Leaf color: 25-50% |
Flower color: past peak |
Grass color: 50-75% |
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Where to go: Wild River State Park is a beautiful place to see fall colors. Located just 1 hour from the Twin Cities, it makes for an easy weekday or weekend get-away.
Once you're here, you can't miss seeing the St. Croix River. You can park at the Visitor Center and walk the 1-mile Amik's Pond Trail for a sneak peek at the fall colors on this walk across the prairie, along the river, and under the hardwood canopy. If you'd rather, you can park at the boat landing to eliminate the walk. If you'd like to extend your walk, continue along the River Trail to Nevers Dam and the picnic area.
Wild River State Park is nestled uniquely on the southern edge of the pineland forests, northern edge of the hardwood forests, and because of the river offers beautiful prairie grasslands. These prairies are some of the most spectacular views of the park. Park at the Trail Center to see the vibrant Blazing star, pull off at the Prairie Observation Deck to get a panoramic view of the golden hues, or walk the Amador Prairie Loops to get a more up-close look at the insects and critters that are feeding on the fresh seed and remaining nectar.
What you'll see: We've had some additional rain in the last week. Generally,conditions are still somewhat dry. Many trees have begun to show color changes, and some have turned brown or dropped leaves prematurely. You'll find hints of yellow on the ash, ironwood trees, and birches along with the occasional crimson maple. Virginia creeper is quite colorful, and the sumac is vivid now. You may want to try a walk through the large bluestem grass on Amik's Pond trail or Amador Prairie Loop.
Acorns are dropping off oak trees, and squirrels are busy gathering their winter cache. Watch your head. The whitetail deer have already changed from red to their winter coat. It is often that you will catch a glimpse of them during a hike on one of our trails.
Just across from the Prairie Observation Deck, the 5-foot Indian grass will add flare to any photo. At the Trail Center you'll find the iconic sign of early fall in the bright red sumac.
The roadsides are lined with late-season flowers, some still showing their colorful heads. The prairies exhibit mostly sage and seeding grasses, along with a few remaining asters. But, look closer than the flowers and you'll be amazed at the insects and other critters throughout.
Also of interest: Wild River State Park makes for an easy day trip or offers a variety of camping options. Six camper cabins, a guest house, electric hook-up campsites, group campsites, backpack and canoe-in campsites, and equestrian camping are well-maintained and ready for you and your family or friends. To make a reservation, visit www.stayatmnparks.com.
Canoe rental is available Saturdays and Sundays 10 am - 3 pm or by appointment other days. For more information visit www.ericscanoerental.com.The Visitor Center is open 9 am - 4 pm Wednesday - Sunday and Interpretive programs are taking place weekly. For upcoming programs, visit www.mndnr.gov/wildriver.
Don't miss the 2nd Annual Wild River Run 5K on October 12, 2013! Take a walk or run under the fall colors and along the beautiful St. Croix River. Find a registration form at www.friendsofwildriver.org.
There is still room for you in the annual Snowshoe Lacing Workshop! Lace your own Ojibwe-style snowshoes with hands-on instruction during this fun and relaxing two-day workshop. For more details visit www.mndnr.gov/wildriver or call 651-583-2125 x227.
Last updated: October 4, 2013Can’t decide between a one-day or year-round park permit? The DNR has a special offer that can help. Start by purchasing a one-day permit for $5 and visit as many state parks as possible. After visiting the state parks, trade in the one-day permit by the end of that day and get $5 off the purchase of a year-round permit. Year-round permits, which cost $25, provide unlimited access to all 76 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas for a full year from the month of purchase.
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Getting there39797 Park Trail
From I-35, take State Highway 95 to County Road 12. Drive 3 miles on County Road 12 to the park entrance. Do not rely on a GPS unit to find the park's main entrance! GPS units direct you to the geographic center of the park (Sunrise Landing area), not to the main park entrance. Please consult a map or call the office if you need additional driving directions. |
ContactPhone: 651-583-2125 Email: wildriver.statepark@state.mn.us Best time to contact the park: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. |
More informationPark maps |
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