The drive
US 61 follows the Mississippi River between Red Wing and Wabasha as a two-lane road, 27.4 miles and rated Leisurely. Along this stretch the river widens into Lake Pepin, and the highway and Wisconsin Highway 35 across the water are both National Scenic Byways and parts of the Great River Road.
Lake Pepin is a natural lake on the Mississippi, about 22 miles long and up to 2 miles wide. Frontenac State Park covers much of the Minnesota shore, and Lake City, the largest city on the waterfront, calls itself the birthplace of waterskiing: Ralph Samuelson invented it on the lake in 1922.
The drive ends in Wabasha, near the southern end of the lake, where US 61 meets Highway 60, part of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Highway. Reads Landing marks the lake's southern end.
Along the way
- Red Wing
- Frontenac
- Lake City
- Reads Landing
- Wabasha
Good to know
- The road is two lanes between Red Wing and Wabasha, and it meets US 63 in Lake City, so watch the signs.
- Parts of the route are signed as the Great River Road.
- Check 511 for current conditions before you go.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Minnesota 511 (MnDOT).
Questions about this drive
How long does Highway 61 from Red Wing to Wabasha take?
Highway 61 from Red Wing to Wabasha is 27.4 miles and takes about 35 minutes without stops.
Is US 61 along Lake Pepin part of the Great River Road?
Yes. Parts of US 61 in this area are signed as the Great River Road, and the highway along Lake Pepin is a National Scenic Byway.
How big is Lake Pepin?
Lake Pepin is about 22 miles long and up to 2 miles wide, a natural lake on the Mississippi.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.