
Have A Rock Climbing Adventure in St. Croix Falls
The bluffs and dalles of the St. Croix River form the backdrop of the city of St. Croix Falls in Northwest Wisconsin, making it an excellent destination for outdoor adventurers. From all types of rock climbing to paddling and fishing, read on to start planning your fresh air getaway.
Rock Climbing Galore at Interstate Park
Interstate State Park is Wisconsin’s oldest state park and features unique glacial formations and plant ecosystems. The park also contains well over 100 established rock climbing routes, with more on the Taylor Falls side of the river. This remarkable concentration owes its existence to the river's dramatic gorge, known as the Dalles of the St. Croix River. A wide range of low-intensity shorter climbs and challenging longer routes make it a popular rock climbing destination for locals and travelers alike.
The majority of this region’s routes fall within two styles: bouldering and roped climbing. With less equipment necessary for bouldering, it’s easy to grab your climbing shoes, helmet, chalk, crash pad and good company and head out for an adventure. Within the spectacular scenery of Interstate Park, you and your crew are sure to have an unforgettable climb.
The journey begins as you and your companions gather around, route description in hand, studying its cryptic instructions while deciphering the contours of the rock face. Inevitably, someone takes the initial leap, experimenting with moves that often lead down the path of typically humorous wrong turns. Yet amidst the amusement and shared determination, one of you unlocks the puzzle, conquering the route to the exhilaration of all.
The Pothole Trail loop itself offers a trove of bouldering opportunities, enough to fill an entire day's worth of climbing. Meanwhile, numerous other bouldering zones are scattered throughout the park, creating a treasure hunt for you and your crew.
The cliffy expanse of the Wisconsin Strip in the park's northern region offers an impressive array of longer routes for roped climbing. These routes are often top-roped, with a skilled, experienced climber building an anchor at the top.
Continue your journey to the southern portion of the park, where the Sentinel Area has a collection of more advanced roped climbs. Bring a picnic to share with friends, and if the weather’s warm enough, you can jump in Lake O' the Dalles after a long day of adventuring.
If you’re a beginner or just want some extra assistance, take an outdoor climbing course with one of the many local guides in the area, such as Midwest Mountain Guides.

Beyond climbing, you can also canoe or kayak through the spectacular bluffs and stop for a picnic along the way. Or, bring your fishing poles to fish for walleye, northern pike, musky and smallmouth bass.
Looking for more thrills? Discover more fast-paced fun at these adventure resorts in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.