St. Croix 360

River stories to inspire stewardship.

  • Share News
  • Event Calendar
  • About
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
  • Support

Viewing fall colors on the Namekagon River

Tips for enjoying autumn's splendor along the St. Croix's largest tributary — a wild and wonderful river.

By St. Croix 360 | September 18, 2020 | 3 minute read

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Email
  • Print
  • More
  • LinkedIn
  • Tumblr
  • Pocket
  • Telegram

Via Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National Park:

(Photo courtesy Namekagon River: Wisconsin’s Moving National Park)

If you live or visit Wisconsin in the fall, then you know that it is a must to take some time to stop and admire the vibrant fall colors that surround you. Wisconsin boasts some of the most beautiful views of fall foliage in the entire nation, so where do you begin?

If you’re a fan of paddling, the Namekagon River offers breathtaking views of autumn that can be seen straight from your kayak or canoe. Being mostly undeveloped, the majority of the Namekagon River remains in its most natural state possible, providing miles of unsurpassed beauty. Paddlers can launch into the river at the Namekagon Dam Landing and travel as far south as the Riverside Landing.

Not a huge fan of being on the water? The biggest tip we have to offer is to do something you love while viewing the fall foliage. Do you enjoy fishing? Cast a line along the Namekagon and admire the bright colors from the riverbank as you wait for a bite. Is driving more your style? Drive along the winding roads that run along the river for captivating views – just be sure to slow down now and then to really take in the incredible scenery.

If you’re doing something you enjoy, it will make your experience that much more memorable. The good thing about the Namekagon River? There is a little something for everyone. 

Reconnect with nature as you explore the park. The cooler months leading up to winter are usually less busy with travelers; however, the wildlife you encounter can still be robust. Bring your binoculars and birding books as you explore the area! Be on the lookout for migrating birds such as warblers, nighthawks, broad-winged hawks, and spotted sandpipers as they make their way south.

In addition, many of the local animals are preparing for winter. Abundant species include bald eagle, deer, multiple species of turtle, black bear, chipmunk, raccoon, beaver, muskrat, and otters. You never know what incredible wildlife you’ll come across as you take in the vibrant colors of fall. 

When will the leaves begin to change? Stay up to date with the ever-changing foliage at the Fall Color Report from Travel Wisconsin. Generally, the colors will begin to start changing mid-September throughout October. However, this all depends on the weather leading up to the change, and every year seems to be a little different.

Hiking, biking, paddling, fishing – there’s not much that you can’t do as you spend the day at the park. If you are feeling a little overwhelmed, order your Namekagon River brochure to help begin trip planning. This brochure includes all three Namekagon River maps along with the paddling guide which describes each stretch of the river so you can choose the best possible area for your trip.

If you have any questions, be sure to stop by the Washburn County Visitor Center in Spooner, Cable Area Chamber of Commerce, or the Hayward Lakes Visitor Center for more information.* The park rangers are a great resource to provide you with details and secrets that will make your trip one that you will never forget. 

*The Namekagon River Visitor Center is currently closed down due to COVID-19.

Related articles:

Follow

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Features

Two inches and 6,000 gallons: A swollen century on the St. Croix River

Cold comfort

New preserve will let students, community, and anglers experience the Kinnickinnic River

St. Croix 360 is now 100% supported by readers.

Click here to contribute →

 

Latest News

Stillwater restaurant’s trees spared as construction starts on new walkway

Interstate Park and Ice Age Trail prove popular during pandemic

River Falls reservoir drawn down for good after dam damaged by flood

City on lower St. Croix considers housing ordinance in conflict with river rules

St. Croix forestry conference will connect people working for watershed woods

Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
To find out more, including how to control cookies, see here: Cookie Policy

About

St. Croix 360 builds support for river stewardship, and connects people and organizations. It is an independent news source produced by Greg Seitz, with past support from the St. Croix River Association.

Donate to St. Croix 360 today »

Story of 360

One of the biggest challenges facing the St. Croix River is harmful blooms of algae in in the lower river, due to excess nutrients in runoff. The goal is to restore the river by reducing phosphorus levels to 360 tons/year. Learn more »

Share Your News

St. Croix 360 is powered by a broad community of St. Croix River-loving people. Please visit our submission page to send tips, press releases, and other news.

Submit an Event

Lower St. Croix: St. Croix 360 partners with online calendar St. Croix Splash.

  • Submit your events to Splash.
  • Share it with St. Croix 360 for promotion.

For events elsewhere in the watershed, contact St. Croix 360 directly.

St. Croix 360 Syndication

To help increase awareness of the St. Croix River, news organizations and other outlets are free to share St. Croix 360 content, as long as you follow a few simple rules.

Republish St. Croix 360 stories »

Partners

  • St. Croix River Association
  • St. Croix Watershed Research Station
  • ArtReach St. Croix
  • You and all St. Croix 360's readers!
Handcrafted in May Township, Minnesota. Please contribute today »
loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.