Visit Willow River State Park This Spring

Willow River State Park is easily one of the most beautiful state parks in Wisconsin, and it’s by far one of the most popular things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin. The park is situated just north of this lovely small town on the picturesque St. Croix River. You’ll find plenty to discover there after exploring the park’s hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. The most popular draw to Willow River State Park is its namesake waterfall, Willow Falls, a breathtaking sight cascading down multiple levels of rocky outcroppings.

Beyond just marveling at the sheer power of Mother Nature, there are plenty of things to do at Willows River State Park and in the surrounding area. Spring is a particularly wonderful time to visit the park. With snowmelt, the water nears its most powerful, spring flowers are starting to bloom, and the busy crowds of summer have yet to appear. Willow River State Park is also a great place to enjoy hiking and fishing, and it’s open year-round for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, should you find yourself in the area in the wintertime.

Apart from visiting Willow River State Park, the town of Hudson is a wonderful place to spend a few days, especially when you choose a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast as your home base. There is a diverse network of locally owned B&Bs and Inns across the Midwest, each offering unique lodging experiences that far exceed your expectations. These smaller lodging properties offer guests exquisite hospitality and an incomparable opportunity to relax and seek balance. Plus, there are so many things to do in Wisconsin for those looking for new adventures.

This spring, carve out some time for yourself and explore the beauty of Wisconsin State Parks, many of which feature some of the most memorable waterfalls in Wisconsin, and the charming small towns that surround them. Book a room at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast near Willow River State Park today!

Enjoy the Best of Willow River State Park in Wisconsin

A visit to Willow River State Park is easily one of the most popular activities for visitors to northwestern Wisconsin. It’s located in the charming town of Hudson, which itself is a gorgeous place to visit, as it’s situated on the St. Croix River. Willow Falls is beautiful, but what really impresses at Willow River State Park is the 200-foot Willow River Gorge, where the water comes barreling through.

This is truly a four-seasons destination. Whether you’re here on a hot summer day or a brisk spring or fall afternoon, Willow River State Park never disappoints. There are plenty of things to do here, including the following:

1. There are 13 miles of scenic hiking trails within Willow Falls State Park. It’s a great way to explore the park and take in various views. The Hidden Ponds Nature Trail is accessible and wheelchair-friendly.
2. Within Willow River State Park is Little Falls Lake. There’s a swimming beach on the lake, and it’s also an excellent place for kayaking, canoeing, and boating. There’s a boat launch, and rentals are available.
3. Visit the Nature Center at Willow River State Park, which features a variety of live and hands-on displays showcasing the plant and animal life that lives here. Some naturalists host regular programs year-round.
4. You can also fish in the Willow River, where you’ll find species like panfish and bass and even some trout upstream of the dam.
5. Pack a picnic and enjoy it by the roar of Willow Falls. This is especially lovely on a hot summer day.
6. Bring your bikes or rent some locally, and explore on the paved Little Falls Trail or one of the designated mountain biking trails in the park.

Make sure you come back and enjoy Willow River State Park in the winter, too, when the landscapes have taken on entirely new characteristics! And, of course, in summer, the river opens up to be a veritable playground for all who visit.

The 8 Best Things to Do in Hudson, Wisconsin

Aside from visiting Willow River State Park, there are plenty of great things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin. Thanks to its location on the St. Croix River, you’ll love walking along the riverbanks. Whether you want to relax at a nearby Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast or get out and explore this fantastic area, we’re confident you’ll love visiting this hidden gem town. Here are just a few of our favorite things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin:

1. One of our favorite things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin, apart from visiting Willow River State Park, is to shop in historic downtown Hudson. There’s a unique and eclectic variety of shops downtown, and you’re sure to find something special to take home with you.
2. One of the most beautiful things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin, is hop onboard one of the St. Croix River Cruises.
3. Visit the fascinating Octagon House Museum. Home to the very first Kindergarten in the US.
4. There are plenty of great restaurants and eateries in historic downtown Hudson, and you can enjoy tastings at the best of them on this Hudson Food Walk. For other guided tour options, check out the historical and walking tours you can take through town.
5. There are four fabulous golf courses in the Hudson area, including the Troy Burne Golf Club. Golfing in Wisconsin is the perfect way to soak up the fresh air and spend some time with your favorite person.
6. Given that the St. Croix River is right here, it’s probably not surprising that boating is one of the top things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin.
7. There are some great bike trails in and around Hudson, including the St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. The 4.7-mile paved trail is open year-round to pedestrians and bicycles, and heads into Stillwater, MN, another quaint small town to explore.
8. Hudson is surrounded by lush wilderness areas, and many of the best state parks in Wisconsin are known for bird watching. This truly is an exceptional place to do it!

Whatever you choose to do in Hudson, you deserve to stay someplace comfortable and unique. High-quality accommodations are an essential part of what we offer, but the attentive hospitality you’ll find at each of our properties truly sets Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts apart from other lodging options. This hospitality extends to every part of your stay, and you’ll feel and see the difference from the moment you first arrive. Start planning your next getaway and book a room at one of our amazing Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts today!