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Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Byway

Phone: (651) 284-3748
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Minnesota's northernmost scenic drive travels from Voyageurs National Park along the Canadian border. Ideal for anglers, boaters, birders and wildflower lovers, the route runs along the Rainy River from International Falls to Baudette, through fields of lady's slippers from Baudette to Warroad, and along the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail west of Warroad.

ZippelBay State Park has a 3-mile long beach on Lake of the Woods. This massive lake is known for its fishing, as is the Rainy River. The roadside between Baudette and Warroad blooms with wildflowers, and the area west of Warroad is part of the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail. The western end of the byway heads north on Hwy. 59 to Lake Bronson State Park.

Numerous resorts surround Voyageurs National Park and Lake of the Woods, two of the route's key attractions. The "Dancing Sky" refers to the aurora borealis, or northern lights, which frequently appear in the area thanks to its far-northern location and absence of bright city lights.

Additional Details

Length

  • 229 miles

Route

  • Across the top of Minnesota, between International Falls and the North Dakota border, mostly on Hwy. 11

Scenery

  • A mix of woods and farmland, Rainy River and Lake of the Woods.

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Along The Way

Find nearby things to do, places to stay, and more.

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Voyageurs National Park

Multimedia

Audio Guide
Waters of the Dancing Sky Scenic Drive

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Audio Guide
From Hallock to Zippel Bay

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Audio Guide
From Baudette to Voyageurs National Park

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