Brilliant Fall Colors Still To Come Across Southern Minnesota

With most of the northern half of Minnesota's fall colors at peak or past-peak, the southern half of the state has yet to completely reveal the best it has to offer. Searching for the best out there? Check out these maps to plan a weekend getaway this week or next.

Explore Minnesota recommends these Southern Minnesota routes for a fall color extravaganza:

• 7. St. Croix River Valley:  Along Highway 95 from Taylors Falls to Afton.
• 8. Twin Cities Touring: Parkways around Minneapolis lakes, along Minnehaha Creek, Mississippi and Summit Avenue.
• 9. Mississippi River Valley: Along Highway 61 between Red Wing and LaCrescent.
• 10. Minnesota River Drive: County Road. 6 & Highway 93 from Belle Plaine to LeSueur, then Highway 169 to Mankato, then Highway 68 to New Ulm.

I took in the Mississippi River Valley (#9) last fall, visiting Red Wing, Lake City, Wabasha and more -- and highly recommend the sights, shops, and eats of the area. I'm planning on hitting it again weekend after this.