Minnesota’s network of canoe and kayak routes turns 50 this year. The St. Croix River was one of the initial four rivers designated as a “Water Trail” in 1963, meant to encourage Minnesotans to explore the state’s waterways.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has produced a series of short videos about the St. Croix and a few other select Minnesota rivers.

Watch the sections below, and then visit the DNR’s  “virtual tour” to continue planning your paddle.