Journey through the heartland of America on the Great River Road, a historic and picturesque route that follows the Mississippi River for nearly 3,000 miles from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Conceived in 1938, this iconic byway is not a single road but a network of scenic roadways that wind through ten states, offering a glimpse into the diverse culture, history, and natural beauty of the Mississippi River Valley.
Here in Greater St. Cloud, the Great River Road offers a serene and engaging stretch of its long
course. Travelers can take a peaceful stroll along the Beaver Islands Trail, which hugs the riverbanks, or explore the renowned Munsinger Clemens Gardens, a floral oasis that provides a beautiful backdrop for a morning walk. For a unique experience, Quarry Park and Nature Preserve offers a chance
to swim, dive, or fish in over 20 former granite quarries, a testament to the region’s rich granite industry. Beaver Island Brewing Co. is a great reason to pull over, grab a pint, and a hotel room for the night in St. Cloud, we suggest Best Western Plus Kelly Inn and requesting a river view! Beaver Island Brewery uses Mississippi water to craft their beers and is a local sip you surely can’t miss (and it’s dog friendly). The St. Cloud stretch of the Great River Road beautifully showcases the blend of urban amenities and natural splendor that defines the area, making it an essential stop on any road trip along America’s Great River. Greater St. Cloud is part of the “Scenic Mississippi” stretch of the Great River Road. Wild and Scenic River is the designation given to this pristine section of Minnesota’s Mississippi because it is ideal for canoeing, picnicking, fishing and scenic biking.
For visitors to Greater St. Cloud, navigating the Great River Road is a scenic journey with a well-
defined route. The byway follows a series of local and state roads, all clearly marked with the iconic green pilot’s wheel symbol. As you drive into the St. Cloud area, you will be on County Road 1 coming from Sartell south. From there, the route follows several local streets, including 9th Ave, Clearwater Road, and Roosevelt Road, which parallel the Mississippi River and lead you to some of the area’s most notable attractions. See the full Great River Road MN Map HERE.
Did you know? September is Drive the Great River Road Month; celebrated annually in all ten Mississippi River states. The celebration encourages motorists to drive any section (or all of them) along the 3,000-mile Great River Road. Drive the Great River Road Month celebrates the countless things to see and do along the Great River Road, including visiting Interpretive Centers, parks, river towns, and more.
See you soon!
