If the fall season were a vibe (and many agree it’s the best vibe of all), it would be cozy, crisp mornings, coffees in hand by the lake. It would look like afternoon drives of oranges and reds that have you “oohhing” and “ahhhing”-- and flannels and boots for days. Fall is a short season, and we spend a lot of it panic-searching for that perfect route to see the brightest leaves at just the right time. When you want to fit it all in (pie baking, we’re looking at you), a beautiful escape just two hours from the Twin Cities has fall charm written all over its cinnamon-sugar face. Pumpkin patches, harvest festivals, ATV rides, fishing, cozy cabins–and oh, the colors–are the essentials to round out an idyllic autumn. And doing it all in Mille Lacs? Well, that’s the whipped cream on top of the pumpkin spice latte. 

When you plan your Fall Colors Road Trip, Minnesota edition, the first thing to think about is the ‘when.’ We suggest early October for peak foliage timing. Next, plan the ‘where.’ A few routes of note are the Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway, which loops around the lake – people rave about it all year long. You can also find fall color on the slow and peaceful Twilight Road, the wooded Vista Road, and the Garrison Concourse with its stunning backdrops. Interested in an interactive color-tracking map? Check out this ‘Find Fall Colors’ map courtesy of the Minnesota DNR.  

Next, you’ll want to add a little adventure to your day. The end of summer doesn’t mean you have to hang up your fishing pole and pack away the tackle box. Minnesota fall fishing trips include a little more quiet on the lake and a lot more coziness. There are still guided fishing trips and boat rentals to consider, as well as the excellent walleye bite as the temperature drops. There are evenings with hoodie sweatshirts, lounge time in cozy cabins, and bonfires to end a day well spent. 

Speaking of adventure, the Soo Line Trail, an abandoned railway turned all-terrain vehicle and snowmobile trail, is the place to make your autumn dreams come true. At the Soo Line, ATV excursions are a family-friendly, family-favorite option to feel the wind in your hair and thrill at your fingertips. This is the season of crisp, cool air brushing your face as you cruise past forests that radiate fall, with Mille Lacs as the ultimate destination to experience it all.  

Are those apple cider donuts you smell? Probably. With all the festivals, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and local fall-themed events in the Mille Lacs area, there’s no shortage of places to rock your puffer vest and blanket scarf. The Bloodsuckers Bash Car & Bike Show at The Hairy Mosquito is one such event where fall-themed celebrating is in full effect. So, don’t hesitate–join in all the fun! That corn maze isn’t going to conquer itself.

Gosh, after the apple picking and trail riding, you’re all tuckered out. Which Mille Lacs cabin will you choose? This will be a hard one; there are so many to choose from! From rustic cabins in the woods with cozy fireplaces and serene, lakeside views, to full-service resorts with luxurious amenities like hot tubs and saunas, you can have your pick when it comes to hanging your hat. Here are just some to consider:

• Musky Lodge - With a North Woods cabin feel, this 9-bedroom, elegant destination is ideal for all of your relaxing getaway needs.  

• Fawn & Fern - This is where luxury meets nature. Where time is enjoyed and serenity surrounds you. It’s a peaceful northern escape reimagined.

• The Red Door Resort - This idyllic Minnesota vacation destination is where the fishing is good, the people are friendly, and the memory-making game is really, really strong. 

• Stones Throw Chateau - It’s cozy, it’s comfortable, and it’s close to all the fun shops, restaurants, and golf courses. Oh, and it’s just feet from the water. 

• Appeldoorn’s Sunset Bay Resort - This family-friendly resort is all about lakeside adventure and quality time with those you love.

With all this adventuring, you’re working up a pretty big appetite. The options in Mille Lacs are in abundance, and they’re downright delicious. From cozy drinks at local coffee shops to favorite fall flavors at local eateries, while filling your heart with memories, you’ll fill your stomach with seasonal delights. Snacks on Mille Lacs serves specialty coffees, mouthwatering sandwiches, and everything in between. Our suggestion is to swing by and soak in the tastes that make fall truly special.

Does all this sound good? Would you like a place where you can find the yummiest, coziest cabin goodies for your fall escape? We’re talking cabin chili, gooey s’mores, and hot apple cider everything. Download our free guide to “Cozy Cabin Recipes & Drinks for Your Lake Getaway.”

The good news is, fall has arrived. The even better news is that your perfect fall getaway is well within your reach, just a short drive away. The Mille Lacs area is ready to show you what it’s got, and what it has is everything to celebrate this exciting season. 

Book now! 

And don’t forget to grab your free “Cozy Cabin Recipes & Drinks for Your Lake Getaway” guide.