St. Croix Falls Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to St. Croix Falls

St. Croix Falls is a charming small town located in northwest Wisconsin, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. Situated on the banks of the St. Croix River, the town boasts numerous parks, trails, and scenic lookout points.

List of Places to Visit in St. Croix Falls

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The St. Croix River Visitor Center
  • The Polk County Museum
  • The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

Natural Attractions of St. Croix Falls: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Interstate State Park - famous for its deep gorges, glacial potholes, and scenic cliffs.
  • Cascade Falls - a beautiful waterfall located in downtown St. Croix Falls.
  • Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway - a scenic train ride that offers panoramic views of the St. Croix River Valley.
  • St. Croix National Scenic Riverway - a national park that offers boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Croix Falls

  • Ice Age National Scenic Trail - a hiking trail that follows the route of glaciers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • St. Croix County Bicycle Map - a comprehensive map of biking routes in St. Croix County, including trails and scenic roads.

Best Things to Do in St. Croix Falls: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking tours of the St. Croix River
  • Zip-lining at Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area
  • Wine tasting at Chateau St. Croix Winery

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Croix Falls

Day Activities
1 Explore downtown St. Croix Falls, visit Cascade Falls
2 Hike at Interstate State Park and tour the St. Croix River Visitor Center
3 Take a scenic train ride and visit Osceola
4 Go kayaking on the St. Croix River
5 Visit the Polk County Museum and Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
6 Bike on the St. Croix County Bicycle Map
7 Wine tasting at Chateau St. Croix Winery

Food and Drink Scene of St. Croix Falls

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese curds - a Wisconsin classic!
  • Friday fish fry - a traditional Wisconsin dish consisting of fried fish, coleslaw, and potato wedges.

Local Beverages

  • Leinenkugel’s beer - a local Wisconsin brewery with a wide variety of beers.
  • Wine from Chateau St. Croix Winery - a local winery known for its award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in St. Croix Falls: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Dalles House Motel
  • Holiday Inn Express St. Croix Valley
  • The Riverfront Inn

What to Buy in St. Croix Falls: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cheese from the Ellsworth Creamery
  • Handcrafted pottery from Franconia Sculpture Park

Local Culture and Customs of St. Croix Falls

St. Croix Falls boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by its Native American and European settlers. Be sure to check out the local festivals and events, such as the St. Croix Falls Art Bench Trail and the Spirit of the St. Croix Art Festival.

Best Time to Visit St. Croix Falls

The best time to visit St. Croix Falls is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the river is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and boating. Fall is also a beautiful time to visit, as the leaves change color and the hiking trails are less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Croix Falls

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the outdoor attractions in the area, such as the parks and hiking trails.
  • Do try the local cuisine, especially the cheese curds and Friday fish fry.
  • Do participate in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the parks or on the trails.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t underestimate the power of the St. Croix River - always follow safety guidelines when swimming, kayaking or boating.

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Croix Falls

St. Croix Falls is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take basic precautions such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables visible. The parks and hiking trails are generally safe, but visitors should take care when hiking near cliffs or on uneven terrain.

Health in St. Croix Falls

There are several medical facilities in St. Croix Falls, including the Westfields Hospital and the Polk County Health Department. It is always a good idea to bring any necessary medications with you when traveling.

Getting to St. Croix Falls: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Croix Falls

  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) - 55 miles from St. Croix Falls.
  • St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP) - 50 miles from St. Croix Falls.

Bus Stations Near St. Croix Falls

  • Greyhound Bus Station - 40 miles from St. Croix Falls.

Other Options

  • Car rental is available at the airports and in nearby towns.
  • Amtrak train service is available in St. Paul, Minnesota.

How to Get Around in St. Croix Falls

The best way to get around St. Croix Falls is by car. Biking is also a popular option, with numerous bike trails and scenic routes to explore.

Where to Go Next from St. Croix Falls: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Taylors Falls, Minnesota - a charming town located just across the St. Croix River.
  • Stillwater, Minnesota - another historic river town located just south of St. Croix Falls.

Conclusion

St. Croix Falls is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Be sure to explore the parks, trails, and other outdoor attractions, and try some of the local food and beverages. With its small town charm and abundant activities, St. Croix Falls is a must-visit destination for any traveler.