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Saint Croix Boomsite

Angel Falls | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN | View enlarged image

Just up highway 95, the Boomsite has something for everyone. There are two Boomsite stops along highway 95 that are not actually connected. The only way between them is either car or bike. Heading North from downtown Stillwater, you'll come on the scenic overlook first. Situated on the bluffs over the St Croix River, the overlook commands a postcard-worthy view of downtown Stillwater, and is a popular spot to view the local Fourth of July fireworks display. The Boomsite recreational area is another mile down Highway 95.

There is a covered picnic area, phones, and other facilities located near the parking lot. Concrete steps lead down to the sandy shore of the scenic St. Croix River, where trails span miles along the river's edge. Walking the trails you will find natural springs, caves, and even a waterfall. If you come in Summer or early Fall, there are a lot of beautiful wildflowers, and a host of migrant birds, some of which make their nests right in the bluffs.

This is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. You will probably notice that the area is very sandy, and strewn with huge chunks of sandstone. The chunks of sandstone are deposited from the bluffs above, usually during the Spring flood. Over the years the rocks are worn down by wind, rain and river, until they crumble into sand that lines the shores.

The popular history of the Boomsite dates back to the days of early Stillwater, when logging was the biggest industry in town. Lumberjacks would cast lines from the bluffs of Minnesota to the bluffs of Wisconsin, and sort the logs or 'booms' sent down the river various lumber mills and trading posts. The only 'booms' that float down to the Boomsite now are driftwood, trees uprooted by spring flood which often collect in the lowlands along the bluffs.

Be advised; if you're going to visit the Boomsite, try to do it between May and October. The rocky trails aren't very hospitable in winter, and are almost completely underwater during the Spring floods. There are insects near the river, and a full tour of the hiking trail usually involves some clambering over fallen sandstone, so plan accordingly.

Directions:

Location: Highway 95 between Stillwater and Marine on St Croix.

From 694, take highway 36 East towards Stillwater. Take a left on 15 (Manning Ave). Take a right on highway 96. Take a left on 95. The Boomsite is about 4miles down 95. Both entrances are on your right and are marked with brown signs, the park itself is about 1/4 mile away from the scenic overlook.

Distance from St. Paul, MN: Approximately 26 Miles

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Great Blue Heron | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Leopard Frog | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Jewelweed | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Creeping Bellflower | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Evening Primrose | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Angel Falls | (8.45 MB MPEG-1 Video) | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Sluice in early Spring | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Fall Colors | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN Island, Scenic Photograph | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN     Scenic Photograph | Saint Croix Boomsite, MN

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