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National Scenic Riverway

Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

A blue river winds through a valley lined with trees in autumn color.

One of many beautiful views of the St. Croix River

Photo: NPS / Pete Wintersteen

About

Grab your paddle and your longing for adventure and head to the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers! Together they form the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, offering over 200 miles of clean water that glides and rushes through a forested landscape. Paddle, boat, fish, and camp among this wild and scenic beauty. Hiking and historic towns also beckon.

Activities

BoatingMotorized BoatingCampingCanoe or Kayak CampingFishingFreshwater FishingFly FishingHands-OnCitizen ScienceHikingHunting and GatheringHuntingPaddlingCanoeingCanoe or Kayak CampingKayakingJunior Ranger ProgramTubingWildlife WatchingBirdwatchingPark Film

Directions

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway stretches for over 200 miles in northwest Wisconsin and east-central Minnesota. The Namekagon River flows entirely in Wisconsin while the St. Croix River serves as a border between the two states for much of its length. With many different access points there are numerous opportunities for day trips as well as multi-day paddling adventures. Visitor centers are located on the Namekagon River in Trego, Wisconsin, and on the St. Croix River in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.

Get directions →

Weather

Access to the Riverway is year-round. Early spring temperatures can reach into the 40's resulting in high, fast, and cold water from melting snow and ice. Summers are warm and humid. Severe weather can be experienced anytime from mid-spring through late summer. Fall colors begin in late September with high temperatures averaging in the 60's. Winter can set in early with high temperatures in the teens, lows falling below zero, and occasional heavy snow. The rivers can begin to freeze over by early December.

News

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