Fall Wacky Roadside Scenic Byways

The Avenue of the Pines of Scenic Byway is a fall, straight, and relaxed scenic byway that runs 46 miles from Deer River to Northome, Minnesota. Towering, mature red pines line the highway, creating a shaded canopy effect. Some nearby pine stands date back nearly 400 years, notably near the Lost 40 State Natural Area. The path passes sparkling marshes, aspen stands, birch forests, and major lakes—including Lake Winnibigoshish, Minnesota's fifth-largest lake. You will discover frequent roadside wildlife sightings: eagles, black bears, white tail deer, porcupines, and ospreys. The small towns offer bars and restaurants, places to shop, gas stations, and unique outdoor recreation opportunities like ATVing, biking, fishing, hiking, and hunting.

Discover wacky roadside attractions along the scenic byway. The Big Goose that was installed in 1992 in honor of the Geese Unlimited that is located in Squaw Lake, Minnesota. And then just down the road you will find unique Native American rock art in Alvwood near the Hoot n Holler bar. And then in downtown Northome you will find the Big Black Bear. All of these are great places to stop for a photo opportunity.

Grand Rapids, Minnesota is a part of the Great River Road Minnesota where the mighty Mississippi River flows right through downtown historic Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids is a part of both the Northwoods and the Crossings regions of the Great River Road in Minnesota. The Great River Road is a 10-state national scenic byway that runs from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Part of a 565-mile byway that runs through large and small cities that offer historic sites, fun places to eat & drink, abundance of outdoor recreation trails, and through scenic routes that run around area lakes and rivers. While downtown Grand Rapids make sure to check out the boutique style shops, beautiful public art, and fun places to eat & drink.

In Grand Rapids you will discover a wacky roadside attraction known as Paul Bunyan's Chair - aka the Big Red Chair located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids across from the Old Central School.

This 47-mile scenic byway runs from Grand Rapids to Effie, Minnesota. This was the first designated scenic byway in the state of Minnesota. This windy and curvy route runs between crystal clear northern MN lakes and rivers. There are 14 discovery sites that represent historic and natural locations along the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway. The small rural communities are charming and welcoming. There are many places to get gas, find places to eat & drink, grab snacks, and use public restrooms.

Wacky roadside attractions to discover along the fall leaves tour drive are the Lumberjack in front of Bigfork, MN city hall, the Wannigan on the Bigfork River in Bigfork, and then the big Misquitto and Bucking Bronco in Effie, Minnesota. These are perfect photo opportunities.