Devils Lake to La Crosse: Road Trip Guide

Driving from Devils Lake, ND to La Crosse, WI covers 634 miles along US-2, I-29, and I-94, crossing the Red River Valley and the Driftless Area. The route follows the historic path of the Northern Pacific Railway, which shaped settlement in the late 1800s.

Driving time is about 10 hours with stops. Best stops Devils Lake, ND to La Crosse, WI include Fargo's Hjemkomst Center and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona. Fuel costs average $55–$70 depending on vehicle, with prices lower in ND than WI. Road conditions are excellent; the entire route is paved interstate or US highway.

• Interstate 94 from Fargo to Minneapolis is four-lane divided.
• US-2 from Devils Lake to Fargo is two-lane with passing lanes.
• I-90 from Madison to La Crosse is also four-lane.

The route transitions from the flat prairie around Devils Lake to the forested river bluffs of the Upper Mississippi Valley. The Driftless Area near La Crosse features karst topography and spring-fed streams. Is it worth driving Devils Lake, ND to La Crosse, WI? Yes, for the unique blend of landscapes and cultural stops.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are not on the route; the nearest is the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in Wisconsin, which are a side trip. Fish fry Fridays are a regional tradition in Wisconsin supper clubs, offering walleye or perch. Local commerce thrives in small towns like Alexandria, MN, known for its lake recreation.

For hidden gems, consider the Herman's Lake Trail near Ottertail for a short hike, or the historic town of Stillwater, MN, for antique shopping.

Safety is high; the route has minimal mountain driving and no severe weather except winter storms, which can cause icy conditions. What is the best time to drive? Summer and fall offer mild weather and scenic foliage. The route is pet-friendly with numerous rest areas and chain hotels that allow pets.

For family breaks, the Children's Museum in Fargo and the Como Park Zoo in St. Paul are notable. Rest areas are plentiful, and drivers should plan stops every 2 hours to manage fatigue.

Things to do between Devils Lake, ND and La Crosse, WI include visiting the World's Largest Buffalo in Jamestown, ND, and the Spam Museum in Austin, MN. For more tips, check how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.