WI Interstate State Park
Wisconsin’s Oldest State Park!
Wisconsin Interstate State Park, situated in Polk County along the scenic St. Croix River, holds the distinction of being the oldest state park in Wisconsin, having been established in 1900. This historic park is not only renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, but also for its remarkable geological features associated with the Ice Age. The park showcases dramatic glacial formations, including deep potholes carved into basalt rock by powerful meltwater thousands of years ago. Visitors can explore hiking trails with breathtaking views of the river gorge, camp under the stars, or learn about the region’s glacial history at the park’s interpretive center.
Interstate State Park is also home to the Western Terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail – a 1,200 mile footpath that stretches across the entire state of Wisconsin.
Interstate State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike.
A state park pass is required for entry.
1275 State Highway 35
St. Croix Falls, WI 54024
715-483-3747
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Friends of Interstate and Straight Lake Parks is a non-profit organization established to support the park’s naturalist program in its efforts to increase public awareness and appreciation of the park’s natural and cultural history.
– Trails at Interstate Park, Wisconsin –
Pothole Trail
The western terminus of the 1,200-mile National Scenic Ice Age Trail begins right here on the Pothole Trail in Wisconsin’s Interstate Park. This short but geologically rich loop is the most unique trail in the park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s glacial past. Hike past world-famous glacial potholes carved by ancient meltwaters and walk atop the iconic Old Man of the Dalles rock formation. The trail also features stunning overlooks of the Dalles of the St. Croix River gorge, making it a must-see for geology lovers and sightseers alike.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Surface: Gravel, stone stairs, uneven terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length: 0.4-mile loop
Horizon Rock Trail
Part of the official National Scenic Ice Age Trail, this route connects the Pothole Trail to the Ice Age Center. The trail begins in a cool, damp creek bed and climbs gradually along a wooded bluff to Horizon Rock—a high, dry overlook where prairie plants flourish. True to its name, Horizon Rock offers sweeping views of the St. Croix River Valley and features a historic stone shelter, perfect for taking in the scenery. From the shelter, the trail continues on to the Ice Age Center.
Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven terrain
Pass Required: Yes
Length: 0.5 miles (linear)
Highlights: Scenic overlook from historic stone shelter, segment of the official Ice Age Trail
Meadow Valley Trail
Meadow Valley Trail offers a scenic route through a former glacial meltwater riverbed, now transformed into a lush, shaded valley filled with ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. It connects the Horizon Rock Trail to the Beach parking area via the steep and winding Talus Slope Trail, which descends the bluff beneath the Horizon Rock Shelter. This short but rewarding hike takes you through diverse terrain and showcases the unique geological and ecological features of the park.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length:3-mile linear
- Highlights: Switchback descent through talus slope, glacial valley flora
Summit Trail
Climb to the highest point on the Wisconsin bluffs for breathtaking views of the St. Croix River gorge. From the trailhead, follow the path through Canyon Valley and continue right at the intersection to reach the Summit. Along the way, enjoy a stunning vantage point of the iconic Old Man of the Dalles rock formation, visible high above the river and upriver from the Pothole Trail overlook. After reaching the Summit, stay left at the next intersection to loop back to the trailhead, or head right to connect with the Echo Canyon Trail for further exploration.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, steep terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length:5-mile loop
- Highlights: Highest point on the bluffs, panoramic river gorge views
Echo Canyon Trail
This scenic trail connects the Summit Rock Trail to the Lake O’ the Dalles Trails, guiding hikers through a dramatic landscape shaped by ancient glacial forces. After leaving the Summit, the trail descends sharply into Echo Canyon—an extinct riverbed carved by powerful glacial meltwaters. The steep, rocky talus slopes of the canyon walls create a naturally cooler microclimate, making it a refreshing and rugged part of the hike. The trail ends at the north shore of Lake O’ the Dalles, where it meets the lakeside trail network.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, steep terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length:5-mile linear
- Highlights: Steep rocky canyon slopes, glacially carved riverbed
River Bluff Trail
Connecting with the Lake O’ the Dalles Trail on the lake’s north shore, the River Bluff Trail leads hikers through a diverse landscape of canyon walls and quiet ponds before reaching the dramatic edge of the lower gorge. From there, the trail makes a steep 60-foot descent in elevation, winding down from the bluff to the River Bottoms Picnic Area. This short but challenging trail offers a rewarding mix of geological features and scenic transitions from high bluff to riverside forest.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, steep terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length:4-mile linear
- Highlights: Steep rocky descent, bluff-to-river elevation change
Lake O’ the Dalles Trail
This scenic wildlife-viewing loop circles the 23-acre Lake O’ the Dalles and connects key park areas including the Beach, River Bottoms Picnic Area, and Camp Interstate Shelter. Along the way, hikers can enjoy peaceful lake views, birdwatching opportunities, and access to several park amenities. A short 40-yard section of the trail follows the park road where it crosses Dalles Creek via a small bridge. This trail is perfect for a leisurely walk with plenty of nature and lakeside charm.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length: 1-mile loop
- Highlights: Accessible fishing pier, beach house, swimming beach
Eagle Peak Trail
This trail leads to the highest point in the park, offering stunning views overlooking the valley below. Starting at the Pines Group Camp, hikers ascend 120 feet in elevation to reach Eagle Peak. From the summit, you can either return to the Group Camp or continue onward to the South Campground, passing by a historic 1930s CCC traprock quarry along the way.
- Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven and steep terrain
- Pass Required: Yes
- Length:6-mile linear
- Highlights: Scenic observation point with bench
Skyline Nature Trail
The longest trail in the park, Skyline Nature Trail also forms part of the National Scenic Ice Age Trail. It connects the Pines Group Camp to the Ice Age Center and intersects with the Ravine Trail along the way. The route gently climbs past rocky ravines, leading to the forested rim of the valley where scenic views await.
Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate
Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven terrain
Pass Required: Yes
Length: 1.2-mile linear
Highlights: Longest trail in the park, official segment of the Ice Age Trail
Ravine Trail
This trail connects the Skyline Trail to the Beach parking area, descending 260 feet from the valley rim through lush ferns and old-growth forest. Along the way, hikers will find a historic stone shelter built in the 1930s, offering a perfect spot to rest and take in the surroundings.
Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Surface: Hard-packed dirt, natural surface, stone stairs, uneven terrain
Pass Required: Yes
Length: 0.5-mile linear
Highlights: 40 wooden steps, historic stone shelter
Silverbrook Trail
Wildlife viewing trail. Hike through a variety of habitats to a remote area of the park rich in local history. The trail follows part of the original road from St. Croix Falls to Osceola. Pass by an abandoned copper mine to the grounds of Silverbrook Mansion and view the 18 foot Silverbrook Falls.
TRAIL TYPE: FOOT TRAFFIC
TRAIL LEVEL: EASY. ACCESSIBLE.
SURFACE: NATURAL SURFACE, MOSTLY FLAT, MOWED GRASS
PASS REQUIRED: YES
LENGTH: 1.2 LINEAR MILE
NOTABLES: ABANDONED COPPER MINE, 18 FOOT SILVERBROOK WATERFALL
Silverbrook Trail Loop
This 1.1-mile loop winds through forest and meadow to the southernmost part of the park. Take a short spur to view the 18-foot Silverbrook Falls.
TRAIL TYPE: FOOT TRAFFIC
TRAIL LEVEL: EASY. ACCESSIBLE.
SURFACE: NATURAL SURFACE, MOSTLY FLAT, MOWED GRASS, PACKED DIRT
PASS REQUIRED: YES
LENGTH: 1.1 LOOP
NOTABLES: 18 FOOT SILVERBROOK WATERFALL
Skyline Nature Trail
This self-guided interpretive trail starts at the Ice Age Center and features informative signs that explain the evolving landscape and plant communities of the area. Designed to be easy and accessible, the trail offers a relaxed walk through natural surroundings while providing educational insights into the region’s geological history.
Trail Type: Foot Traffic Only
Difficulty Level: Easy, Accessible
Surface: Natural surface
Pass Required: Yes
Length: 0.75-mile loop
Highlights: Interpretive signage, official segment of the Ice Age Trail
Winter Trails at WI Interstate State Park
During the winter months, Interstate State Park opens additional recreation trails for seasonal activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These winter-specific trails are only accessible once the ground is frozen, as they are not maintained or open during the warmer seasons.
Skyline Ski Trail – 2.1 miles
This groomed trail is reserved exclusively for classic cross-country skiing. When snow-covered, it is open to skiers only—hiking, snowshoeing, and pets are not permitted. The trail begins at the Skyline Shelter and offers a scenic, peaceful winter experience through the forested bluff.
Multi-Use Winter Recreation Trails
These trails are open for snowshoeing, winter hiking, pets, and ungroomed cross-country skiing. They offer a great option for those looking to explore the park’s winter landscape in different ways.
Additional Winter Trails Include:
- Bluff Trail – 0.6 miles
- Homestead Loop – 1.0 mile
- Ojibwa Trail & Loop – 0.8 mile
- Point Trail – 1.8 miles
- Quarry Trail Loop – 2.0 miles
Whether you’re skiing through groomed trails or trekking along snowy paths, Interstate State Park provides a variety of winter adventures for all skill levels.