The St. Croix River Valley is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Wisconsin and Minnesota. This stunning valley is home to some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in the region. As an avid hiker, you’re probably familiar with the popular trails that wind their way along the river’s banks. But there are many more gems waiting to be discovered in this scenic valley. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best trails in and around St. Croix Falls, from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.

Easy Day Hikes

The Great River State Trail

The Great River State Trail is a 13-mile trail that runs along the west bank of the St. Croix River from Stillwater to Taylors Falls. This trail is perfect for families or beginners, as it’s relatively flat and has scenic views of the river.

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway offers several day hikes along its banks. One popular hike is the Riverway Trail, which takes you through a mix of forests, prairies, and wetlands. This 4-mile trail is relatively easy and has some great views of the river.

More Challenging Trails

The St. Croix River Gorge Trail

The St. Croix River Gorge Trail is a more challenging 12-mile hike that takes you through forests, rock formations, and along steep bluffs overlooking the river. This trail requires some scrambling over rocks and roots, but the views are well worth it.

The Interstate State Park Trails

Interstate State Park has several trails of varying difficulty. One popular trail is the River to River Trail, which takes you from the top of the bluff down to the river below. This 6-mile trail involves some steep climbing and scrambling over rocks, but it’s a great workout.

The Wild River Trail

The Wild River Trail is a more challenging 14-mile hike that takes you through forests, wetlands, and along the river. This trail requires some wading in water and climbing over obstacles, so be prepared for a challenge.

Multi-Day Backpacking Trips

The St. Croix River Valley Loop

The St. Croix River Valley Loop is a 40-mile backpacking trip that takes you through forests, prairies, and wetlands along the river. This trip involves some steep climbing and scrambling over rocks, but it’s well worth it for the stunning views of the river.

The Wild River Trail to Interstate State Park

This 26-mile backpacking trip takes you from the Wild River Trail to Interstate State Park. This trip involves some wading in water and climbing over obstacles, so be prepared for a challenge.

Conclusion

The St. Croix River Valley is a hidden gem filled with stunning hiking trails of varying difficulty. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, there’s something for everyone here. So grab your backpack and come explore the best trails in and around St. Croix Falls!