TAYLORS FALLS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Ten Miles of St. Croix: Wild River Launch to Taylors Falls Dam — Overnight on the River
A 10-mile paddle from Wild River State Park to Eric’s Boat Landing on the St. Croix River with first-come, first-serve National Park Service campsites en route.
Ten Miles of St. Croix: Wild River Launch to Taylors Falls Dam — Overnight on the River.
This popular overnight route runs 10 miles down the scenic St. Croix River, beginning at Wild River State Park and finishing at Eric’s Boat Landing just before the Taylors Falls Dam. Expect roughly 3–4 hours of paddling time on the water, with National Park Service campsites available along the river on a first-come, first-serve basis and no permits required north of Taylor Falls Dam.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A single 10-mile corridor from Wild River to Eric’s Boat Landing
The trip covers a continuous 10-mile downstream paddle that begins at Wild River State Park and concludes at Eric’s Boat Landing just before the Taylors Falls Dam.
First-come, first-serve National Park Service sites
National Park Service campsites on the St. Croix River are available along the route on a first-come, first-serve basis; north of Taylor Falls Dam these sites do not require permits.
Short paddle, overnight rhythm
A favorite overnight trip, the on-water portion is typically about 3–4 hours of paddling time, making it a compact overnight option on the St. Croix.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
You launch from Wild River State Park and settle into a steady downstream rhythm: the river corridor opens and narrows in sequence as you make your way toward Taylors Falls. With roughly 3–4 hours of paddling, the route gives time for deliberate progress, campsite scouting at National Park Service sites, and an end-of-day landing at Eric’s Boat Landing before the Taylors Falls Dam.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
On-water paddling time is roughly 3–4 hours; the overall trip duration is listed as 6–8 hours.
Plan for an overnight river trip—bring overnight camping gear and paddling essentials and verify specific rental/gear options with the operator.
The meeting point for shuttles and departures is Eric's Shuttle Lot at 1155 Chicago St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the paddle?
The route covers 10 miles and typically involves about 3–4 hours of paddling time.
What is the total duration of the trip?
The total duration is listed as 6–8 hours.
Where do we meet before the trip?
Meet at Eric's Shuttle Lot — 1155 Chicago St, Taylors Falls, MN 55084.
Can I camp along the route and do I need permits?
Yes — National Park Service campsites on the St. Croix are available and are first-come, first-serve; north of Taylor Falls Dam those sites do not require permits.
Where does the trip start and finish?
The paddle starts at Wild River State Park and finishes at Eric’s Boat Landing before the Taylors Falls Dam.