Hiking
Where We Play
With access to over 1000 miles of trails in the area, Osceola makes an ideal basecamp for discovering the great outdoors in all four seasons. So whether you’re a dedicated hiker ready to hit the trail or a nature lover just looking for a reason to get outside, you’ll find miles of trails in playgrounds of beauty and natural surroundings right here and nearby Osceola.
With access to over 1000 miles of trails in the area, Osceola makes an ideal basecamp for discovering the great outdoors in all four seasons. So whether you’re a dedicated hiker ready to hit the trail or a nature lover just looking for a reason to get outside, you’ll find miles of trails in playgrounds of beauty and natural surroundings right here and nearby Osceola.
A- Cascade Falls Trail
No trail in the Village has as important role in the history of Osceola as the Cascade Falls Trail. At the top of the deck by Chief Osceola right downtown, head down the steps (all 135 of them!) to reach the breathtaking Cascade Falls. In summer, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the misty glen while you get up close and dip your toes into the cool water. Then, continue along the stream, across the boardwalks to the St. Croix River. At dusk, the Falls become illuminated with changing colored lighting. In summer, you'll find fireflies and in winter, the glen becomes a magical place with ice sculptures and glistening waters.
Location: 100 Cascade St. @ the Falls Deck Osceola, WI
Distance: .3 miles
Level of Difficulty: Vigorous (135 steps)
*Note: FALLS BLUFF LOOP Combines Cascade Falls Trail, Eagle Bluff Trail and Simenstad Trail that creates a loop that is both challenging and provides diversity. Discover a falls, a river, a creek, the bluffs overlooking the valley and a natural spring all in a 45 minute walk
Location: 100 Cascade St. @ the Falls Deck Osceola, WI
Distance: .3 miles
Level of Difficulty: Vigorous (135 steps)
*Note: FALLS BLUFF LOOP Combines Cascade Falls Trail, Eagle Bluff Trail and Simenstad Trail that creates a loop that is both challenging and provides diversity. Discover a falls, a river, a creek, the bluffs overlooking the valley and a natural spring all in a 45 minute walk
B- Eagle Bluff Trail
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At the end of the Cascade Falls Trail where you reach the river's edge follow the path south under the Hwy 243 bridge. Hike or snowshow up the rustic path along switchbacks on the bluff to the top of Eagle Bluff. Panoramic views of the River Valley from an eagle’s vantage point.
Location: Trailhead behind Cascade BP 97 Cascade N. Osceola, WI Distance: .25 mile Difficulty Level: Vigorous & Rustic |
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C- Simenstad Trail
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From behind Cascade BP, head towards 243 along the grass. The ruins of the Geiger Brewery will be on your right. Climb the steps to the trail base to find the story of the Picnic Bluff. Follow the trail as Simenstad Trail loops around the top of Eagle Bluff. Hike or snowshoe this trail, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the St. Croix River Valley. A camera is a must!
Location: Trailhead behind Cascade BP 97 Cascade N. Osceola, WI Distance: .5 mile Level of Difficulty: Uplifting |
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D- HIstoric Village Walk
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Start at the historic RR depot, then stroll north on Cascade St., stopping to take in the architecture of the buildings, each holding the memories of Osceola’s history- from a busy logging town to an industrious steamboat hub to a pastoral farming community. Follow River Street, stop at the Ladd Overlook for a lovely view of the St. Croix River. Trail uses sidewalks and is handicap accessible.
Location: Start @ 114 Depot Road Osceola, WI Distance: 1 mile Level of Difficulty: Easy |
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Brookside Trail
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Behind the St. Croix Art Barn find the trail and bridge to cross Brook Trout stream. When you come to Schillberg Park, take a right and follow the loop through wooded areas, streams and old campgrounds. Cross the wooden covered bridge to find the gurgling Brook Trout stream-a soothing and refreshing loop.
Location: 1040 Oak Ridge Drive, Osceola, WI Distance: .5 miles Difficulty level: Easy |
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Ridgeview Trail-
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Ridgeview Trail- Chisago LoopHike or snowshoe up a short incline for fabulous view of the St. Croix River. An easy ascent for birding and photography opportunities.
Location: 94 County Road S Osceola, WI Distance: 1 mile Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate |
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Jeff Meyer Public Fitness TrailThis 8’ wide paved loop provides enough room for leisurely strolls, fast-paced walks and jogging. The 6 exercise stations provide additional fitness opportunities and is handicap accessible.
Location: 2600 65th Ave. Osceola, WI Distance: .5 miles Level of Difficulty: Easy |
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Standing Cedars - Tewksbury Trail
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Hike or snowshoe through a wooded area to find spectacular views of the St. Croix River. The trail continues through prairie areas and historic limestone quarries. Excellent photography, birding and wildlife viewing area.
Location:643 Ridge Road Osceola, WI Distance: 1.25 miles Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate |
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Standing Cedars-
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Regional trails
Other trails for playing outdoors are a short distance away:
Gandy Dancer Trail
7 miles north on Highway 35
98-mile interstate recreational trail follows RR grade with limestone surface crossing into MN and back again into WI on its way to Superior.
Stower Seven Lakes Trail
6 miles west of Osceola on County Rd. M
14 mile recreational trail follows RR grade limestone surface. Groomed in winter for snowshoe and cross country skiing.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
7 miles north of Osceola
1000 mile footpath highlights landscape features of the glacial remnants of 120000 years ago as it travels through some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas.
WI Interstate Park
7 miles north of Osceola on Hiway 35.
12 short trails & scenic views of the steep gorge-Dalles of the St. Croix.
William O’Brian State Park
11 miles across the river from Osceola on Hiway 95
16 miles of trails
Tips for trail safety & etiquette
• Stay to the right
• Watch and listen for others
• Pass slower traffic with care- give warning
• Trail speed limit is 15 mph
• When cycling wear a helmet
• Do not leave litter on trails
• Keep pets on a leash and pick up waste
Other trails for playing outdoors are a short distance away:
Gandy Dancer Trail
7 miles north on Highway 35
98-mile interstate recreational trail follows RR grade with limestone surface crossing into MN and back again into WI on its way to Superior.
Stower Seven Lakes Trail
6 miles west of Osceola on County Rd. M
14 mile recreational trail follows RR grade limestone surface. Groomed in winter for snowshoe and cross country skiing.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
7 miles north of Osceola
1000 mile footpath highlights landscape features of the glacial remnants of 120000 years ago as it travels through some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas.
WI Interstate Park
7 miles north of Osceola on Hiway 35.
12 short trails & scenic views of the steep gorge-Dalles of the St. Croix.
William O’Brian State Park
11 miles across the river from Osceola on Hiway 95
16 miles of trails
Tips for trail safety & etiquette
• Stay to the right
• Watch and listen for others
• Pass slower traffic with care- give warning
• Trail speed limit is 15 mph
• When cycling wear a helmet
• Do not leave litter on trails
• Keep pets on a leash and pick up waste