The Snake River is Mecca for nature lovers, hikers, and any active outdoorsy person. To enjoy a round of golf, soak up some sun, and get back to nature, spend a wonderful day at the Snake River this summer.
Canoeing
Rent a canoe or bring along your own and take a cruise down the winding water. Keep your eyes open for some of the common wildlife, such as bears, loons, deer, and bald eagles.
Fishing
The Snake River is also an excellent waterway for casting your line, with a plethora of different kinds of fish, including bass, muskie, pike, walleye, catfish, crappie, perch, and sunfish. You can access the river using any of the river’s public landings, or use one of the public board launches at Cross and Pokegama lakes. The lakes are great fishing spots in their own right. You can get a Minnesota state fishing license from any local bait shop or sporting goods store.
Parks and Forests
There are 12 great parks in the Pine City area that are a great way to pack some extra nature into your visit. Robinson Park is a great spot for a picnic with a playground for kids and grills to feed the family. Friday nights feature local musical acts during summer. Check out farmers markets on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
On the Snake River’s north shore, lies Voyager Park, with a nature pond, walking paths, and grills and picnic areas.
St. Croix State Park
If you want a larger look at the nature on offer around the Snake River, take a trip to St. Croix State Park. The park’s 34,000 acres are covered by meadows, forests, streams, bogs, marshes, and the stunning Lake Clayton. Its facilities include campsites for canoeing and backpacking, a two-story guest house with accommodation for up to 15 people, and group centers.
The park is the perfect place to enjoy a little horseback riding, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, and snowmobiling. With over 127 miles of trails and five miles of hiking and paved biking trails, there’s plenty to explore. Hop on a horse and take a ride through more than 75 miles of riding trails.
Chengwatana State Forest
Chengwatana State Forest is another beautiful spot covering over 29,000 acres to the east of Pine City. Check out the Snake River Campground with 26 campsites to explore, each with its own rustic charm. Beside this, you’ll also find the Redhorse Ski Touring and Hiking Trail with eight more miles of trails, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
Historical
If you like to take in a little history and culture, the Snake River Fur Post is the perfect place to get a genuine feel for what life was back in 1804. Run by the Minnesota State Historical Society, the encampment features seasonal replicas of the lifestyle of the Ojibwa Indians.
Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure, a quiet way to get back to nature, or a little tour of history, the Snake River is the perfect destination this summer.
Snake River by Gary Windust | Licensed by CC BY-ND 2.0
