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Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway

Phone: 507-864-2992
Alternate Phone: (507) 864-1113
Toll Free: 800-428-2030
hbc@bluffcountry.com
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Follow the lush Root River Valley and wind your way through what feels like a landscape painting of woodsy hills and dramatic dolomite bluffs, marked with the tranquil silhouette of a lone Amish buggy. Explore the Root River Trail by bike, stopping for pie or lunch in a trail town along the way. Or, enjoy the same route on the river; the main towns and campgrounds have outfitters for kayak, canoe and tube rentals, as well as bike rentals.

Bluff country is also a great place for fishing, with many trout streams winding through the area. At a state park, naturalists lead tours of Mystery Cave and costumed interpreters portray life in 1899 Historic Forestville. Amish buggies are a common sight on these country roads. Lodging runs the gamut, from cozy B&Bs to rustic hideaway cabins to elegant retreats with specialty cuisine and rooms with expansive valley views.

Additional Details

Other Date Information

• Additional Date Information: The Historic Scenic Byway Highway 16 is only one of 5 incredible scenic drives in Southeastern Minnesota. Take time to take them ALL in!

Green Practices

• Desc of Green Practices in Place: Recycled plastic, glass, metal and paper throughout the region
• Waste Reduction/Reuse/Recycling
• Water Conservation/Wastewater Mgmt Plan

Attraction Attributes

• Accessible to Disabled
• Can Accommodate Groups of 45 or more

Length

• 88 miles

Route

• Hwy. 16 between LaCrescent and Dexter; a scenic alternative to I-90.

Scenery

• Wooded bluffs, Root River, charming villages, pastures and fields.

More Information

• Explore Bluff Country Arts
• Downshift Through Bluff Country
• Get Cozy In Bluff Country