A 51-mile parkway loop through the Chain of Lakes, Minnehaha Falls and the Mississippi. That is what Grand Rounds Scenic Byway promises, and it delivers. At about 51 miles (82 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 1 day, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Bde Maka Ska to Theodore Wirth Park.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Bde Maka Ska
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Bde Maka Ska is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Minnehaha Falls. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Minnehaha Falls and Stone Arch Bridge. Each one makes a natural break, and Stone Arch Bridge sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Lake of the Isles.
Arriving in Theodore Wirth Park
Save energy for the final stretch: Stone Arch Bridge is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Minnehaha Falls, Lake of the Isles and Stone Arch Bridge, and you will understand why Grand Rounds Scenic Byway belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is May–October. Plan on 1 day so the drive never feels rushed.
Check route weather and fuel stops on the Plan tab before you go.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
