St. Croix Crossing Bridge - Image 1
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St. Croix Crossing Bridge

4.7
·98 reviews·Oak Park Heights, United States

An impressive modern bridge with a dedicated walkway offering scenic river views and historical insights.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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St. Croix Crossing Bridge - Image 1

St. Croix Crossing Bridge

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An impressive modern bridge with a dedicated walkway offering scenic river views and historical insights.

4.7
(98 reviews)

"The views from the bridge are spectacular and a well-maintained bathroom can be found on the Wisconsin side."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Minnesota Side Parking

Park on the Minnesota side for the shortest walk to the bridge's main walkway. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Wisconsin Side Hike

The Wisconsin side offers a longer, scenic hike down to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Observation Decks

Observation Decks

North side walkway

Take a break and soak in panoramic views of the St. Croix River. Perfect for photos and appreciating the scale of the crossing.

Historical Plaques

Historical Plaques

North side walkway

Learn about the history and significance of the St. Croix River and its crossings through informative signage.

The Bridge Itself

The Bridge Itself

St. Croix River

An impressive feat of modern engineering, the bridge offers unique perspectives and photo opportunities.

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Planning Your Visit

Parking & Access Points

Choose your entry wisely! Parking on the Minnesota side is closer to the bridge itself, while the Wisconsin side offers a longer hike down. Consider your energy levels and photo goals before you arrive.

Embrace the Walkway

Don't just drive over it! The dedicated walking and biking path offers spectacular views. Plan for a stroll to truly appreciate the St. Croix River and the bridge's impressive structure.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Minnesota Side Parking

Park on the Minnesota side for the shortest walk to the bridge's main walkway. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Wisconsin Side Hike

The Wisconsin side offers a longer, scenic hike down to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The day was perfect for pictures! Views are spectacular. :camerawithflash:

🚻 Restroom Available

A well-maintained bathroom is conveniently located on the Wisconsin side. :toilet:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Minnesota Side Parking

Park on the Minnesota side for the shortest walk to the bridge's main walkway. :car:

🚶‍♀️ Wisconsin Side Hike

The Wisconsin side offers a longer, scenic hike down to the bridge. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The day was perfect for pictures! Views are spectacular. :camerawithflash:

🚻 Restroom Available

A well-maintained bathroom is conveniently located on the Wisconsin side. :toilet:

🛶 Boat Ramp Access

Excellent boat ramp with ample parking available. :rowboat:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(98 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the St. Croix Crossing Bridge for its impressive engineering and the dedicated walkway offering scenic river views. The observation decks and historical plaques add an educational element, making it a pleasant spot for a walk or bike ride. Some find the highway noise noticeable, but the overall experience is considered positive and worthwhile.

"While I've driven over this bridge countless times, I've always wanted to walk across it. We started on the Wisconsin side so had a bit of a hike down to the bridge proper. We stopped at the first overlook area and then decided to hike back to the car. When I come with my boys, I think I will plan to park on the Minnesota side as its closer to the bridge itself. The day was perfect for pictures and the temperature was just right. The views from the bridge are spectacular and a well-maintained bathroom can be found on the Wisconsin side."

Margaret Roslik

"Excellent boat ramp with 35 parking spots!"

Loren Evers

"Borderline in the middle of the St Croix River on the Highway 36 Bridge between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Walking and biking path on the north side of the bridge with observation decks and historical plaques."

Scot Egg

What People Like

Spectacular river views
Well-maintained walkway
Impressive bridge architecture

What People Dislike

Highway traffic noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parking on the Minnesota side is generally closer to the bridge's walkway, making for a shorter approach. The Wisconsin side also offers parking but involves a longer hike down to the bridge itself. Reddit

Yes, there is a dedicated walking and biking path on the north side of the bridge, offering a pleasant way to experience the crossing. Reddit

Access points are available from both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides. The Minnesota side is often preferred for its proximity to the main walkway. Reddit

Information on public transportation directly to the bridge is limited. Driving is the most common method of access. Check local transit schedules for nearby towns like Stillwater.

The bridge is part of Highway 36, connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin. Use GPS navigation for the most direct route to your preferred parking area on either side.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to walk or bike on the St. Croix Crossing Bridge walkway. It is freely accessible to the public. Reddit

The walkway is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a public thoroughfare, so hours are not strictly enforced like a park. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary. The walkway is open to all visitors. Reddit

While generally open, be mindful of traffic noise as it is a highway bridge. Stick to the designated path for your safety. Reddit

The walkway is paved and generally well-maintained, making it accessible for most. Specific accessibility details may vary, but it's designed for public use. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy spectacular views of the St. Croix River from observation decks, read historical plaques, and admire the bridge's architecture. It's a great spot for a walk or bike ride. Reddit

Yes, a well-maintained bathroom facility is available on the Wisconsin side of the bridge. Reddit

As it is a highway bridge, there can be some noise from traffic. However, the observation areas offer a good vantage point to enjoy the views despite the sound. Reddit

Fishing from the bridge itself is generally not recommended or permitted due to safety and traffic. However, there is an excellent boat ramp nearby on the Wisconsin side. Reddit

The St. Croix Loop Trail is a fully paved bike and walk path that encircles the bridge, connecting to downtown Stillwater. It's a popular route for cyclists and walkers. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Daytime offers the best natural light for capturing the bridge and river views. Consider early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds. Reddit

You can capture wide-angle shots of the bridge's impressive structure, scenic river vistas, and details from the historical plaques. The observation decks provide excellent vantage points. Reddit

The observation decks along the north side walkway are ideal for panoramic shots. Experiment with different angles from the walkway itself. Reddit

Drone usage may be restricted due to its proximity to highway traffic and potential airspace regulations. Always check local FAA guidelines before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge's scale. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant river views. A tripod can help with low-light shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The St. Croix Crossing Bridge offers a straightforward and engaging outing for families. The paved walkway is easy for kids to navigate, whether they're walking or riding bikes. The observation decks provide a fun way for children to see the river and the impressive bridge structure from a safe distance. Reddit

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The restroom on the Wisconsin side is a convenient stop. While the bridge is a highway, the dedicated path keeps children safe from traffic. It's a great spot for a short, active adventure that combines a bit of exercise with scenic views. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Bikers

The St. Croix Crossing Bridge is a fantastic segment for cyclists, especially as part of the St. Croix Loop Trail. This fully paved path offers a smooth and enjoyable ride, connecting the bridge to downtown Stillwater. The bridge's walkway is wide enough to accommodate bikes comfortably, and the views are a great reward for your efforts. Reddit

Whether you're doing a short out-and-back on the bridge or completing the entire loop, the well-maintained path ensures a pleasant cycling experience. Remember to be courteous to pedestrians and be aware of your surroundings, as it is a shared space. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Walkway

The St. Croix Crossing Bridge isn't just a way to get from point A to point B; it's an experience in itself, thanks to its well-designed pedestrian and bicycle path. This walkway, situated on the north side of the bridge, offers a unique perspective of the St. Croix River and the surrounding landscape. Travelers often highlight the pleasantness of taking a walk here, even with the ambient noise of highway traffic. The path is described as very new and very well maintained, making it a comfortable experience for all visitors. Reddit

Along the walkway, you'll find strategically placed observation decks that provide stunning panoramic views. These are perfect spots to pause, take in the scenery, and capture some memorable photographs. Informative historical plaques are also dotted along the path, offering insights into the region's past and the significance of the river. This combination of scenic beauty and educational content makes the walkway a worthwhile destination for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Reddit

Parking and Access Strategies

Deciding where to park for your visit to the St. Croix Crossing Bridge can significantly impact your experience. Based on traveler feedback, parking on the Minnesota side is often recommended as it places you closer to the main bridge walkway, minimizing the initial walk. This is particularly appealing if you're short on time or prefer a more direct approach to exploring the bridge. Reddit

Conversely, parking on the Wisconsin side involves a longer hike down to the bridge proper. While this might require more effort, it can be a more scenic approach for those who enjoy a bit of a trek. Regardless of your choice, the bridge is a destination that rewards exploration, and having a plan for parking can help you make the most of your visit. Reddit

For those interested in water activities, an excellent boat ramp with 35 parking spots is also available on the Wisconsin side, catering to boaters looking to access the St. Croix River. Reddit

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