Autumn is a popular time to explore the scenic byways in Historic Bluff Country. The varied landscape provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, selfies, and videos.
With leaves changing colors, the bright blue sky, the fall harvest, and colorful birds, you’re guaranteed to find something that captures your interest. Pumpkins, squash, and apples contribute to colorful fall photos. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful in the fall. Not only are the trees transforming, but the fields and gardens are also showcasing interesting details that enhance the composition of your pictures.
No matter which of the seven scenic byways you decide to travel on you cannot go wrong. The seven byways that wander through Bluff Country are: 1. Great River Road, 2. Apple Blossom Scenic Byway, 3. Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, 4. Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Highway, 5. Amish Byway, 6. Shooting Star Scenic Byway, and 7. Driftless Area Scenic Byway.
It’s fun to explore organized trails, such as the Northeast Iowa Studio Arts Tour or Houston County barn quilt trail. Both provide the perfect excuse to explore the countryside while enjoying the artistic richness of Bluff Country. Or make up your own trail like a taco trail. Partake in fun community celebrations which offer perfect opportunities for a selfie. Taking street photos of people and pets is also rewarding and makes for great photos. Other examples include the Mississippi River, farmers markets, apple orchards, fall harvest, fields of flowers, and fall decorations scattered throughout communities.
To ensure that you capture that once-in-a-life-time photo, follow these two simple tips:
- Plan for the Golden Hour: Head out an hour before sunset or an hour after sunrise when the sun is low in the sky. The soft light will be your friend.
- Focus on Photo Composition: Do not center your photo. Use the rule of thirds to place your subject off-center. Imagine your image divided into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines and position the subject along the lines or at their intersections. This easy-to-use technique creates a balance image and immediately catches the attention of the viewer.
Have fun in Historic Bluff County!
Upcoming Bluff
County Events
- October 4-6, Uffda Fest, Spring Grove, Minn.
- October 5, Fall into Lanesboro, Lanesboro, Minn.
- October 11-13, NE Iowa Studio Arts Tour, Northeast Iowa
- October 14, Lake Louise Luminary Walk, LeRoy, Minn.
- October 18-20, Hot Air Balloon Rally, Caledonia, Minn.
- October 19, Wild Turkey Fest/Fall Fest, Caledonia, Minn.
- October 19, Arts & Crafts Fair, Rushford, Minn.
- October 26, Haunted Harmony, Harmony, Minn.
The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.
For information on upcoming town festivals and events in Historic Bluff Country, and vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining, and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.
Leave a Reply