The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Minnesota That Showcases Forests, Lakes, And Wildflowers

The Avenue of Pines is a 46-mile Minnesota scenic byway that winds through the Chippewa National Forest in the northern part of the state. This lesser-known route will take you through towering forests, along lakes, rivers, and creeks, and in spring and summer, it's all punctuated with splashes of wildflower colors. It's one of my favorite drives in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, so pack up the car, and let me show you why!

The Avenue of Pines follows Minnesota Hwy. 46 through the Chippewa National Forest.

The byway runs 46 miles - hence it's number designation - ​​between Deer River and Northome.

Named for the mature red and white pines you'll find on this part of the forest, the scenic byway passes through some of the most pristine woods in this part of the state.

It also skirts massive Lake Winnibigoshish - the fourth largest lake that lies entirely within Minnesota's borders.

The nascent Mississippi River, whose headwaters are not far from the byway, passes through and gains considerable volume from the waters of Big Winnie.

Take your time to explore the area and stretch your legs along the trails that bisect the byway.

You'll find access to both the Simpson Creek and Cut Foot Sioux Trails along Avenue of Pines.

The historic Cut Foot Sioux Ranger Station is also in the area along Hwy. 46.

Built in 1904, it is one of the oldest Forest Service ranger stations still in existence and the oldest in the Eastern Region.

The area through which the byway passes is also geologically fascinating.

The Laurentian - or Northern - Divide intersects the Avenue of Pines just south of Squaw Lake. It is the dividing line between the Hudson Bay and Mississippi River drainage basins.

As you approach Northome, you'll be near The Lost 40.

Now preserved and co-managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Minnesota DNR, ​​The Lost 40 is one of the most pristine remaining stands of old-growth red and white pines in the state.

If you want to make a weekend of the adventure, you'll find several camping options along the Avenue of Pines, including the Forest Service's Mosomo Point and O-Ne-Gum-E campgrounds.

You'll also find several resorts in the area, many close to the scenic byway.

If you're looking to explore Minnesota's natural beauty by car, the Avenue of Pines Scenic Byway is a fantastic way to do so. Have you driven this byway before - or do you have another favorite? Let us know in the comments!