Day Trips from St. Cloud
← All St. Cloud day tripsDay Trips from St. Cloud: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of St. Cloud, MN. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near St. Cloud
Overlook
MN 55347, USA
Just 1 hr 14 min from St. Cloud, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Thompson Hill Scenic Overlook
Duluth, MN 55810
Just 2 hrs 14 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Skyline Parkway Overlook
Duluth, MN 55806
Just 2 hrs 21 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 142 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Glenwood Overlook (Wayside Rest)
Glenwood, MN 56334
Just 1 hr 10 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
High Bridge Overlook
St Paul, MN 55107
Just 1 hr 18 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.8 stars by 262 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Skyline Scenic Overlook
MN 55806, USA
Just 2 hrs 21 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars by 107 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Stillwater, MN 55082
Just 1 hr 26 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
St Paul, MN 55116
Just 1 hr 16 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Viewpoint
Two Harbors, MN 55616
Just 2 hrs 55 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.7 stars by 120 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
St Paul, MN 55117
Just 1 hr 15 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Minnehaha Falls Grand Lookout
4801 S Minnehaha Dr, Minneapolis
Just 1 hr 16 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Ford Dam Scenic Overlook
St Paul, MN 55116
Just 1 hr 17 min from St. Cloud, rated 4.6 stars by 119 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from St. Cloud
What are the best scenic drives near St. Cloud, MN?
The best scenic drives near St. Cloud include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from St. Cloud?
Most scenic drives near St. Cloud range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near St. Cloud?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near St. Cloud, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from St. Cloud?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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