Posted in Minnesota Road Trips January 25, 2023 by

Stock Up On Amish Goodies At Roadside Market Baked Goods and Baskets, Then Enjoy The Minnesota Countryside Along Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway

When you combine a scenic Minnesota drive through the state’s Bluff Country with home-baked treats from an Amish market, you know you’re in for a good day. So, grab the keys, hop in the car and head for southeastern Minnesota.

Start your journey in Canton, near the Iowa border, where you'll find Roadside Market Baked Goods and Baskets.
Nick G/Google
The area around Canton and Harmony has the largest Amish community in the state.
There, you'll load up on delectable delights like bread and cookies in preparation for your upcoming drive.
Michelle Behne/Google
From Canton, head north on 52 toward Preston, where you'll turn east onto the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway (MN-16).
Roadside Market Baked Goods And Baskets, 12668 US-52, Canton, MN 55922, USA
The byway follows the Root River Valley. You'll pass through the charming towns of Rushford and Lanesboro.
Management/TripAdvisor
Before you reach Houston, take a southward jaunt and stretch your legs at ​​Beaver Creek Valley State Park.
Beaver Creek Valley State Park, County Road 1, Caledonia, MN, USA
When in Houston, consider stopping in at the International Owl Center, if you wish.
International Owl Center/Facebook
Be sure to stay for a bit and explore ​​all the charming town has to offer.
International Owl Center, 126 E Cedar St, Houston, MN 55943, USA
As you wind your way through the valley, stop and explore off trail, getting up close and personal with the bluffs the Driftless Area is renowned for. Mound Prairie Scientific and Natural Area has no designated trails, but it is open for exploration.
Matthew Lukas/Google
Visit the ​​DNR's SNA website for a map of the area and for the rules regarding SNA visitation.
Mound Prairie Scientific and Natural Area (SNA), T-260, Houston, MN 55943, USA
You'll reach the Mississippi River and its massive bluffs and valley near LaCrescent.
EasternShoreTraveler/TripAdvisor
Follow U.S. Route 61 northward toward Winona, and follow the signs to ​​Great River Bluffs State Park. There, you'll end your journey with a short hike (or longer if you prefer) and enjoy sweeping views across the river valley to Wisconsin.
Great River Bluffs State Park, Kipp Drive, Winona, MN, USA

While this drive is stunning pretty much any time of the year, you may particularly appreciate it in the autumn when the hardwood foliage will be popping along the valleys of the Root and Mississippi Rivers. Apart from delicious baked goods and other food, another tradition that makes this area awesome for an adventure is its beer and winemaking.

Have you visited Roadside Market Baked Goods and Baskets and/or driven the Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway? What other scenic drives do you enjoy in Minnesota?

Address: Roadside Market Baked Goods And Baskets, 12668 US-52, Canton, MN 55922, USA
Address: Beaver Creek Valley State Park, County Road 1, Caledonia, MN, USA
Address: Great River Bluffs State Park, Kipp Drive, Winona, MN, USA
Address: International Owl Center, 126 E Cedar St, Houston, MN 55943, USA
Address: Mound Prairie Scientific and Natural Area (SNA), T-260, Houston, MN 55943, USA

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