St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola
A 7-mile scenic paddle through the dramatic St. Croix Dalles — a basalt gorge with 200-foot cliffs carved by the last ice age.
At a Glance
Distance
7 miles
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
Beginner
Route Type
One-Way
Water Body
St. Croix River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
The St. Croix is a National Scenic Riverway and one of the cleanest rivers in the upper Midwest. This section from Taylors Falls to Osceola passes through the dramatic St. Croix Dalles — a narrow basalt gorge carved during the last ice age.
The gorge section features 200-foot cliffs on both sides, creating a dramatic canyon paddle unlike anything else in Minnesota. Below the Dalles, the river widens into a more typical upper Midwest river with wooded bluffs and sandy beaches.
The St. Croix forms the Minnesota-Wisconsin border here, so you're literally paddling between two states. Eagles, osprey, and great blue herons are common. The river is clean enough for swimming at sandy beaches along the route.
Highlights
- •National Scenic Riverway
- •200-foot basalt cliffs in the Dalles
- •Paddle between Minnesota and Wisconsin
- •Clean enough for swimming at sandy beaches
Safety & Hazards
Trip starts below the Dalles rapids. The run itself is calm with occasional riffles. Powerboat traffic increases downstream. Current can be strong in spring.
Shuttle Information
Drop vehicle at Osceola Landing (WI side), then drive to Taylors Falls canoe landing (~15 min). Multiple outfitters offer shuttle service.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola?
- St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola is rated beginner difficulty. Trip starts below the Dalles rapids. The run itself is calm with occasional riffles. Powerboat traffic increases downstream. Current can be strong in spring.
- How long does St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola take?
- St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola covers 7 miles and typically takes 2-4 hours.
- Do I need a shuttle for St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola?
- St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola is a one-way route. Drop vehicle at Osceola Landing (WI side), then drive to Taylors Falls canoe landing (~15 min). Multiple outfitters offer shuttle service.
- When is the best time to paddle St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola?
- The best seasons for St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola are summer and fall. St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola is on St. Croix River.
- What activities are available on St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola?
- St. Croix River: Taylors Falls to Osceola supports Kayaking, Canoeing. Highlights: National Scenic Riverway, 200-foot basalt cliffs in the Dalles, Paddle between Minnesota and Wisconsin, Clean enough for swimming at sandy beaches.
Quick Facts
- Take-out
- Osceola Landing
- Water Body
- St. Croix River
- State
- Minnesota
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