Introduction

The St. Croix River Valley is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. While many visitors flock to popular trails like the Superior Hiking Trail, there are several lesser-known trails that offer just as much adventure and scenery without the crowds. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best kept secrets in the St. Croix River Valley’s trail network.

The North Country Trail

One of the most underrated trails in the area is the North Country Trail (NCT), which spans over 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. The section of the NCT that runs through the St. Croix River Valley offers stunning views of the river and surrounding bluffs.

The trailhead for this section of the NCT is located in Jay Cooke State Park, near the town of Carlton, Minnesota. From here, hikers can follow the well-marked trail northward along the riverbank. The first few miles are relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it a great introduction to backpacking for beginners.

As you continue northward, the terrain becomes more rugged and challenging. Hikers will need to navigate steep hillsides and cross several streams using wooden bridges or stepping stones. But the scenery is well worth the effort: the trail offers breathtaking views of the St. Croix River from atop towering bluffs, as well as secluded campsites and picnic areas.

The Superior Hiking Trail

While many visitors flock to the popular sections of the Superior Hiking Trail (SHT), there are several lesser-known segments that offer just as much adventure and scenery without the crowds. One such section is the SHT’s connection to the North Country Trail in Jay Cooke State Park.

This 12-mile section of the SHT runs from the state park’s trailhead northward along the riverbank, offering stunning views of the St. Croix River and surrounding bluffs. The terrain is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it a great introduction to backpacking for beginners.

As you continue northward, the terrain becomes more rugged and challenging. Hikers will need to navigate steep hillsides and cross several streams using wooden bridges or stepping stones. But the scenery is well worth the effort: the trail offers breathtaking views of the St. Croix River from atop towering bluffs, as well as secluded campsites and picnic areas.

The Gooseberry Falls State Park Trails

Gooseberry Falls State Park is another hidden gem in the St. Croix River Valley, offering several lesser-known trails that offer just as much adventure and scenery without the crowds. One such trail is the Gorge Trail, which runs from the park’s visitor center down into the gorge of Gooseberry Creek.

The Gorge Trail is a challenging hike, with steep stairs and rocky terrain that requires caution. But the scenery is well worth the effort: the trail offers breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding bluffs, as well as secluded picnic areas and campsites.

Another lesser-known trail in Gooseberry Falls State Park is the River Walk, which runs along the St. Croix River from the park’s visitor center northward to the town of Two Harbors. The terrain is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it a great introduction to backpacking for beginners.

Conclusion

The St. Croix River Valley offers several lesser-known trails that offer just as much adventure and scenery without the crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for a new challenge, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a unique hiking experience in the Midwest, consider exploring some of the lesser-known trails in the St. Croix River Valley. From the North Country Trail to the Superior Hiking Trail and Gooseberry Falls State Park Trails, there are plenty of options for hikers of all skill levels.

Practical Examples

  • Gear: When backpacking in the St. Croix River Valley, it’s essential to pack layers for changing weather conditions. Bring a waterproof jacket, insulated hat, and warm gloves.
  • Navigation: The North Country Trail and Superior Hiking Trail are well-marked, but it’s still important to bring a map and compass as backup navigation tools.
  • Accommodation: Jay Cooke State Park has several campsites with picnic tables and restrooms. Gooseberry Falls State Park also has several campsites with picnic areas and restrooms.

References

  1. National Park Service. (n.d.). North Country Trail. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/noca/learn/historyculture/north-country-trail.htm
  2. Superior Hiking Association. (n.d.). Superior Hiking Trail. Retrieved from https://www.shta.org/
  3. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. (n.d.). Gooseberry Falls State Park Trails. Retrieved from https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/gooseberry_falls/trails.html