5 Scenic Motorcycle Rides in Minnesota

Minnesota’s diverse landscape offers motorcyclists a wealth of scenic routes, from winding roads along the Mississippi River to breathtaking views of Lake Superior. The North Star State boasts an extensive network of well-maintained highways and byways that showcase its natural beauty. Enjoy our list of our top 5 motorcycle rides in Minnesota.

1. The North Shore Drive

The North Shore Drive, Minnesota Highway 61, stretches 154 miles along Lake Superior from Duluth to the Canadian border. This iconic route takes riders through charming coastal towns, past rocky cliffs, and alongside the world’s largest freshwater lake. The road hugs the shoreline, offering constant views of Lake Superior’s vast expanse.

Riders encounter numerous attractions along the way, including Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and the quaint harbor town of Grand Marais. The route features sweeping curves and gentle hills, allowing motorcyclists to immerse themselves fully in the scenery.

2. The Bluff Country Scenic Byway

Winding through southeastern Minnesota’s picturesque Bluff Country, this 88-mile route takes riders through a landscape of rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and charming river towns. The byway follows Highway 16 from La Crescent to Dexter, offering a diverse riding experience.

Motorcyclists navigate sweeping curves and elevation changes through the Root River Valley. The route showcases Minnesota’s agricultural heritage, with scenic farmland interspersed among forested hillsides. Quaint towns like Lanesboro and Preston offer perfect stops for refreshments and local culture.

3. The Gunflint Trail

For those seeking a more remote adventure, the Gunflint Trail provides a 57-mile journey into Minnesota’s northern wilderness. This paved road begins in Grand Marais and heads northwest, deep into the Superior National Forest.

As riders progress along the trail, civilization gradually gives way to pristine forests and crystal-clear lakes. The route offers glimpses of wildlife, including moose, bears, and wolves. While the road itself features gentle curves, the surrounding wilderness creates a sense of adventure and solitude.

4. The Great River Road

Following the mighty Mississippi River, the Great River Road in Minnesota offers a 575-mile journey from the river’s headwaters at Lake Itasca to the Iowa border. While the entire route can be spread over several days, even a portion of this scenic byway provides an unforgettable ride.

The road winds through a diverse landscape, from northern pine forests to the bluff country of southeastern Minnesota. Riders pass through historic river towns, each with its unique character. The route offers constant views of the Mississippi, with numerous overlooks providing panoramic river valley vistas.

5. The Otter Trail Scenic Byway

This 150-mile loop in west-central Minnesota takes riders through a landscape of rolling hills, forests, and countless lakes. The byway forms a rough circle, connecting the towns of Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, Perham, and Battle Lake.

The route showcases Minnesota’s famous lake country, with opportunities to view wildlife and enjoy the serene beauty of the region. Riders encounter a mix of gentle curves and straight stretches, allowing for a relaxed pace to appreciate the surroundings.

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