- Exploring the hidden gems of Western Wisconsin—curating unforgettable stays and sharing the places locals love most.
There’s a moment on almost every trail out here when you round a corner and the whole river valley opens up below you. The first time it happened to me, I actually stopped mid-sentence. Between towering bluffs, glacier-carved cliffs, quiet backwater mazes, and miles of smooth crushed-gravel trail, this corner of Wisconsin is made for getting outside.
Here’s where to hike, bike, and paddle from St. Croix Falls down to Nelson.
Wisconsin’s oldest state park is a must for hikers. The trails wind along the Dalles of the St. Croix, a dramatic gorge of dark volcanic cliffs, and there’s something for every level, from easy loops to steeper bluff climbs.
A friend who hiked about four miles here on a weekday morning said she passed only a couple of people the whole time. Quiet, rugged, and beautiful.
Trails to try: The Pothole Trail is short and fascinating, with giant holes carved into rock by glacial meltwater. For views, climb Summit Rock or the Red Cedar Trail along the bluffs. The Lake O’ the Dalles loop is an easy, peaceful walk.
Good to know: A Wisconsin state park pass is required. Some cliff edges have steep drop-offs, so watch your footing.
Right from downtown Osceola, a stairway drops into a hidden glen with a 25-foot waterfall. From the falls, follow the woodland trail along the creek toward the St. Croix, then climb up Eagle Bluff for sweeping river views. It’s a short hike with a big payoff, and you’re back downtown in time for lunch.
The hike down to Willow Falls is steep, but the waterfall at the bottom is one of the most beautiful in the state. Bring a swimsuit and cool off in the falls before the climb back up. For a longer hike, the Nelson Farm Trail winds through quiet woods and rolling hills.
Good to know: The hill to the falls is a serious climb on the way back, so take it slow and pack water.
The Kinni is one of the best-kept secrets near Prescott. From the bluff-top overlook, you can see the St. Croix stretching out below. Then take the trail down to a sandy beach where the Kinnickinnic River meets the St. Croix. The trails through the prairie below the bluffs are peaceful, and you’ll likely spot eagles and hawks overhead.
Good to know: State park pass required. Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach.
If you want the view, this is it. A loop trail through open prairie leads to the edge of Maiden Rock Bluff, towering high above Lake Pepin. A friend who hiked it on a clear fall day said she caught a freight train rolling along the shoreline far below, and she couldn’t stop taking pictures.
Good to know: The trail is a grassy, unpaved path with several side trails, so it can be a bit confusing. There’s little shade, so bring plenty of water, and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes in summer. Stay well back from the cliff edge. It’s a steep drop. Fall is the best time to go, when the grass is shorter and the colors are out.
The Gandy Dancer is a former railroad line turned smooth, crushed-gravel trail that starts right in St. Croix Falls and heads north through quiet countryside. It’s flat, safe, and peaceful, which makes it perfect for a relaxed ride.
Good to know: A Wisconsin state trail pass is required for riders 16 and older.
For mountain bikers, the Woolly trails are a local favorite, with twisting singletrack, obstacles, and skinnies. Most trails are moderate and above, but a friend rode the whole system with her 7- and 8-year-olds, walking a few tricky sections, and said the kids loved it.
Good to know: Signage can be confusing where the paved trail meets the mountain bike trails. Snap a photo of the map at the trailhead before you ride.
The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is one of the best paddling rivers in the Midwest, and Paddlefish Adventures makes it easy. The owner is a naturalist who shares the river’s geology and wildlife as you go, and the shuttle service takes the stress out of getting to and from the water.
A friend put in just north of Taylors Falls so she could paddle up to see the towering Dalles cliffs before heading downstream. Another took her 3-year-old, and they spent the afternoon lounging on sandbars. Paddlefish even had kid-sized life jackets ready.
Don’t miss: The moonlight paddle. Everyone who’s done it raves about it.
Good to know: Open Tuesday through Sunday during the season. Book ahead for larger groups.
The Kinni is a gorgeous, spring-fed trout stream with mild rapids and plenty of wildlife. River Guide Kayaks handles the gear, the basics, and the shuttle, so all you have to do is paddle. Friends who’ve gone say the kayaks are roomy and comfortable, and they spotted deer and all kinds of birds along the way.
Good to know: The Kinni can be a real challenge for beginners, especially after rain, when the water runs high and fast. Low water means more rocks to navigate. The outfitter will update you on conditions, so check in before you go.
For true explorers, the Tiffany Wildlife Area near the Chippewa River is a wild maze of backwater channels, bottomland forest, and wildlife. It’s untouched and adventurous, the kind of place where you might paddle for hours and see more herons than people.
Good to know: This is backcountry, so bring a map or GPS, and let someone know your route.
Make downtown Prescott your home base and book direct with us: The Port of Prescott for boutique king suites steps from the river, Port After Dark for romantic suites made for couples, The Harbor Hotel for themed rooms and extended stays, and The Cove Guest House for downtown condos and group getaways.
