How Deep Is the St. Croix River?

The St. Croix River is famous for a couple of reasons. For one, it has the reputation as the best river for canoeing in the entire United States. It’s also known for being one of only eight waterways originally designated as a “National Wild and Scenic River” by the federal government in 1968. Both paddlers and boaters enjoy the extraordinarily clean river and its untouched scenery, so just how deep is the St. Croix River overall?

How Deep Is the St. Croix River?

The depth of the St. Croix River is typically between 70 to 100 feet at various points along its pathway. This variation depends on both deep holes and that year’s precipitation. Drought conditions may put the river at the lower end of the spectrum.

For comparison, the deepest river in the United States is the Hudson River, with a depth of 216 feet.

How Long Is the St. Croix River?

The St. Croix River is 169 miles long. It travels through the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin. As a designated “Scenic Waterway”, it’s protected by the National Park Service. The river is a unique combination of smooth and calm waters and some rapids that reach medium-hazard levels and are best traversed by experienced paddlers.

Where Is the St. Croix River Located On a Map?

The St. Croix River is located less than half an hour from Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN. Beginning at Upper St. Croix Lake in Douglas County, WI, the St. Croix River flows 164 miles to eventually join the Mississippi River in Prescott, WI.

What to Do on the St. Croix River

There are countless recreational opportunities to enjoy along the beautiful St. Croix. Fishing, hunting, canoeing, and small powerboating are all popular activities. Hiking, camping, and viewing nature are also popular pursuits in the area.

Wildlife Surrounding the St. Croix River

Along the river, you’re likely to see numerous types of waterfowl. Mallards, wood ducks, ring-necked ducks, and the Blue-winged Teal are all known to make the St. Croix River their habitat. You may also see the Great Blue Heron, the Ruffed Grouse, and the Woodcock. Four different types of turtles are also commonly seen around the St. Croix River, including the Snapping turtle, Painted turtle, Softshell turtle, and Map turtle. Out of the water, deer, muskrats, beavers, and even black bears call the shores of the St. Croix home.

How Does the St. Croix Compare to Other Nearby Rivers?

The closest river near the St. Croix River is the Mississippi River. However, the St. Croix does not get as deep as the Mississippi River. Though the Mississippi River is only 18 inches high, beginning at Minnesota’s Lake Itasca, it can reach depths of 200 feet, where it flows near Algiers Point in New Orleans. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Linda McKusick/Shutterstock.com