Hi friends—all year long, Stillwater offers a wealth of outdoor escapes, scenic strolls, family-friendly spots, and artful downtown experiences. Here’s a guide to things you can do in and around town, no matter the season.
Parks You’ll Love
Pine Point Regional Park
A peaceful northwest nature haven with pine forest, marshes, and lake views. About five miles of multi-use trails make it perfect for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching—and cross-country skiing in winter. Horseback riding available on designated trails. Vehicle permits required.
Lowell Park & Riverside Downtown
Sitting right on the St. Croix River, Lowell Park is a great spot for river views, picnics, and waterfront walks. Grab a bench, watch boats pass under the historic Lift Bridge, and enjoy nearby cafés and shops.
Teddy Bear Park
Made for families with young kids: playgrounds shaped like giant toys, slides, seasonal hours, and open lawn. Free and fun.
Pioneer Park & Scenic Overlooks
Perched above downtown, this park rewards you with sweeping river views. It has shelters, picnic space, and a playground. After dark, downtown lights and the river create a lovely atmosphere.
Neighborhood & Hidden Gems
For quieter escapes, check out Washington Square Park (playground, picnic shelter), Lily Lake Park (fishing pier, lakeside setting), or the Sisters of the trail system through Stillwater—including McKusick Lake Trail & Dike.
Trails, Views & Outdoor Art
Brown’s Creek State Trail
This nearly 6-mile former railroad grade connects to the Gateway State Trail and follows forested corridors toward the St. Croix. Great for biking, walking, and in winter, enjoying cross-country skiing in the Nature Preserve along McKusick Road.
Historic Stairs & Downtown Walks
Stillwater’s hills are full of old staircases (dating back to the 1870s) that double as fitness features and hidden viewpoints. Mix them into your walk through Main Street, past antique shops, galleries, and cafés. Also explore Union Art Alley, a mural-rich alley just off Main.
On the Water & Seasonal Favorites
River Cruises & Water Access
The St. Croix River is central to Stillwater’s charm. From May through October, you’ll find narrated riverboat tours—perfect for views, local history, or relaxing evenings. You can also paddle or launch from select parks near the river.
Lakes & Nearby Reserves
Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers beaches, camping, and trails. For more rustic lakeside calm, Lily Lake Park has a fishing pier and peaceful setting. When winter snow comes, many parks and trails convert into snowshoe or ski paths.
Making It Your Weekend
- Start with coffee downtown, then walk riverfront at Lowell Park and peer at the Lift Bridge.
- Take the Brown’s Creek State Trail or Gateway State Trail for bikes or a long walk.
- Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon in Pine Point or Pioneer Park.
- Mid-day arts break: galleries, Union Art Alley, public sculptures.
- Summer evenings are perfect for a river cruise or grabbing ice cream by the water.
Stillwater blends nature, waterways, history, and local character in ways that never feel overdone. Whenever you explore, there’s always something new just around the corner.