Polk: River Landscapes, Trails and History

Along the western edge of Polk County, the St. Croix Wild and Scenic Riverway forms the boundary. Travelers can explore a range of interests, from river landscapes and trails to exhibits and regional history. Choose your hotel base according to the experiences you want to prioritize during your stay.

River and Shore

The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway encompasses more than 200 miles of clean water in a forested landscape. The current is calm in some places and fast in others. Possible activities along the Riverway include paddling, boating, fishing and camping. These options range from time on the water to making fishing and camping the main focus of a nature getaway.

At Straight Lake State Park, Rainbow Lake has an accessible fishing area along the shore. A nearly six-mile stretch of trail runs through the park, from the headwaters of the Trade River to Straight Lake and on to the Straight River. The fishing area and trail offer two specific ways to enjoy a nature-focused stay.

Trails and Seasons

Interstate Park is Wisconsin’s oldest state park, established in 1900. The 0.4-mile Pothole Trail is a loop at the western terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. It offers views of the Dalles of the St. Croix River gorge and potholes formed by glacial meltwater. The Lake O’ the Dalles Trail is a one-mile loop around the 23-acre lake and is used for wildlife viewing. Comparing the trail lengths reveals a clear difference: the Pothole Trail is shorter, while the loop around Lake O’ the Dalles is one mile long.

The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail follows a former railroad corridor for 14 miles. The route passes through maple and oak forests, wetlands, prairies and agricultural land, as well as seven scenic lakes. Its limestone surface and level grade are suitable for cyclists, walkers and joggers. In winter, the trail is open for ungroomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The activities listed therefore vary by season: the same trail offers activities on its limestone surface as well as two winter ways to get around.

D.D. Kennedy Park is a 106-acre nature preserve on Balsam Branch in central Polk County. It has 11 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails. The southern section of the Gandy Dancer State Trail offers a different scale: it runs for 47 miles through Wisconsin and the communities of Centuria, Milltown, Luck, Frederic, Siren and Webster. A state trail pass is required to cycle on the Gandy Dancer State Trail.

Geology, History and Local Products

The Ice Age Interpretive Center at Interstate Park includes an exhibit area, a classroom, an auditorium and a gift shop. Its exhibits cover Ice Age geology, the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), wildlife and Lake O’ the Dalles. Year-round interpretive programs are also offered, including guided hikes, wildlife programs and family-friendly activities. The exhibits and programs provide different ways to explore natural and cultural history.

The Polk County Museum is housed in the former Polk County Courthouse, built in 1899, and presents the history of Polk County across three floors. It fulfills its mission through programs, exhibits and research resources for the public. The former courthouse building and its educational offerings connect the county’s history with different ways to visit.

Polk County farmers’ markets offer seasonal produce, handcrafted goods and local specialties. Dates and participating vendors vary by season. If you’re planning a market visit, check the seasonal dates in advance.

Explore More Destinations

Luck, St. Croix Falls, Grant County, Calumet County, Langlade, St. Croix County, Milwaukee, Sauk County

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