Our northernmost route is named for the St. Croix River and actually takes you exploring throughout two major river valleys. While most of this route is located in Wisconsin, the portion in Minnesota has some amazing views and should not be missed. Due to this route’s proximity to the Twin Cities, it passes through some larger towns and cities than most of our other routes. But, the advantage is that you will have the opportunity to experience some of the great historic sites and waterside parks along the way. The St. Croix Route starts in Prescott, Wisconsin and follows the Mississippi River southeast before turning and zig-zagging north along the St. Croix River. In this part of the Driftless area, large bluffs give way quickly to rolling hills. Our St. Croix Route is designed to make maximum use of the biggest hills before they flatten out. Points of interest on this route include: Octagon House Museum, Willow River State Park, Lakefront Park, Pembles Beach, Kinnickinnic State Park, Glen Park, Swinging Bridge, Wardens House Museum, Stillwater Lift Bridge, Fairy Falls, St Croix Scenic Overlook, Stilllwater Cave, Arcola Mills, Point Douglas Park, and Afton Alps. In addition to the parks and other historic sites, this route provides access to Wisconsin Rustic Roads #13 and #92. The St. Croix Route, along with the Red Wing Fairbault Route, are the closest to the Twin Cities, and either are a great introduction to the Driftless Area.
Approximate Mileage: 230 Miles
Estimated Riding Time: 7 Hours
Road Surface: Paved
ATTRACTIONS:
Hudson: Octagon House Museum, St Croix County Historical Society, St Croix County Courthouse, Cracked Barrel Winery, Willow Falls, Willow River State Park, Lakefront Park, St Croix Railroad
River Falls: Pembles Beach, Kinnickinnic State Park, Glen Park, Swinging Bridge, Historic Train Depot
Stillwater: Washington County Courthouse Museum, Wardens House Museum, Historic Stillwater Lift Bridge, Fairy Falls, St Croix Scenic Overlook, Stillwater Rest Area, St Croix Boom Site, Stillwater Cave, Acrola Mills, Square Lake County Park
Point Douglas: Point Douglas Park
Afton: Afton Alps
Hastings: St Croix Bluffs Regional Park
Trimbelle: Trimbelle Public Fishing
Bayport: Lakeside Park
Rustic Roads #13, #92
A Paper Map is available for this route.
Motorcycle Rides, Red Wing, Hager City, Diamond Bluff, Trimbelle, Prescott, River Falls, Afton, Lakeland, Hudson, Stillwater, Marine on St. Croix, Minneapolis, St. Paul