Nestled along the St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin, St. Croix Valley offers scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and peaceful reflection. Discover local attractions, dining, and lodging—plus memorial options in the serene St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest.
Things to Do in St. Croix Valley
Nestled along the scenic St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin, St. Croix Valley is a year-round destination where natural beauty meets outdoor adventure. From paddling the National Scenic Riverway to skiing pristine slopes, this region offers something for every season. Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities or peaceful reflection, St. Croix Valley provides the perfect backdrop for both celebration and remembrance.
Things to Do in St. Croix Valley
Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours
Cruise through dramatic gorges and learn about the river’s geology on narrated excursions along the St. Croix River.
Trollhaugen Snow Tubing Park
Experience exhilarating downhill tubing on groomed lanes perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Trollhaugen Ski Area
Enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding on 24 runs with night skiing available for extended winter fun.
Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway
Take a scenic 90-minute ride through the picturesque St. Croix River Valley aboard vintage railcars.
Wild Mountain
Challenge yourself on aerial courses, ziplines, and alpine slides, or relax on the lazy river at this adventure park.
Wild Mountain Ski Area
Hit the slopes at this Taylors Falls ski destination featuring terrain for all skill levels and family-friendly amenities.
Polk County Cross Country Skiing
Explore miles of groomed trails through pristine winter landscapes perfect for Nordic skiing enthusiasts.
Gammelgården Museum of Scandia
Discover Swedish heritage through historic buildings, artifacts, and cultural programs celebrating Scandinavian immigrants.
Warden’s House Museum
Step into this 1853 residence featuring period furniture and exhibits on the Civil War, lumber industry, and prison history.
Teddy Bear Park
Let children play in this whimsical park featuring teddy bear-themed playground equipment and family picnic areas.
Willow River State Park
Explore 3,000 riverside acres with a stunning waterfall, Little Falls Lake, swimming beach, and canoeing opportunities.
William O’Brien State Park
Hike wooded trails and paddle on the St. Croix River at this scenic park offering camping and fishing.
Franconia Sculpture Park
Wander through 50 acres of outdoor contemporary sculpture installations in this free, artist-driven destination.
Where to Stay in St. Croix Valley
LakePlace B&B
Experience personalized hospitality at this charming bed and breakfast overlooking scenic lakefront views.
St. Croix Valley Inn
Stay at this comfortable inn offering convenient access to area attractions and riverfront activities.
Holiday Inn Express St. Croix Valley
Enjoy modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and family-friendly accommodations near outdoor recreation.
Where to Eat & Drink in St. Croix Valley
Amery Ale Works
Craft brewery serving locally-made ales alongside casual pub fare in a welcoming taproom atmosphere.
Balsam Lake Brewery & Market
Microbrewery and market featuring house-brewed beers, artisan goods, and community gathering space.
Bunnycup Winery
Family-owned winery producing fruit wines in a rustic tasting room surrounded by northern Wisconsin countryside.
Trap Rock Brewing Company
Craft brewery and restaurant serving innovative beers and elevated comfort food near Interstate State Park.
Uncommon Loon Brewing Company
Neighborhood brewery crafting creative ales and lagers with rotating seasonal offerings and food trucks.
Château St. Croix Winery
Award-winning winery producing estate-grown wines with tasting rooms offering river valley views.
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Boutique winery specializing in fruit wines made from locally-sourced ingredients in an intimate setting.
Deer Lake Winery
Small-batch winery crafting unique fruit and grape wines perfect for tasting with friends.
Rustic Roots Winery
Farm winery producing handcrafted wines from Minnesota-grown grapes in a scenic rural location.
Wild Mountain Winery
Winery featuring locally-made wines and live music in a relaxed atmosphere near outdoor recreation.
Winehaven Winery & Vineyard
Estate winery and vineyard offering tours, tastings, and events among rolling grape-covered hills.
Did you know? At Everis, we offer Memorial Trees in the St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest. Talk to a Guide today to plan ahead or spread the ashes of your loved one in the St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest.
St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest
St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest spans 112 acres with 2,500 feet of pristine lakefront on Fish Lake in Scandia, Minnesota—the first conservation memorial forest in the Midwest, just 45 minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul.
What Makes St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest Special:
- Stunning Lakefront – Unparalleled lake views and privacy
- Lush Greenery – Red oak, red maple, white oak trees with canopy-covered trails
- Conservation Area – Gorgeous, mature forest with unique biodiversity and ecology
- Abundant Wildlife – White-tailed deer, songbirds, bald eagles eagles, and diverse ecosystem
Memorial Options Available:
- Memorial Trees (dedicated trees for families and pets)
- Spreading Groves (shared peaceful areas)
- Custom Memorial Markers
- Guide-led or self-led nature memorial ceremonies
