The Lesser-Known State Park Where You Can View The Best Fall Foliage In Minnesota

With its location in the northern tier of states, the Land of 10,000 Lakes’ autumn colors tend to peak earlier than those in other regions with longer shoulder seasons. But there are still plenty of places where you can enjoy the splendor of the season well into October. One such spot is Wild River State Park, which not only tends to peak later than other areas in the state, it also offers up some of the best fall foliage in Minnesota.

Wild River State Park stretches for 18 miles along the St. Croix River in Chisago County, adjacent to St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, which is managed by the National Park Service in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Comprising more than 6,000 acres of hardwood and North Woods forest, prairie, and oak savanna, the park sits at a transition zone between two of the state’s four biomes.

What this means for fall foliage enthusiasts is a wide variety of autumn colors throughout the park, punctuated by pine, spruce and other evergreens.

Yellows and golds are the dominant colors at Wild River, especially before the foliage reaches its peak.

As the season progresses, you’ll start to notice splashes of orange and crimson against the saffron backdrop.

At peak, the foliage glows with an almost-otherworldly vibrance.

There’s really no better way to experience the foliage at Wild River State Park than a hike along one of the park’s many trails.

​​The River Trail Loop, for example, is an easy, 4.7-mile hike that showcases the park’s fall colors while serving up stunning river views.

Fall is a fantastic time for camping in Minnesota, and you can stay right in the park, enjoying the sights and smells of autumn from your site.

You’ll find more than 100 campsites at Wild River, many of which are open year-round. There are also six camper cabins that offer heat and electricity. Enjoy a crackling blaze in the fire ring, then retire to your cozy bunk in the heated cabin.

And when you stay in the park, you’ll get to enjoy the magnificent sunrises and sunsets over the St. Croix and park’s fiery foliage.

The park has many trails, including a couple open to horseback riding. You can learn more about them and download maps for offline use - cell service isn’t consistent across the entire park - from AllTrails Plus. As you’re hiking, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife that the park’s unique ecosystem attracts. I’ve even seen a black bear at Wild River!

Have you visited Wild River State Park in the fall? What are some of your favorite spots for fall foliage in Minnesota? Let us know in the comments!