During our recent Minnesota adventure, we explored the St. Croix Boom Site in Stillwater, Minnesota. We found our hike along sandstone cliffs to have a bit of a welcome challenge and beautiful views. With very few other visitors, we enjoyed nature totally in peace.
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| Sandstone cliffs along the St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minnesota sculpt a unique landscape. |
To access the trail, we parked at the historical marker and descended the stairs down towards the St. Croix River shore. Immediately, we noted the weathered, sandstone cliffs, tranquil river, and sandy beach. Some of the sandstone cliffs bear graffiti but for me it did not seem to take away from the site. The entire site was so interesting, it beckoned for wandering from the start!
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| Beautiful view of the meandering St. Croix River from the St. Croix Boom Site. |
Much of trail hugged the sandstones cliffs. However, there were some offshoots along the beach. The trail was quite a mix of rocky, sandy, and muddy with tree roots. This is the type of trail that you will want to take your time on in spots. But, we certainly enjoyed the beautifully rugged landscape!
At a variety of points, we did notice little streams of water gently trickling down the bluff or even out from the rocks into the river below. Additionally, we found deep carved out sections of sandstone. Truly an intriguing place to explore!
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| Water meandering gently from the bluffs over smoothed rocks towards the river. |
What is the Boom Site?
So, what exactly is a "boom site?" The St. Croix Boom Site was the terminal point for the region's logging industry. It served as a check point where the logs were sorted, collected, scaled, and rafted. Additionally, stumpage could be purchased to be moved and milled. The site was above the St. Croix River. The logs were white pine which are buoyant and can be floated downriver. The white pines were not from the adjacent area but from areas along tributaries entering the river upstream. The Boom Site was created in 1856 and was active for 58 years.
Wildlife at the St. Croix Boom Site
The St. Croix Boom Site offers a great location for birding as well -- especially if you are looking for waterfowl! We spied an egret dozing off in a tree. Additionally, we saw turtles, rabbits, and more. I would suggested spending some time just observing.
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| An egret rests in a dead tree branch above wetlands along the St. Croix River. |
There is a waterfall within the preserve. However, we did not make it all the way there due to a tree obstructing the trail in a way that we could not maneuver around it safely. I have also read from other hikers that it was more of a trickle during their recent visit. There is a bit of a gate and a graffiti warning that says "turn back." Not to worry -- you can continue on. The waterfall is said to be not too far from there.
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| Spectacular view of the St. Croix River from Boom Site Overlook in Stillwater, Minnesota. |
While we did not make it to the waterfall, we enjoyed our hike at the St. Croix Boom Site. Hiking along sandstone bluffs treated us to some entirely unique views. With very few other hikers, we were able to take on the trails at a leisurely pace leaving us time to observe and enjoy the natural treasures within the preserve. Although the trail is fairly short, the ruggedness may slow down your pace. I found this slower pace to be welcome to better enjoy the preserve!
If you venture out to the St. Croix Boom Site, be sure to also stop at the overlook for an amazing view of the St. Croix River! Truly spectacular! With the great views, the site is also a wonderful spot of a picnic.
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