Wisconsin St Croix National Riverway Travel Postcard

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, stretching along the border of Wisconsin and Minnesota, is one of the most pristine and scenic river systems in the Upper Midwest. Managed by the National Park Service, the Riverway encompasses over 200 miles of protected water, including the St. Croix River and its tributary, the Namekagon River. These rivers flow through a rich landscape of forests, bluffs, wetlands, and wildlife, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural history and ecological diversity. The Riverway is also significant as one of the first rivers designated under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1968. Recreational opportunities abound, especially for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and camping. Paddlers can enjoy everything from tranquil stretches to more spirited waters, while anglers seek out smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. Along the banks, visitors may spot bald eagles, otters, herons, and other native species. Numerous boat landings, campsites, and hiking trails make it easy to explore both water and land. The St. Croix Riverway is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a place of quiet beauty and conservation, preserving the natural rhythms of one of the Midwest’s last undammed river systems.