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That's So Minnesota: Fall colors from the bluffs

Wisconsin? Or Minnesota? Which side of the Mississippi River has the best fall color? Ellery McCardle drove to both and found a surprise along the way.

WINONA, Minn. - I've really enjoyed this fall and all of its beauty, traveling the state to find some great color. Earlier this month, I drove up to the North Shore and hiked Oberg Mountain to see spectacular fall foliage. I don't think I have ever seen such vibrant colors on the leaves.

RELATED: That's So Minnesota: North Shore's brilliant fall colors

My next stop took me a bit farther south, to Mille Lacs Kathio State Park in Onamia, where I climbed a fire tower in fresh snow, to see even more color, but also the end of the season for some trees.

RELATED: That's So Minnesota: Fall colors from a fire tower

October flew by and now we're near the end of it, along with the beautiful fall colors. So, this week, I went to a region that's typically last to see the leaves go, southeastern Minnesota.

My connection to this part of the state goes back eight years when I got my first reporting job in Rochester, Minn. I remember sitting in the newsroom during our morning editorial meetings and many times, my colleagues and I would fight over who could cover a story in Winona. We all loved visiting that city and I loved it for it pure beauty along the Mississippi River. Every time I would cover a story there, I would try to make a stop to Garvin Heights Park at its well-known overlook.

But I knew this wasn't the only great spot along the bluff region. I was sent a suggestion from my former sixth grade science teacher a while back to check out Buena Vista Park in Alma, Wis. Apparently, there's a beautiful overlook there. So, for this week's Photo Stop I thought, 'Why not go to both places to see if there's a big change in the leaves.'

We started off in Winona at Garvin Heights. It's the same old view I always remember, but it's always different in the fall because you never know how the leaves will turn each year. I love this overlook because you get a great view of the bluffs, the city and across into Wisconsin. There's one shot I always try to capture when I'm there, and it shows part of the winding road leading up to the overlook peaking out from the vibrant yellow trees. I definitely took a photo of that. Overall, I was surprised by how many leaves were already gone or dull, but still, it was a beautiful sight. You really can't beat Winona any time of the year.

Next, I drove across the border and north to Buena Vista Park in Alma, Wis. My, oh my, what a beautiful spot. On this side of the river you see less of the bluffs than at the Winona overlook, but you get an up-close view of the Mississippi River and a nearby lock and dam. What a view!

There may not be many leaves left, but if you can, drive down to either spot and you'll be delighted with what you see.

Have a beautiful or unusual spot you'd like me to photograph for KARE 11 Sunrise? Here's how to contact me:

Email: emccardle@kare11.com

Twitter: @ElleryTV

Facebook: facebook.com/ElleryTV

Instagram: @ellerymctv

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