You Can Hike in Two States in One Day on This Wisconsin Trail

Wind skirting off the river as it whips around the paddleboats toodling through the water. Autumnal chills put the leaves metaphorically ablaze in a cascade of color, or the warmth of spring brings the littlest May flowers out from hiding. Hikers on all sides of the water flanking trail are taking in the sights from different vantage points. The fact is, there isn't a bad view when you're hiking the St. Croix Crossing Trail Loop. It is here that you can hike two states at once in Wisconsin and Minnesota, two neighbors prolonging an achingly long Midwestern goodbye by way of a shared river.

Trail Overview: Distance, Difficulty, and Scenic Highlights

While the notion of hiking across state lines sounds like an arduous task, the St. Croix Crossing Trail Loop is anything but. The entire trail loop is five miles long; however, it is fully paved with only a bit of uphill and downhill spots. The Stillwater, Minnesota, side of the trail is largely beside the water, while the Houlton, Wisconsin, side is a little more inland. Two bridges bring you up and across the river over the course of the loop, promising spectacular views along the Saint Croix River.

My favorite part about a trail like this is that it is well-equipped for someone who isn't very outdoorsy, like me. Since it's entirely paved, you don't have to worry about tripping over roots or tree branches or keeping an eye out for holes in the ground or poison ivy. Instead, you can simply enjoy the views.

Best Time To Hike This Wisconsin Trail for Weather and Views

The most obvious answer is that the best time to walk this cross-state trail is in the autumn or summer. In the fall, you're surrounded by crisp foliage in breathtaking shades of orange, yellow, and red. In the summer, there are all kinds of boats to watch on the river, with wildlife and flowers abounding. These are the times when more hikers are likely to join you to bask in the beauty of the Midwest at its best.

But I've never been fond of the obvious answer. I'd argue the best time of year to hike this trail is in the winter or spring, if the weather is safe (of course). The river, frozen over with a sheet of dimpled, snow-dusted ice, is silent—save for a few brave wild critters who may scamper over it. It stands as a bridge between the two states, linking them rather than separating them.

Meanwhile, the spring invites a host of other incredible sights. Bumble bees humming through freshly bloomed wildflowers and birds returning from their great winter journey. Early spring air, often still chilly in the morning, is my favorite time to go exploring outside. After a long winter tucked away at home, a casual stroll in the fresh air can bid the cabin fever adieu. Plus, you can stop in Stillwater for a visit before returning to my great childhood home state.

Looking to find more beautiful Wisconsin to explore? Try using the Only In Your State Travel Planner to get started on your itinerary.