Exploring the Best Road Trip Stops from Arden Hills to White Bear Lake

The urban areas surrounding Minneapolis offer plenty of opportunity for exploration, thanks to the wealth of entertainment options available in the region. But when you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle, just hit the road on a short trip from Arden Hills to White Bear Lake. You'll find some of Minnesota's best-hidden gems, scenic spots, and charming small towns along the way.

So, if you are looking for a perfect road trip getaway, we have put together some of the top places to see when driving from Arden Hills to White Bear Lake. Buckle up, and let's get started.

Driving through the Suburbs of Minneapolis

After leaving Arden Hills, hop on I-35E and drive northwards as you go through the suburbs of Shoreview and Vadnais Heights. Take a left turn onto Highway 96 to head east towards White Bear Lake. You'll find plenty of convenience stores and gas stations along the way for pit stops.

The Best Road Trip Stops

Tamarack Nature Center

Located in White Bear Township, the Tamarack Nature Center offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for nature lovers. This center features a range of hiking trails that go through varied habitats, a beautiful lake, and a popular summer camp for kids. The center's winding trails offer incredible views of the sun-kissed waters of the Big Marine Lake and go through prairies and woodlands, providing ample opportunities for bird-watching and spotting other wildlife.

Pine Tree Apple Orchard

When driving along Highway 96, you'll come across the Pine Tree Apple Orchard. The orchard is renowned for its strawberry picking during the summer and apple picking in the fall. There's always something to do, from taking a stroll in the fruit orchards and apple picking to tasting freshly pressed apple juice, homemade pies, and other farm-fresh produce. Don't forget to try their famous apple cider donuts.

Historic Downtown White Bear Lake

Just a few minutes from Pine Tree Apple Orchard, you'll find the charming historic downtown White Bear Lake. This town boasts of plenty of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Take a stroll down the lakefront promenade to take in the cool breeze and lovely views of the lake. The town's friendly locals, quaint shops and street events make it a fun place to explore.

Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park

Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park is a must-visit destination when driving along Highway 96. The park features two large lakes that provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can take a hike and explore the miles of unpaved trails that traverse extensive wetlands, pine forests, apple orchards, and drier upland areas. The park's scenic views and peaceful atmosphere are perfect for a picnic during the summertime.

Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Park

Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Park is another beautiful park situated along Highway 96. This park's unique feature is the stunning and historic Glass Bridge, which offers great views of Otter Lake and its surrounding wetlands. The park provides opportunities for camping, boating, and fishing, while the rugged terrain of the park's forests and hills offer challenging hiking and mountain biking experiences.

Conclusion

In summary, the small towns and nature centers along Highway 96 offer a wide range of adventure and exploration opportunities. Whether you want to take a relaxed stroll through the historic downtown, pick berries and apples, or hike through the scenic regional parks, there is something for everyone. So, grab your keys and explore the hidden treasures that await you as you drive from Arden Hills to White Bear Lake.