St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail
A scenic paved loop trail offering stunning St. Croix River views and a unique walk across the impressive St. Croix Crossing bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic paved loop trail offering stunning St. Croix River views and a unique walk across the impressive St. Croix Crossing bridge.
"The St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail offers breathtaking river vistas and a memorable walk across a modern marvel."
🚗 Scenic Drive Detour
Take Old 61 from Stillwater to Sandstone for a beautiful drive before or after your trail visit. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is paved, but wear comfy shoes for walking or biking the full loop. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Croix River Views
Along the entire loop
Panoramic vistas of the mighty St. Croix River and its lush valley. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Interstate Bridge Crossing
The bridge itself
Experience walking or biking across the impressive St. Croix Crossing bridge, offering unique perspectives.
Minnesota & Wisconsin Scenery
Both sides of the river
Enjoy the distinct natural beauty and landscapes of both Minnesota and Wisconsin from one trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Scenic Route
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
By myself on this Thanksgiving...any know any scenic drives around the Twin Cities?
🚗 Scenic Drive Detour
Take Old 61 from Stillwater to Sandstone for a beautiful drive before or after your trail visit. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is paved, but wear comfy shoes for walking or biking the full loop. :athletic_shoe:
"Alternate" routes from The Cities to Duluth
Where is a fun place to drive?
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The river vistas and bridge perspectives are stunning.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water as amenities can be sparse along the loop. :droplet:
Where can I see some real hills within <2.5 hours from the Cities?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Detour
Take Old 61 from Stillwater to Sandstone for a beautiful drive before or after your trail visit. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The trail is paved, but wear comfy shoes for walking or biking the full loop. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The river vistas and bridge perspectives are stunning.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water as amenities can be sparse along the loop. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail for its stunning river views and the unique experience of walking across the impressive bridge. The paved, accessible path is a major plus for families and cyclists. Some note that amenities are sparse, so planning ahead with water and snacks is recommended.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible from both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides. Parking is available near the bridge approaches. For a scenic approach, consider taking the St. Croix Scenic Byway (Old 61) from Stillwater to the trail area.
Yes, there are parking areas on both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides of the bridge, providing access to the loop trail.
Yes, you can take exits from I-94 to reach the access points for the St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail on both sides of the river.
Many visitors recommend the St. Croix Scenic Byway (Old 61) for a more enjoyable drive with scenic overlooks.
Follow signs for the St. Croix Crossing bridge and look for designated trail access points and parking lots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail is a public multi-use path and is free to access.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk, but it's always a good idea to check local park or DOT advisories for any temporary closures.
There is no admission fee to walk, bike, or run on the St. Croix Crossing Loop Trail.
No reservations are needed as it's a public trail. It's first-come, first-served for parking and access.
The trail is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized users. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the trail itself.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can walk, jog, bike, or simply enjoy the scenic views of the St. Croix River and the surrounding landscape.
Yes, the trail is paved and generally flat, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly on the trail. It's advisable to use facilities at the parking areas before you start.
The loop trail is approximately 4.5 miles long, offering a good distance for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Dogs are generally allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers dramatic angles, and various overlooks along the river provide stunning panoramic shots of the valley.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the river and bridge. Midday can be bright but still offers clear views.
Look for designated pull-offs and overlooks on both sides of the river for the most impactful photo opportunities.
Landscape photography, architectural shots of the bridge, and nature photography are all excellent choices here.
Drone usage is subject to federal and local regulations. Check with the relevant authorities (e.g., FAA, state parks) before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a shorter out-and-back section if a full loop seems too ambitious. The novelty of walking across a major bridge is often a big hit with children. 🚴♀️ Cyclists and Runners
You can easily extend your ride by connecting to other local trails or exploring the scenic byway. Be mindful of pedestrians and other users, especially on busier days. 📸 Photographers
Aim for sunrise or sunset for the best light, capturing the golden hues reflecting off the water and the bridge. Look for unique angles from both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides to showcase the scale and beauty of the crossing. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The St. Croix Scenic Byway Experience
The byway is particularly stunning during the fall foliage season, when the hillsides explode in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Even outside of autumn, the lush greenery of spring and summer, or the stark beauty of winter, offer unique photographic opportunities. Plan for extra time to truly savor the experience, as the temptation to pull over at every scenic overlook will be strong.
Recommended Stops Along the Byway
* Stillwater, MN: A historic river town with a vibrant downtown, perfect for a pre-trail coffee or lunch.
* Marine on St. Croix, MN: A quaint village with unique shops and a picturesque setting.
* Taylors Falls, MN / St. Croix Falls, WI: Explore the Dalles of the St. Croix River for dramatic geological formations.
This scenic detour transforms the journey into an integral part of your St. Croix Crossing adventure.
Navigating the Loop Trail: Accessibility and Activities
Beyond simply traversing the path, the trail provides numerous opportunities for engagement with the natural environment. Birdwatching is popular, with various species frequenting the riverbanks and surrounding woodlands. The panoramic views of the St. Croix River are a constant companion, offering moments of tranquility and reflection. For cyclists, the loop provides a moderate workout with rewarding scenery.
Key Features for Visitors
* Paved Surface: Ideal for all mobility levels.
* River Vistas: Continuous scenic views of the St. Croix River.
* Bridge Perspectives: Unique vantage points from atop the St. Croix Crossing.
* Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see local birds and other small animals.
Remember to bring water, especially during warmer months, as amenities directly on the trail are limited.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit