Minnesota Tourism organization Explore, Minnesota has been loving Winona lately. In three recent articles on their website, the group has featured Winona in: top fall color trips, top places to paddle, and top spots for great hiking.
In a piece titled “Rainbow Routes: 10 Fall Color Drives,” the Winona area makes the list at number 9. Of the Mississippi River Valley route, their writers say, “Charming river towns and wooded bluffs border the Mississippi River on this colorful route, characterized by steep hillsides dressed in brilliant autumn hues of red, russet and gold. Several scenic overlooks, including those at Frontenac and Great River Bluffs state parks, are must-stops. You’ll also find several roadside apple stands for a tasty afternoon snack. This is a popular fall drive, so book your stay ahead of time.”
Read the full article here
Fall colors aren’t the only thing that comes to Explore Minnesota’s mind when it comes to Winona. Our neck of the woods also is featured in their article, “Paddle Your Way Through Autumn”. Both the Mississippi River and nearby Root River are mentioned. Of the Mississippi River near Winona, their writers say, “Fall paddlers can enjoy the colorful bluffs and also watch for birds that gather in the backwaters as they prepare to migrate south.” Just 20 minutes from Winona, the Root River is also featured. Explore Minnesota writes, “A great river for beginners and families, this peaceful waterway flows through the bluffs and farmlands of southeastern Minnesota, with historic and charming small towns along the way.”
You can find “Paddle Your Way Through Autumn” here
Finally, the writers at Explore Minnesota tells readers to “Hike to Bluff Country’s Overlooks” in a piece of the same title. Winona is featured along with Red Wing, and nearby Frontenac State Park. They write, “Farther downriver in Winona, Great River Bluffs State Park is named for the sheer-sided bluffs that rise 500 feet above the river and valley. The park has more than six miles of easy hiking trails. Four trail overlooks—the North, South, and East Overlooks and the King’s Bluff Overlook—offer spectacular views of the Mississippi. Get an expansive view of the park’s interior from the Hill of Many Timbers and Kearn’s Valley overlooks. Hiking trails wind through forests, fields, and prairies that are home to wildlife ranging from wild turkeys to grouse and coyotes. With plentiful lodging along the byway, including hotels, motels, B&Bs and state park campgrounds, take a weekend to enjoy this area’s spectacular scenery and invigorating hikes.”
Read about hiking in Bluff Country here