SUMMER EDITION
Explore Like a Local
8 Ways to Explore The St. Croix Valley
LIKE A LOCAL
St. Croix Falls is jam packed with summertime must-do’s and there’s nothing better than getting the inside scoop from the locals. Luckily, we put together the perfect list just for you!
1. TAKE A HIKE
St. Croix Falls is the city of trails after all! Whether you’re looking for a quick hike, a full day adventure or you’re here for the scenic views, there’s something for everyone. Interstate Park is a great place to start with 13 different summer trails to explore. Or hike the Ice Age National Scenic Trail that traverses through parts of Interstate Park and all throughout St. Croix Falls.
If you’re looking for a short hike with the promise of a view you’ll want to visit either Pothole Trail or Horizon Rock Trail. Skyline Nature Trail is another fantastic option for a quick, beautiful, and educational hike marked with interpretive signs along the way.
If you’re here for a good time and a long time, the Lake O’ The Dalles Trail will take you on a 1 mile loop around the lake with access to a beach, picnic area, and even a fishing pier.
Don’t miss the Hospital Esker Trail’s 130’ foot climb to get a perfect view of the breathtaking St. Croix River Valley.
Want some history? The Silverbrook Trail will bring you to the grounds of Silverbrook Mansion, past an abandoned copper mine and right to the 18-foot Silverbrook Falls.
2. ENJOY A BIKE RIDE
The locals will tell you to check out The Gandy Dancer Trail– a great family-friendly bike ride that follows the railroad and is designated only for bikers and hikers April through November.
For you mountain bikers out there, Wooly Mountain has 5 major single and double-track loops groomed and waiting for you! From beginner to advanced, everyone can enjoy the scenic trails that wind throughout the St. Croix Valley.
3. GO FOR A PADDLE
Whether you kayak, canoe, paddleboard or paddleboat, there’s opportunity for all! Want to explore all the St. Croix River has to offer? With several public access points along the river, St. Croix Falls is a great place to begin your river adventure. Come for a slow morning kayaking with a view of the scenic bluffs or stay for one of the many paddle-in campsites along the shore.
If you’re looking for a motor-free, serene paddle, Lake O’ the Dalles inside of Interstate Park is the perfect spot. With access to a public boat landing, bring your favorite paddle of choice and hit the lake!
Don’t have your own paddle? Don’t worry there’s plenty to choose from here!
4. VISIT FRIENDS
All of your furry and feathered friends are just down the road at Fawn-Doe-Rosa Wildlife Educational Park! Bring the whole family for a day of fun exploring the barnyard, feeding the deer, or even take a pony ride.
5. Visit a Brewery, Winery, or SupperClub
Enjoy one of the several locally owned establishments here in St. Croix Falls! Craft Beer? Look no further than Trap Rock Brewing Company. If wine is your thing, you’re in luck! Dancing Dragonfly Winery, Chateau St. Croix, or Deer Lake Winery are sure to have something you’ll love.
Don’t miss out on a St. Croix Falls staple, the historic Dalles House Supper Club where you’ll be treated to a classic Wisconsin Supper Club experience.
6. Go Boating!
With miles of the St. Croix River to enjoy and countless area lakes, the possibilities are endless! Bring your fishing boat of choice for a day reeling in panfish, smallmouth bass, and even a walleye or two. There’s no shortage of watersports going on either, so don’t forget your tubes and waterskis!
Rather catch a ride? The Dalles of the St. Croix River offers a unique paddlewheel riverboat experience perfect for a date night, a lunch with friends or the whole family.
7. Catch a Concert
It’s Music on the Overlook or MOTO, as the locals call it, season! Stop over for some shopping before the show, bring some snacks and your lawn chair, and enjoy FREE weekend concerts June-August at the St. Croix Falls Overlook Park.
If you’re looking for an indoor experience, be sure to check out the Historic Auditorium. See upcoming events here!
8. Be A Kid Again!
It’s summertime afterall and there’s no better place than the St. Croix Valley to bring out your inner child! Stop over to Mt. Croix Cart and Putt for a little mini golf and go-cart competition! Or spend the day at Wild Mountain Waterpark enjoying the lazy river and waterslides. End your day with a juicy Be Wild Burger or a waffle cone at Valley Sweets, and don’t forget to take a pic for the gram by the beautiful St. Croix Falls Mural! #thestcroixvalley
This article was written by Megan Lindberg and produced by Linda Shober Marketing + Design, a marketing firm located in the St. Croix Valley specializing in providing content, strategy, management, design, and creative for digital and traditional marketing projects.