Last Updated on November 5, 2026
Apple Blossom Scenic Drive in southeastern Minnesota – just across the border from La Crosse, Wisconsin – is known for its beautiful views of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. But while the scenery along the drive is impressive, one of our favorite discoveries was an unexpected walking trail at Apple Blossom Overlook Park.
What we thought would be a quick stop at a scenic overlook turned into a peaceful hike along a wide, grassy trail with panoramic views of the valley below. It ended up being one of the highlights of our day!
If you’re spending time in La Crosse or the surrounding area, here’s everything you need to know to experience this scenic drive and park for yourself.
About Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
Apple Blossom Scenic Drive is a 17-mile route winding through the bluffs of southeastern Minnesota, from Dakota to La Crescent. There are pull-outs, overlooks, and charming farms and orchards to admire as you make your way along the picturesque route.
One thing I wasn’t prepared for was how confusing the route could be to follow. Several online sources refer to County Highway 29, but we never saw that number on the road signs. Maybe it used to be called that, I’m not sure, but the three roads you need to follow starting from the north are: County Highways 3, 12, and 1. “Apple Blossom Scenic Drive” signs also show up along the route (pictured below).
Apple Blossom Scenic Drive Map and Directions
Step 1: The Bluff Climb (Winona Co. Hwy 3)
• Where to start: Start on US-61 along the Mississippi River.
• The turnoff: In the small town of Dakota, MN, turn off US-61 onto Winona County Highway 3 West.
• What to expect: This road immediately leaves the river valley and takes you on a steep, winding climb straight up to the top of the bluffs.
Step 2: The Ridge Link (Winona Co. Hwy 12)
• The transition: Follow Co. Hwy 3 all the way to the top of the hills until you reach the small community of Nodine, MN.
• The turnoff: Co. Hwy 3 ends at a T-intersection in Nodine. Turn left (south) onto Winona County Highway 12.
• What to expect: This is a brief, flat connector stretch that links the two main scenic sections of the ridge.
• 📍 Orchard Stop (Southwind Orchards): While driving south on Highway 12, you will pass Southwind Orchards. In the fall, their ridgetop location offers sweeping views of the changing foliage alongside their apple stands.
Step 3: The Orchard Ridge & Descent (County Hwy 1)
• The transition: Shortly after passing the orchard, you will hit another T-intersection. Turn right (south) onto Winona County Highway 1 (the signs here also read Apple Blossom Scenic Drive).
• What to expect: This was our favorite stretch of the drive. It rides the highest ridges, passes right through the heart of the historic bluff-top orchards, and offers wide-open panoramas of the river valley below.
• 📍 Apple Blossom Overlook Park: About 3 miles before you hit downtown La Crescent, look for the sign for Apple Blossom Overlook Park. Pull into the free parking lot for a short hike and beautiful valley views. (More about this scenic Minnesota stop below.)
• The finish: After leaving the park, just stay on Co. Hwy 1 as it winds down the bluffs directly into the north side of La Crescent, MN, where the road meets back up with US-61.
Apple Blossom Overlook Park: Don’t Miss This Peaceful Stop
Apple Blossom Overlook Park was one of our favorite surprises along the drive. There’s more to this 55-acre park along County Highway 1 than first meets the eye.
As we drove up to it, I could tell there would be some nice views, but the park looked pretty small. With just a parking area and a couple of picnic tables, I figured we’d snap a picture or two and be on our way.
But there’s actually a beautiful wide, grassy walking trail that winds around the tall grass and vegetation in a 1.3-mile loop. We almost missed it, but I’m glad we didn’t. The hike was easy, scenic, and peaceful… we didn’t see another person the entire time.
Eventually the trail came to a narrow cliff that overlooks the Upper Mississippi Valley 580 feet below. From here, we could see the highway stretching across wetlands toward neighboring Wisconsin.
After admiring the views and taking a few pictures, we continued along the trail, which eventually looped back to the picnic tables and parking area.
You don’t need to spend a ton of time here, but I’d definitely recommend exploring beyond the initial overlook. We spent just under half an hour here and it ended up being one of the highlights of our day.
The Best Time to Drive Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
We drove Apple Blossom Scenic Drive in October and loved seeing the orange, red, and yellow fall colors covering the bluffs. This part of the Midwest is especially beautiful in autumn, and the sweeping views of the Upper Mississippi River Valley make it a great destination for a fall road trip.
Of course, the route is called Apple Blossom Scenic Drive for a reason! The area is known for its apple orchards, and they bloom in spring, so that’s actually the most popular time to visit. The trees typically bloom in early to mid-May, turning the hillsides into a beautiful display of blossoms.
While spring and fall are great times to visit, I’m sure the panoramic views are impressive in any season.
If you’re visiting La Crosse or exploring southeastern Minnesota, Apple Blossom Scenic Drive is an easy way to enjoy some beautiful Mississippi River Valley scenery without committing to a long hike or a full day of sightseeing.
And while the drive itself is worth experiencing, remember not to skip Apple Blossom Overlook Park for a short scenic hike.
Leave a Reply