The best running trails in St. Croix County

St. Croix County offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 40 different options available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy riverside paths to more challenging trails with significant elevation changes.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain in St. Croix County. Routes often feature the picturesque St. Croix River Valley with bluffs and ravines, extensive forested areas including oak woodlands and pine plantations, and restored prairies and savannas. Some areas, like Interstate Park, even offer unique glacial formations and basalt cliffs for a more rugged experience. You can find everything from paved paths to off-road trails.

Yes, St. Croix County is home to beautiful natural features. A popular option is the Willow Falls loop from Willow River State Park, which leads directly to the scenic Willow Falls. The region also boasts the St. Croix River Valley with its bluffs and deep ravines, and numerous lakes like Perch Lake and Glen Lake.

Many trails in St. Croix County are suitable for families. For an easy, paved option with tranquil river views, consider the Hudson Lakefront Park Trail. The St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail is also a great choice, connecting Houlton, Wisconsin, and Stillwater, Minnesota, and is open to pedestrians and bicycles, offering excellent views of the St. Croix River.

Many parks and trails in St. Croix County are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary by specific location. It's always best to check the rules for the particular park or trail you plan to visit. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most state and county parks.

Yes, St. Croix County offers several excellent circular running routes. A notable one is the Stillwater Lift Bridge – St. Croix Crossing Bridge loop from Stillwater, which provides a moderate 6.5-mile path crossing both historic and modern bridges over the St. Croix River. Another option is the Willow Falls loop from Willow River State Park.

For longer runs, the St. Croix River loop from Afton State Park is a challenging 14.0-mile trail offering expansive views. The Gandy Dancer State Trail, particularly the southern segment from St. Croix Falls, offers a 47-mile crushed limestone surface, ideal for extended runs or bike rides.

Absolutely. The Stillwater Lift Bridge – St. Croix Crossing Bridge loop from Stillwater crosses both the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge and the modern St. Croix Crossing Bridge, offering unique perspectives of the river. The St. Croix Crossing Bridge itself has three scenic overlooks. Additionally, Eckert Blufflands Park provides over a half-mile of St. Croix River shoreline with wooded bluffs and deep ravines.

The running routes in St. Croix County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 4 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, from the scenic St. Croix River Valley to the peaceful woodlands and open prairies, and appreciate the variety of options for different ability levels.

Yes, St. Croix County has several easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed run. The Hudson Lakefront Park Trail is a paved, easy 1.2-mile trail with tranquil views along the St. Croix River. Many sections of the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail are also relatively flat and accessible, providing a pleasant experience.

Many parks and trailheads in St. Croix County offer designated parking areas. For specific details on parking and public transport availability, it's recommended to check the individual park websites or local county resources. The St. Croix County Parks Department website (sccwi.gov/333/Parks) can be a good starting point for general park information.

Beyond the well-known parks, areas like the Bayport Prairie offer trails with sweeping views of the St. Croix River, providing a more secluded experience. Brown's Creek Preserve also features well-maintained paths through wetlands, meadows, and hardwoods with gentle hills, often less crowded than major attractions.