Timing is everything -- in life and the pursuit of fall color. This selection of routes, from north to south, corresponds to the fiery show of autumn. Visit them all, from first to last, and you will see a succession of peak hues. Of course, if you can make only one leaf-peeping trip, plan your destination accordingly.

1 Mid-September to early October: It is difficult to resist the lure of Hwy. 61, along Lake Superior's North Shore, but this autumn, consider veering inland to Edge of the Wilderness. The 47-mile scenic byway runs between Grand Rapids and Effie, through Chippewa National Forest. The rich landscape there includes rolling hills, sparkling lakes, swamps and a forest that promises the full array of fiery hues, with crimson sugar maples, orange oaks and yellow birch and aspen. Details at www.byways.org/explore/byways/2455; visitors info at www.visitgrandrapids.com.

2 Late September to early October: A drive on Hwy. 169 along the shore of Lake Mille Lacs offers views of that expansive lake, mixed forests and a nifty place to stop: Mille Lacs Kathio State Park. The park has 35 miles of hiking trails and a 100-foot observation tower, a good spot for viewing the crimson colors below. A well-timed visit on Sept. 29 could land you in a Voyageur canoe for a tour on the lake. That Saturday is Archaeology Day at the state park, which has a wealth of Ojibwe and Dakota history. Details on the park at www.startribune.com/a1692; visitors information at www.millelacs.com. For various routes in the nearby Brainerd area, go to www.brainerd.com/falltours.

3 Early to mid-October: Want a more open view of fall color, one that includes waving grasses and farmland? Then head to the Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway. The road traces the Minnesota River from Belle Plain, through Mankato and New Ulm, passing several parks. Stop at Minneopa State Park for a hike through oak savanna and native prairie grasses, and beside a waterfall. Later, take a tour of the August Schell Brewing Co. in New Ulm. Get a map and other details of the drive at byways.org/explore/byways/2211. Get New Ulm visitors info at www.newulm.com; info for Mankato is at www.visit greatermankato.com.

KERRI WESTENBERG