Basics
- Length:
- 50 miles (80 km)
- Time:
- Allow about 1 hour to tour this byway.
- Fees:
- No fees to travel the byway.
Description
This section of Highway 23 has been known as the scenic route to Duluth for decades. Drive this byway and see for yourself why locals prefer this scenic drive to the busy interstate any day.
Near the beginning of the route is Banning State Park, which offers unprecedented recreational opportunities for travelers with any preference. The camping and hiking are spectacular, the river fishing and canoeing are famous around the state, and for the adventurous, kayaking the Kettle River with its infamous "Hell's Gate" rapids is a popular activity on the byway. Creeks and small rivers criss-cross the length of the route, many of which offer fine trout fishing, especially the Nemadji and South Fork rivers on the northern part of the route. Near the end of of the route is the Veteran's Memorial Overlook, with a breathtaking view of the St. Louis River Valley.
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
Banning State Park (MN)
Established in 1963, the 6,000 plus-acre Banning State Park is famous for a wide variety of white water rapids.
Directions
Banning State Park marks the southern end of the byway, just off of I-35.
Bruno Park (MN)
This small park offers shade trees and restroom facilities, and a memorial plaque honoring veterans of foreign wars from Carlton, Pine, and St. Louis counties.
Directions
Bruno
Jay Cooke State Park (MN)
Jay Cooke State Park is a favorite place for hikers and trailblazers with the many splendid views and activities, including a high suspension bridge over the St. Louis River.
Directions
Jay Cooke State Park is at the northern end of the byway.
Pine County Historical Museum (MN)
The Pine County Historical Museum, an old railroad depot turned into a pioneer museum, depicts history and artifacts of the area including a special exhibit on the history of transportation.
Directions
The museum is in downtown Askov, right off the byway.
Wrenchall Scenic Overlook (MN)
Wrenchall Scenic Overlook provides a beautiful view of the St. Louis Valley during any season.
Directions
Close to the north end of the byway on the south side of the St. Louis River.
