The Scenic Splendour of Minnesota’s North Shore and Mississippi River Roads

Few road trips in the United States rival the breathtaking beauty of the North Shore Drive along Lake Superior and the southern Mississippi River. These routes showcase a harmonious blend of rugged natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventure, making them ideal for both seasoned travellers and casual explorers.

The North Shore: A symphony of water and wilderness – Stretching from Duluth to Grand Portage, the North Shore Drive hugs the western edge of Lake Superior, the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. This 154-mile stretch offers an ever-changing panorama of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense boreal forests. Every turn reveals a scene more picturesque than the last, whether it’s the shimmering expanse of the lake or the striking hues of flora and fauna.

Don’t miss:

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park: A symbol of Minnesota’s maritime heritage, this iconic lighthouse sits atop a 130-foot cliff. You can tour the restored buildings, hike along the rugged shoreline, or simply enjoy the panoramic views.
Gooseberry Falls State Park: Known for its series of stunning waterfalls, this park invites you to explore well-maintained trails and picnic spots amidst the soothing sounds of rushing water.
Lutsen Mountains: For adventure enthusiasts, Lutsen offers year-round activities, including skiing in the winter and gondola rides providing sweeping views of the lake and surrounding forest.

The Mississippi River Drive: A journey through time – In southern Minnesota, the Great River Road traces the Mississippi River’s meandering course, offering an entirely different yet equally captivating experience. This section of the drive, particularly between Red Wing and Winona, is renowned for its lush river valleys, towering bluffs, and quaint river towns steeped in history.

Don’t miss:

Red Wing: Nestled among bluffs, this historic town is famed for its pottery and Red Wing Shoes. Nearby, Barn Bluff provides a short but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the river and town below.
Wabasha: Home to the National Eagle Center, Wabasha is a prime spot for observing bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Winoma: Known as the “Island City,” Winona boasts a rich cultural scene, including the Minnesota Marine Art Museum and numerous festivals celebrating art and music.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the open roads of Minnesota. Whether you prefer the freedom of a self-drive tour or the convenience of a motorhome journey, we have options tailored to suit your travel style. Our sixteen-night fly drive package allows you to discover Minnesota’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming small towns at your own pace. Alternatively, our ten-night motorhome itinerary offers the perfect blend of comfort and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in wildlife and nature while enjoying the convenience of your home on wheels.

Private Consultations

We appreciate that you all lead busy lives so we are happy to chat through your holiday plans either by telephone or email or, we would happily arrange a face-to-face meeting in our private office suite here in Leeds or in your home or office at a time/date convenient to you. We could also set up a video-meeting if that's your preference. A tailored holiday itinerary to suit your requirements can be complex so face-to-face discussions are often advantageous.

Superior Deluxe	Among the finest the world has to offer, hotels in this category are exclusive, lavish and indulgent. Needless to say, you will enjoy the highest service levels, superb accommodation and outstanding facilities and public areas.
Deluxe	This will be an outstanding hotel, offering many of the features of Superior Deluxe, though on a scale which will be a little less grand.
Moderate Deluxe	This will be a Deluxe standard property, although some of the accommodation and public areas may offer a less pronounced degree of luxury. In other instances, the hotel may be a famous name with a well-established reputation.
Superior First Class	More often than not, this will be a superior modern hotel or an older property which is exceptionally well maintained. All offer very comfortable and well-furnished accommodation and public areas.
First Class	A dependable and comfortable hotel with standardised rooms. These are the ideal choice for travellers who don not require deluxe facilities or special services.
Moderate First Class	Essentially a First Class hotel with comfortable but sometimes simple accommodations. Public areas may be limited but generally provides all the essentials a guest requires.
Superior Tourist Class
Tourist Class
Dude Ranch
Resort Ranch
Working Ranch

Superior Deluxe

Among the finest the world has to offer, hotels in this category are exclusive, lavish and indulgent. Needless to say, you will enjoy the highest service levels, superb accommodation and outstanding facilities and public areas.

Deluxe

This will be an outstanding hotel, offering many of the features of Superior Deluxe, though on a scale which will be a little less grand.

Moderate Deluxe

This will be a Deluxe standard property, although some of the accommodation and public areas may offer a less pronounced degree of luxury. In other instances, the hotel may be a famous name with a well-established reputation.

Superior First Class

More often than not, this will be a superior modern hotel or an older property which is exceptionally well maintained. All offer very comfortable and well-furnished accommodation and public areas.

First Class

A dependable and comfortable hotel with standardised rooms. These are the ideal choice for travellers who don not require deluxe facilities or special services.

Moderate First Class

Essentially a First Class hotel with comfortable but sometimes simple accommodations. Public areas may be limited but generally provides all the essentials a guest requires.

Superior Tourist Class

Tourist Class

Dude Ranch

Resort Ranch

Working Ranch

The Scenic Splendour of Minnesota’s North Shore and Mississippi River Roads

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The Scenic Splendour of Minnesota’s North Shore and Mississippi River Roads

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