Best and safest route from Red Wing to NE, SD?

Hi all,
I’m planning an early open water trip to the glacial lakes area and started thinking about the best route. I’ll be pulling a boat.
The last time I was out that way, we went up 94 and cut across on 28 to get to Eden area. This time I’m heading to Waubay/Webster area.
Am I better off taking the 94 route or maybe 212 to 59 to 7 and etc….? Or 12 all the way?
Which hwy is it that you hear about on TV being so dangerous, 12 or 212??
What is the SAFEST route? I’ll be traveling very early a.m. (3:00) on the way out, late weekday a.m. on the way back.
Suggestions?? What route do all you seasoned road warriors go? Stretches to avoid?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Don

94 to Hwy23 at St Cloud to 9 N at New London to Hwy 12 west to Webster. We went this route 2 weeks ago from Illinois and it was fine. Some 2 lane and the chance of some trucks but a decent way to go I think. And a friend from Webster that has family in the cities gave us this route and said it was the one he uses all the time.