Ste. Genevieve to Red Wing: A Mississippi River Road Trip

The route from Ste. Genevieve, Missouri to Red Wing, Minnesota traces the Mississippi River's ancient path for nearly 600 miles. This drive, primarily on the Great River Road (Route 61 and 35W), passes through the oldest permanent settlement in Missouri and ends in a Minnesota town known for red-winged blackbirds.

Travelling at a relaxed pace, expect 10 to 12 hours of driving time. The journey weaves through Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin before crossing into Minnesota. Learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities with our guide: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Below is a quick snapshot of driving parameters along the route.

This road trip uses well-maintained highways, including US-61 and US-52. Fuel stops are frequent every 20-30 miles in Illinois and Iowa, but become sparser in northern Wisconsin. Plan to fill up in larger towns like Dubuque or La Crosse.

Speed limits range from 55 mph on scenic byways to 70 mph on interstates. Traffic is generally light outside of Quad Cities and La Crosse.

• Total distance: 580 miles (933 km)
• Best time to drive: Spring (April-May) for wildflowers or Fall (September-October) for foliage.
• Tolls: None on the main route; some Mississippi River bridges may have small tolls ($1-2).

Road Quality & Safety

US-61 is primarily two-lane through the Driftless Area; watch for curves and farm vehicles. Winter driving (December-February) can be hazardous. Roadside assistance is widely available near towns.

For families, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque is a top pick. Pet-friendly stops include the Soudan Underground Mine State Park (pets allowed on leash) and numerous state park trails.

Rest Zones and Fatigue Management

Take a break every two hours. Ideal rest stops include the rest area near La Crosse with river overlooks, and the Maquoketa Caves State Park for a short hike.

• Best rest stop: Bellevue State Park, Iowa (picnic area with view).
• Hidden gem: The Spook Cave in McGregor, Iowa (guided boat tour).
• Fatigue tip: Schedule an overnight in Dubuque or La Crosse.

Mississippi River Valley Views

Driving north, the flat floodplains of Missouri give way to the rolling hills of the Driftless Area in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Key scenic overlooks include the Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor, Iowa, and the Great River Bluffs State Park in Minnesota.

The route passes through two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Cahokia Mounds (near St. Louis, a slight detour) and the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in Oak Park, Illinois (not directly on route but notable).

Locally Made and Grown

Market towns like Galena, Illinois, and Stockholm, Wisconsin, offer farm-to-table dining and artisan shops. In Red Wing, visit the Red Wing Shoe Store and the Pottery Museum.

• Ste. Genevieve: B&B and wine tasting at Chaumette Vineyards.
• Hannibal: Mark Twain's hometown; tour the Mark Twain Cave.
• Galena: Ulysses S. Grant's home; historic downtown with antique shops.
• Red Wing: Pottery tours at Red Wing Stoneware; hiking at Barn Bluff.