Attractions and Places To See around Hudson - Top 14

Visitors frequently enjoy the Stillwater Lift Bridge, a historic structure spanning the St. Croix River, and the scenic Willow Falls within Willow River State Park. The modern St. Croix Crossing Bridge also offers impressive views of the riverway.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Stillwater Lift Bridge and St. Croix Crossing Bridge both offer pedestrian and cycling paths with great views. Willow Falls in Willow River State Park is also a popular family destination with well-maintained hiking trails.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Willow Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall in Willow River State Park. The St. Croix Savanna Scientific and Natural Area offers a chance to experience pre-settlement prairie landscapes with towering Big Bluestem grass and Bur Oak groves. Additionally, Lake Elmo Park Reserve provides extensive trails around lakes, ponds, and forests.

Absolutely. Willow River State Park, home to Willow Falls, has numerous well-maintained hiking trails. For more options, you can explore various routes listed in the Hiking around Hudson guide, including the 'Willow Falls Loop' and 'Bluebird and Butterfly Loop'.

Beyond visiting attractions, Hudson offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Willow Falls Loop' or 'Hudson Lakefront Park Trail' (find more in the Hiking around Hudson guide). Mountain biking is also popular, with routes such as the 'Mountain Bike Beach Trailhead loop' detailed in the MTB Trails around Hudson guide. The St. Croix River also provides opportunities for water-based recreation.

For easy hikes, consider trails like the 'Bluebird and Butterfly Loop,' 'Hudson Lakefront Park Trail,' or 'Pioneer Trail.' These are generally shorter and less challenging. You can find more easy options in the Easy hikes around Hudson guide.

Hudson is known for its significant bridges. The Stillwater Lift Bridge is a historic vertical-lift bridge from 1931, now repurposed for pedestrians and cyclists, offering a unique historical experience. The St. Croix Crossing Bridge is a modern extradosed bridge, providing sweeping views of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway from its scenic overlooks.

Yes, the St. Croix Savanna Scientific and Natural Area is an excellent place to experience a pre-settlement prairie ecosystem, with tall prairie grasses and Bur Oak groves. This area supports diverse flora and fauna. Willow River State Park, home to Willow Falls, also offers varied habitats for wildlife observation.

Visitors appreciate the Stillwater Lift Bridge for its historical significance and the scenic stroll it offers over the St. Croix River. It's a rare example of a vertical-lift bridge, providing great views and connecting to a loop trail that includes the St. Croix Crossing Bridge. Be aware that it occasionally lifts for boat traffic.

Willow Falls is a beautiful, wide waterfall with several drops, the largest being about 15 feet high, located within Willow River State Park. It's accessible via well-maintained hiking trails and is stunning in all seasons, including winter when it freezes over. While it can be busy, its natural beauty makes it a must-see.

Both the Stillwater Lift Bridge and especially the St. Croix Crossing Bridge offer spectacular views of the St. Croix River and the surrounding National Scenic Riverway. The St. Croix Crossing Bridge has dedicated scenic overlooks along its pedestrian and bicycle path for optimal viewing.

Lake Elmo Park Reserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting 20 miles of trails. You can hike on natural surfaces or paved paths, exploring lakes, ponds, wetlands, forests, and prairies. It's ideal for a gentle stroll or a challenging workout, and camping options are also available.