Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

Calm waters surrounded by countless shades of green define Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway. Extending for 252 miles through Wisconsin and Minnesota, the riverway protects much of the St. Croix River and its largest tributary, the Namekagon River. Forested shorelines, islands, wetlands and rocky cliffs create a remarkably varied landscape along the water.

The St. Croix was one of the original eight rivers protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 2, 1968. The legislation created a national system to preserve selected free-flowing rivers possessing outstanding natural, scenic, recreational and cultural value. Additional sections of the Lower St. Croix were protected in 1972.

The riverway offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, camping, hiking and wildlife observation. Some sections provide gentle water suitable for quiet paddling, while others contain rapids and require greater experience. Numerous landings and riverside campsites allow visitors to explore the river in trips ranging from several hours to several days.

Although Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway crosses two states and includes hundreds of miles of protected shoreline, much of it retains a quiet and undeveloped character. Its preservation protects not only the rivers themselves but also the forests, wildlife habitats and historic communities connected to them.