Interstate State Park
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There is so much to do at Interstate State Park, located on the beautiful St. Croix River. Visitors can climb the cliffs of the St. Croix River Dalles, canoe the flat-water, watch kayakers rush through the rapids, or relax on an excursion boat. Spring brings a great diversity of wildflowers and in fall, the St. Croix River Valley forest is ablaze in the autumn colors of red, gold, and orange. The geology that formed this park intrigues visitors, and brings geologists from all over the world. At least 10 different lava flows are exposed in the park, along with two distinct glacial deposits, and traces of old streams valleys and faults. During the summer, hike the trails and explore the glacial potholes that make this park unique.
Tell me more about this park's wildlife, history, geology and landscape.
Visitor Alert!Updated May 9, 2013 Road Closure Notice Expect closures and detours on sections of Hwy 95 from North Branch to Taylors Falls through the summer. See the MN DOT website for more information. Expect narrow lanes during construction in downtown Taylors Falls through June. Facilities The visitor center is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends in May. Please self-pay for a vehicle permit at the north end of the park on weekdays. Trails Trails are in good condition. The Hwy 8 tunnel that links the Sandstone Bluffs and Railroad Trails with the River Trail is currently filled with ice and impassable. The Bake Oven pothole is currently closed due to ice coverage and will likely re-open in late May. Camping The campground facilities are open. Wildflowers This will be a great week for viewing spring wildflowers at the park. Hepatica, trout lily, Dutchman's breeches, and bloodroot are all blooming along the park trails. PlayCleanGo Day Saturday, June 8, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Join us at the visitor center and learn how you can help prevent the spread of terrestrial invasive species and protect our beautiful Minnesota natural resources. |
Park Notes
Learn about the geologic formations of the area and the world-famous glacial potholes here: Geology of Interstate State Park Interstate State Park Bird Checklist The Wildflower Checklist Online / Downloadable Walking ToursTake a walking tour of the Glacial Potholes at Interstate State Park Download Virtual Tour:Take a virtual tour. It's a great tool to help you plan your next trip to the park! Gift Cards:Purchase a Minnesota State Parks Gift Card Firewood Restrictions Information:Minnesota has enacted legislation that restricts firewood being brought to or used on DNR lands. Learn more and review vendor lists. |
Check out 13 minute guided photo tour of this unique environment only found in Minnesota. (Flash video, 38,721K) 
this tour in MP4 format (26,473K) to use on a portable music/video player such as an Apple video iPpod/iPhone or Microsoft Zune players. Park Highlights | ||||||
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Hours
Best time to contact the park:
Spring, Summer & Fall: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Winter: Hours will vary. If no one is available, please leave a message.
Contact
307 Milltown Road
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
tel: 651-465-5711
email: interstate.statepark@state.mn.us
Getting There
From the South: Take I-35 north. Take the Taylors Falls Exit, Hwy 8 East. Follow 8 approximately 22 miles. The entrance to the park office is located on the right hand side of the road 1 mile before downtown Taylors Falls.
From the North: Take I-35 south. Take the North Branch Exit, Hwy 95 East. Drive approximately 22 miles, passing through downtown Taylors Falls. At the stoplight, turn right, heading 95 South for approximately 1 mile. Turn left to the park office.
From the East: Take Hwy 8 west into Minnesota. After crossing the St Croix River, continue traveling on Hwy 8/95 South through the first stoplight. After approximately 1 mile turn left to the park office.