Why You Should Go...

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the lengths of both the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers; a total of 255 miles. These rivers are wild and scenic with clean water and minimal alterations to the river channel made by people. Because the park protects such a long length of unbroken habitat, you can see intact ecosystems that were present before European settlement, including 40 species of mussels that help filter the water of the rivers.

Visitors will find plenty of scenic views lacking intrustions of the modern day with forested river valleys and stunning rock outcrops. Single-day adventures can include hiking, fishing, boating, or driving along the historic towns. Multi-day adventures can include camping, canoeing, or kayaking with different levels of difficulty to be found along the rivers.

Why You Should Go...

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the lengths of both the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers; a total of 255 miles. These rivers are wild and scenic with clean water and minimal alterations to the river channel made by people. Because the park protects such a long length of unbroken habitat, you can see intact ecosystems that were present before European settlement, including 40 species of mussels that help filter the water of the rivers.

Visitors will find plenty of scenic views lacking intrustions of the modern day with forested river valleys and stunning rock outcrops. Single-day adventures can include hiking, fishing, boating, or driving along the historic towns. Multi-day adventures can include camping, canoeing, or kayaking with different levels of difficulty to be found along the rivers.

What You Should Know...

Open: Year-Round

If you don’t have a boat you can rent a canoe or kayak from an outfitter on the river.

There are campsites on the river divided up into zones with each zone having different management practices. You should check the rules for the campsites you plan on using and to ensure you are following the rules for the right agency. Some campsites belong to state parks.

Check the park’s calendar for information on ranger-led activities on the Riverway.

The Dalles is a globally rare geologic feature with the most identifiable natural element of the Riverway. It contains more glacial potholes in a smaller area than any other location in the world, including the world’s deepest example.

The first interstate state park in the country was established along the St. Croix in 1895.

An area on the St. Croix River was selected to be a National Park Service Recreational Demonstration Area, built as a model for planning other parks. Today this area is a National Historical Landmark and St. Croix State Park in Minnesota.