The St. Croix River Valley Drive rambles along the alternately wild and pastoral St. Croix for 60 miles, visiting three state parks and picturesque river towns. See the Southeast Minnesota map for the locations of these drives. The 39-mile Avenue of Pines has earned its name from the sections of the byway lined with large red or Norway pines planted in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The many lakes viewed through the pines add to the scenic beauty and to water recreation opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and water-skiing. The area is home to nearly 300 nesting bald eagles, as well as osprey, black bear, gray wolf, deer, and raccoon.
Nearby sites offer historical interest and, in the summer months, good berry picking.
See the Northwest Minnesota and Western Minnesota maps for the location of this drive. See the Northwest Minnesota and Western Minnesota maps for the location of this drive. A 58-mile segment of US Highway 61 makes up this scenic drive through the Superior National Forest. See the Northeast Minnesota and Eastern Minnesota maps for the location of this drive. A 22 mile segment of the Minnesota State Highway 38 showcases the beauty of the lakes.