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Wisconsin's Lake Superior Scenic Byway wins national designation

Feb 17, 2021 03:11PM ● By Editor
The Lake Superior Scenic Byway has been designated a National Scenic Byway. |  Photo: Provided by Bayfield Co. Tourism


From WDIO-TV - February 16, 2021

The Federal Highway Administration has confirmed what northern Wisconsin residents already know: Highway 13 along the south shore of Lake Superior is a great drive.

The 70-mile stretch of highway known as the Lake Superior Scenic Byway was officially named a National Scenic Byway on Tuesday. The road through Port Wing, Herbster, Cornucopia, Red Cliff, Bayfield, and Washburn brings drivers through historic fishing villages and dense forests and past orchards and sand beaches.

Bayfield County Tourism Director Mary Motiff said the new designation does not impose any new restrictions, but rather is a way to attract a whole new audience to visit the area.

"This designation further highlights the many reasons that Bayfield County is a world-class destination," Motiff said in a news release.

Elsewhere, Door County's Coastal Byway was also named a National Scenic Byway and the Wisconsin Great River Road was elevated from a National Scenic Byway to an All American Road. The Wisconsin Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Prescott to the southwestern corner of the state on Highway 35.

The routes are selected based upon their archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation called Tuesday's announcement the result of a cooperative effort. 

“It is a well-deserved honor for these three routes to gain National Scenic Byways titles, which help guide travelers from around the world," WisDOT Secretary-designee Craig Thompson said in a news release. "I want to thank all those who worked on these designations and welcome anyone to enjoy the spectacular beauty and recreation these routes offer in Wisconsin."

The three routes were among 49 new designations announced by the FHWA on Tuesday.


To the original report and see related stories, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website.  https://www.wdio.com/wisconsin-news/lake-superior-scenic-byway-wins-national-designation/6015104/

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