streams winding through the area. At a state park, naturalists lead tours of Mystery Cave in Historic Forestville or Amish buggies are a common sight on these country roads. Green Gables Inn is just one of several charming boutique lodging options located on this Scenic Byway overlooking the Root River. It is one of a number of lodging options that run the gamut, from roadside Inns, to cozy B&Bs, to rustic hideaway cabins, to elegant retreats with specialty cuisine and rooms with expansive valley views.

Bluff Country in Minnesota offers amazing picturesque views like none other in Minnesota. It is a very unique area of the state featuring rivers and streams framed by towering mounts and rolling hills.

The Historic Scenic Byway Highway 16 is just one of 5 incredible must-see scenic drives in Southeastern Minnesota. Plan time to take them ALL in!

Sample Itinerary

A Scenic Byway Trip to Bluff Country

Starting from Route 16 in Dexter at an intersection with Interstate 90, the Historic Bluff Country Byway heads east for 88 miles up until the Mississippi River. It is essentially a straight shot along Route 16, passing by some of the most beautiful landscapes and historical areas in the entire state of Minnesota.

For your first stop, head into the city of Wykoff. Here you can travel the Wykoff Commercial Historic District, which has plenty of shops that have wonderful architecture. You can also visit the Historic Forestville Townsite, which was an early settlement in 1853. Continue on and drive through the forest for the rest of the way, stopping in the local towns of Lanesboro and Whalan that have historic districts.

The road from here on is running right along the root river, which provides incredible scenic views that are truly breathtaking. A great place to get out and explore is the Yucatan Valley, which is located right outside the city of Houston. There are walking and hiking trails galore located in this natural area, and the scenes are really wonderful. Once you get back on, you are nearing the end of your journey along this Byway. Your ending point is when this road meets the Mississippi River, which leads to many activities as well!