Interstate State Park
Explore ancient lava flows, glacial potholes, and the stunning St. Croix River gorge across two states.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Interstate State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient lava flows, glacial potholes, and the stunning St. Croix River gorge across two states.
"Far exceeded my expectations. Don't consider myself to be hiker but some really cool history, scenic views, and nice short, trails that make for a good quick day trip."
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring rocky areas and ledges.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially when hiking longer trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Glacial Potholes
Wisconsin side
Marvel at these natural wonders carved by ancient glacial meltwater. A must-see geological marvel!
Dalles of the St. Croix Gorge
Both sides
Experience breathtaking views of the gorge carved by ancient glaciers. Stunning vistas await!
Silverbrook Falls
Wisconsin side
Discover a hidden 18-foot waterfall on a relatively flat, scenic trail. A peaceful natural escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Glacial Potholes
Two States, One Park
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring rocky areas and ledges.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially when hiking longer trails.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it great for furry friends!
💰 Day Parking Fee
A day parking fee applies, and the pass is valid for both MN and WI sides.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring rocky areas and ledges.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially when hiking longer trails.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it great for furry friends!
💰 Day Parking Fee
A day parking fee applies, and the pass is valid for both MN and WI sides.
🛶 Canoe/Kayak Rentals
Rentals and shuttle services are available for exploring the St. Croix River.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by Interstate State Park's unique geological features, particularly the glacial potholes and the scenic St. Croix River gorge. Many appreciate the park's beauty and the variety of trails, finding it a great spot for day trips and short hikes. Some note that while the park is beautiful, it can get busy, and exploring the rocky areas requires caution.
"I had never heard of Interstate State park and have lived mostly in Minnesota most of my life. So, for me personally on this Labor Day adventure the enjoyment for me was seeing a part of Minnesota I didn't know exist. I'm overweight and out of shape so was a bit intimidated by a lot of hiking. I did though see the visitor center and go a short way down the potholes trail near the visitor center. I was very impressed by what I saw and there were lots of people there and it was a short but fun enriching experience. It was nice to commune with nature and see these potholes. I'm truly amazed by the glacial potholes. I found inspiration for my fitness goals maybe to hike there someday. I will hopefully return and do a longer hike, camp etc. I really liked it there though and it was beautiful late summer weather. I highly recommend anyone check out this place."
Colette Erck
"Great detour we took. Far exceeded my expectations. Don't consider myself to be hiker but some really cool history, scenic views, and nice short, trails that make for a good quick day trip. You can cover a lot of ground in a pretty short amount of time."
Kevin Harrigan
"Stopped by after work, this place was recommended by coworker. I’m visiting from Houston and I love sight seeing.
It was not busy during my arrival on a Wednesday around 7pm. Paid 7 dollar for day parking. You can always enter through the Minnesota side also and the parking uses the same tag. Plenty of parking and I notice there’s a couple of park benches along the way.
Trails were very nice, easy for folks of all ages to trek. You can explore the rocky area at your own risk, I wouldn’t recommend it for kids unless you feel comfortable. This place is really beautiful and I wished I had more time to explore. Mother Nature is a true artist."
Sophoan Yem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Interstate State Park is located on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, straddling the St. Croix River. The Wisconsin side is in St. Croix Falls, WI, and the Minnesota side is in Taylors Falls, MN. It's about an hour's drive from the Twin Cities.
Public transport options are limited. Driving is the most common way to reach the park. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from nearby towns.
You can drive between the two sides, or for a more scenic route, consider canoeing or kayaking across the St. Croix River. A day parking pass is valid for both sides. +1
Yes, the towns of St. Croix Falls, WI, and Taylors Falls, MN, are adjacent to the park and offer lodging, dining, and other services.
It typically takes about 1 hour to drive from the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area to Interstate State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a day use parking fee, which is typically around $7-$10 per vehicle. This fee grants access to both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides of the park.
The park grounds are generally open year-round from 8 AM to 10 PM. Visitor centers may have different hours, so it's best to check the official park website for current operating times.
Yes, both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides offer campgrounds with various amenities. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
While there isn't a specific discount for entry, annual state park passes are available for frequent visitors, which can be cost-effective.
It's difficult to avoid the parking fee if you plan to park within the designated areas. Some visitors suggest parking further away and walking in, but this is not officially recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Pothole Trail (WI side) for its unique geological features, the Walter Mondale River Trail (MN side) for river views, and the Bluffs Trail for panoramic gorge vistas. +1
Absolutely! You can canoe, kayak, or paddleboat on the St. Croix River. Rentals and shuttle services are available.
Yes, it's a great family destination. Kids will be fascinated by the potholes, and there are easier trails suitable for younger hikers. Supervise children closely near rocky areas. +1
The park is home to various wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and small mammals. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed the animals.
Yes, both sides of the park offer designated picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for a scenic lunch. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The overlooks of the St. Croix River gorge, the unique glacial potholes, and Silverbrook Falls are prime photography locations. Capture the dramatic rock formations and river views.
Definitely. The dramatic gorge, the river, and the ancient rock formations provide excellent opportunities for landscape photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more dramatic atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views, while a macro lens can be useful for photographing the intricate details of the glacial potholes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The park also offers picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy a family meal amidst nature. Leashed dogs are welcome, so the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the adventure.
+1🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For those seeking longer treks, the park can accommodate day hikes of up to 15-20 miles by combining various trails, though it's not a primary destination for extensive backcountry camping. [^R] The ability to explore both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides adds variety to a solo trip.
+1 Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essential safety gear.📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the intricate details of the glacial potholes; a macro lens can be very useful here. Silverbrook Falls on the Wisconsin side offers a picturesque waterfall scene, while the various overlooks provide ample opportunities for landscape shots.
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive gorge views. The park's natural beauty ensures a constant stream of stunning photographic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvels: Glacial Potholes and the Dalles
Exploring these areas requires caution. The rocky terrain around the potholes can be slippery, and it's advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Many visitors are amazed by these natural wonders, finding them inspiring and a testament to the earth's history. The park's geological significance makes it a valuable educational destination as well as a beautiful recreational spot.
Exploring Both Sides: Minnesota vs. Wisconsin
The Minnesota side features the Walter Mondale River Trail, offering lovely views along the St. Croix River, and the Bluffs Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the gorge.
Many visitors enjoy comparing the two sides, with some preferring the rugged beauty of the Wisconsin potholes and others favoring the riverine trails of the Minnesota side.
+1 This duality adds an extra layer of exploration to your visit.Activities for Every Adventurer
For those who enjoy camping, both the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides have campgrounds, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature overnight.
Even if you're not an avid hiker, the park offers shorter, accessible trails and scenic overlooks that provide a rewarding experience. The park's diverse offerings ensure there's something for everyone, from the serious outdoors enthusiast to the casual day-tripper.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit