Roadtrip from Brainerd, Minnesota to Sioux Falls, South Dakota: A Fun and Scenic Adventure!
Whether you're visiting relatives, going on vacation, or just looking for a little adventure, a road trip from Brainerd, Minnesota to Sioux Falls, South Dakota is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Midwest. With several routes to choose from, you'll have a range of options to suit any schedule and preference. So buckle up, adjust your mirrors, and get ready for a fun and scenic adventure!
Route 1: The Straight Shot
The shortest and most direct route from Brainerd to Sioux Falls takes you south on US Hwy 71 and west on I-90. This route covers approximately 325 miles and takes around 5.5 hours. While this route lacks the breathtaking scenery of other options, it does offer a quick and efficient way to get there. If you're short on time, or just want to get to Sioux Falls as fast as possible, this is the route for you.
Route 2: The Scenic Route
If you're in the mood for a little more scenery, take a leisurely drive south on MN Hwy 371 toward Little Falls. From there, follow US Hwy 10 west to Motley, where you'll turn south on MN Hwy 64. This route will take you through a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and charming small towns. After a short jaunt on US Hwy 10 near Staples, continue south on MN Hwy 28, where you'll intersect with MN Hwy 29. Take MN Hwy 29 south to Alexandria, where you'll connect with I-94 west. Follow I-94 west to Fergus Falls, and then take MN Hwy 210 west to Breckenridge, where you'll cross the border into South Dakota. From there, take I-29 south to Sioux Falls. This route covers approximately 395 miles and takes around 7 hours.
If you're looking for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and explore interesting places along the way, this is the route for you. Be sure to stop at the Itasca State Park and Lake Carlos State Park to soak up some of that beautiful Minnesota scenery.
Route 3: The Northern Route
If you're looking for a little more adventure and want to explore some of northern Minnesota before heading to Sioux Falls, take MN Hwy 371 south to Brainerd, where you'll turn west on MN Hwy 210. Follow MN Hwy 210 to Moorhead, where you'll cross the border into North Dakota. From there, take I-94 west to Valley City, where you'll catch ND Hwy 1 south to Lisbon. Continuing south on ND Hwy 27, you'll see rolling hills and open prairies as far as the eye can see. After connecting with ND Hwy 13 near Wahpeton, cross the border into Minnesota and follow MN Hwy 54 to Wyndmere, where you'll cross back into North Dakota. Follow ND Hwy 11 to Hankinson, where you'll cross the border into South Dakota. From there, take I-29 south to Sioux Falls. This route covers approximately 505 miles and takes around 9 hours.
If you're a history buff or just want to explore some of the lesser-known areas of the Midwest, this is the route for you. Stop by the Fort Abercrombie State Historic Site or the Wahpeton Science Center and Aquarium for a break from the road.
No matter which route you take, be sure to stop and take in the sights and sounds of the Midwest. The Brainerd Lakes Area, Detroit Lakes, and Fargo are just a few of the towns along the way that have plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. So grab your map, pack your snacks, and hit the road for a fun and scenic adventure you won't soon forget!