Class I St. Croix River, MN

St. Croix River State Water Trail/St. Croix River National Scenic Riverway (Namekagon River Confluence to Mississippi River)

The St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers offer clean water, gliding or rushing past a lush green landscape, with glimpses of a human presence. Choose to canoe and camp amid the northwoods, or boat and fish surrounded by wooded bluffs and historic towns. This river corridor provides bountiful scenic views and a haven for wildlife near a major metropolitan area.

The St. Croix River offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a wilderness-like experience and a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. On the upper portion of the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers, Class I-II rapids challenge the canoeist. The lower St. Croix is popular for recreational enthusiasts, who enjoy canoeing, boating, fishing, rock climbing, and hiking along its scenic shores. At the very lowest end, where the river widens as Lake St. Croix, power and sail boating are popular. Anglers, campers, picnickers, swimmers. and birdwatchers enjoy its variety of scenery throughout.

 

For More Information Visit:

St. Croix River - rivers.gov

 

Kayaks on beach within Minnesota's St. Croix River State Park - Credit: djvass, Flickr Public Photo

Photo: djvass - Flickr Public Photo

Section Details

Trip Length Multiday, 164.0 Miles
Notes The stretch upstream of Taylors Falls, MN is more secluded and better suited to canoeing and kayaking. The rest of the river reaching south to the confluence with the Mississippi River is wider and used by both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
Fishing Yes
Camping Yes
Manager State, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Wild & Scenic Yes
Water Trail Yes
Partner Information https://www.stcroixriverassociation.org/
https://www.nps.gov/sacn/index.htm
Photo Credit: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources