Spectacular Fall Foliage Drives in the Midwest
Michigan Fall Foliage Drives
Brockway Mountain Drive, UP
Experience the breathtaking views along the 10-mile stretch of M-26 between Copper Harbor and Eagle Harbor. This road, the highest paved route above sea level between the Rockies and the Alleghenies, offers stunning vistas of Lake Superior and vibrant fall foliage. With two nature preserves and numerous scenic pull-offs, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty. The entire drive, including a loop via US-41 back to Copper Harbor, spans about 45 miles and takes just over an hour, depending on your stops. The peak color display is expected from October 1-7 in the UP.
M-22 Traverse City to Empire
Voted the best scenic autumn drive in the US, this route along M-22 outshines even Maine’s historic Route 1 and Ohio’s Hocking Hill Scenic Byway. Starting in downtown Traverse City, the drive takes you north along the east side of the Leelanau Peninsula and then down the west side. Continue on M-22 to Manistee, with a must-see stop at Sleeping Bear Dunes. This 116-mile journey takes about 2 hours, depending on your stops. Peak colors in northern Michigan are projected from October 7-14.
Huron River Drive
Enjoy a local favorite with the Huron River Drive from Ann Arbor to Dexter. This charming, winding road is flanked by vibrant fall colors. Begin your drive in Ann Arbor just before Main St. merges into M-14 and end in Dexter. Cap off your short 20-minute drive with cider and donuts at the Dexter Cider Mill or a visit to Hudson Mills Metropark. The best time for this trip is between October 14-21.
West Michigan Pike Historic Byway
The historic West Michigan Pike, established in 1915, remains a beloved route for Midwestern road trippers. Now part of US-31, this byway connects Lake Michigan towns from the southern border of Michigan to Mackinaw City, showcasing some of the state’s most picturesque scenery. Start your journey in Lake Michigan Shore Wine Country, with popular stops including the Michigan Maritime Museum, Holland, and Grand Haven. Continue through Muskegon and end at Silver Lake State Park.
Historic Motor Tour – US 27
Once a major north-south route from Cheboygan, Michigan to Miami, Florida, US 27 still offers a scenic drive through hills, forests, farmland, and small towns, especially stunning in autumn. Highlights include Coldwater, where you can ride a century-old steam train, and Marshall, home to over 800 historic buildings.
Black River National Forest Scenic Byway – CR 513
Nestled in the far western corner of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, CR 513 leads from Bessemer to the Lake Superior shore. This 15-mile route, once a wagon supply path to iron mines, is surrounded by one million acres of the Ottawa National Forest. Though short, this drive is spectacular, especially when the hardwood trees burst into autumn color.
Keweenaw Peninsula, UP
The Keweenaw Peninsula is a stunning destination year-round, but it truly shines in the fall. Begin your tour in Houghton/Hancock, home to Michigan Tech University, with its vibrant college town atmosphere, dining, and outdoor activities. Crossing the Portage Lake lift bridge marks the start of your Copper Country adventure, where the fall foliage will leave you in awe.
Wild River & Lake Michigan Bays
For those looking to combine a scenic drive with outdoor activities, this route is perfect. Start at Pine Mountain Ski Jump for stunning fall views, then take US-2 east to Norway and south on M-8 to Piers Gorge Road. Enjoy a 1.5-mile trail with views of the Menominee River’s rapids.
Minnesota Fall Foliage Drives
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, Minnesota transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the state’s scenic byways during fall is a must. Here are some of the best foliage drives in Minnesota that promise breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
North Shore Scenic Drive
The North Shore Scenic Drive along Highway 61 is a quintessential fall foliage route. Starting in Duluth and stretching to Grand Marais, this drive offers stunning views of Lake Superior, with vibrant autumn colors framing the shoreline. Don’t miss stops at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park and Tettegouche State Park for some of the best photo opportunities
Great River Road
Following the Mississippi River, the Great River Road is a picturesque journey through southeastern Minnesota. This route takes you through charming river towns like Red Wing and Winona, where you can enjoy the fall colors along the bluffs and riverbanks. The scenic overlooks and state parks along the way provide perfect spots for a leisurely picnic
Gunflint Trail
For a more rugged and remote experience, the Gunflint Trail is a fantastic choice. This 57-mile scenic byway starts in Grand Marais and winds through the Superior National Forest to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The mix of pine and hardwood forests creates a stunning contrast of colors, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts
Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway
This drive offers a mix of rolling hills, river valleys, and historic sites. The Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway takes you through charming small towns and past beautiful farmlands. Highlights include the historic town of New Ulm and the scenic views from the Minnesota River Valley
Iron Range Loop
Explore the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range with this loop drive. Starting in Virginia, the route takes you through the Superior National Forest to Ely. The fall colors here are particularly vibrant, with the mix of aspen, birch, and maple trees creating a stunning display. Don’t forget to visit the Soudan Underground Mine State Park for a unique underground tour
St. Croix Scenic Byway
The St. Croix Scenic Byway follows the St. Croix River, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding bluffs. This drive is especially popular in the fall, with the vibrant colors reflecting off the water. Stop in the historic town of Stillwater for some shopping and dining, and take a scenic boat tour in Taylors Falls for a different perspective
Wisconsin Drives
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, Wisconsin transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, a scenic drive through the state’s picturesque landscapes is a must. Here are some of the best routes to experience the breathtaking fall foliage in Wisconsin.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
Stretching over 115 miles, the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive takes you through the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. This route offers stunning views of rolling hills, glacial formations, and dense forests. The drive is particularly beautiful in the fall when the trees are ablaze with color1.
Great River Road
Following the Mississippi River, the Great River Road offers a unique blend of natural beauty and charming small towns. This drive is perfect for those who want to enjoy the fall colors while also exploring historic sites and local eateries
Door County Coastal Byway
Door County is renowned for its scenic beauty, and the Coastal Byway is no exception. This route provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests. The combination of water and colorful foliage makes for a truly picturesque drive
Marinette County’s Waterfall Tour
For a mix of waterfalls and fall colors, Marinette County’s Waterfall Tour is unbeatable. This 125-mile loop features 15 waterfalls, each surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. It’s a perfect drive for nature lovers and photographers alike
Hayward Lakes Area
The Hayward Lakes Area in Northwest Wisconsin offers six fall color tours ranging from 45 to 73 miles. These routes take you through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the ancient Blue Hills, providing a serene and colorful backdrop for your drive3.
Highway 42 and Highway 57 in Door County
These highways offer a comprehensive tour of Door County, covering both the bay side and the lakeside. The protected bay area allows for a longer viewing period of the fall colors, making it one of the most scenic spots in the state
Highway 36 from Wind Lake to Lake Geneva
This drive takes you through charming small towns and glacial areas, ending at the picturesque Lake Geneva. The combination of quaint towns and stunning fall colors makes this a delightful drive.
Ohio Fall Foliage Drives
Ohio offers some stunning scenic drives to enjoy the fall foliage. Here are a few of the best routes
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
This drive takes you through the beautiful Hocking Hills region, known for its waterfalls, caves, and vibrant fall colors. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers
Ohio River Scenic Byway
Stretching along the Ohio River, this byway offers picturesque views of the river and the surrounding fall foliage. It’s a great route for those who enjoy a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
Amish Country Scenic Byway
This route takes you through Ohio’s Amish Country, where you can enjoy the peaceful countryside and the brilliant fall colors. Don’t miss the chance to stop at local Amish shops and bakeries.
Covered Bridge Scenic Byway
This drive in Wayne National Forest features several historic covered bridges, making it a charming and picturesque route to enjoy the fall foliage.
Illinois Drives
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation, Illinois offers some of the most picturesque drives to witness the stunning fall foliage. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these scenic routes will provide breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Great River Road
Stretching over 550 miles along the Mississippi River, the Great River Road is a must-see during the fall season. This route offers a diverse range of topography, from rolling hills to majestic riverfront landscapes. The bluffs overlooking the river are lined with ash, hickory, maple, and oak trees, creating a spectacular display of red, orange, and yellow hues.
Shawnee Wine Trail
Located in southern Illinois, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail weaves through the Ohio River Valley, offering scenic views of hills and dramatic sandstone cliffs. The trail is bordered by the Shawnee National Forest, where you can enjoy the vibrant fall colors of oaks, hickories, and other native trees. Don’t forget to stop by the local wineries for a taste of the region’s best wines.
Historic Route 66
From Chicago to the Mississippi River, Historic Route 66 takes you through beautiful boulevards, picturesque prairies, and breathtaking bluffs. This legendary road is especially stunning in autumn, with colorful roadside attractions and vibrant fall foliage along the way
Illinois River Road
The Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway offers a journey through the heart of Illinois, showcasing the state’s natural beauty. The route is lined with forests, wetlands, and prairies, providing a diverse array of fall colors. Key stops include Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, where you can hike and enjoy the stunning autumn scenery1.
Looking for great fall foliage across the country
Mid Atlantic Fall Foliage Drives
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