If you're looking for the perfect outdoor escape for both you and your dog, look no further than William O'Brien State Park. Located northeast of the Twin Cities in Marine On St. Croix, this gem offers stunning scenery, miles of dog-friendly trails, and plenty of opportunities for you and your dog(s) to explore together. This is the first post in a new series highlighting the best parks in Minnesota where you and your dog can enjoy nature, trails, and a little adventure. Let’s start with one of my favorites: William O’Brien State Park!
What you'll find within this blog:
About William O'Brien State Park
Nestled along the St. Croix River, William O'Brien State Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its diverse landscapes. The park offers a mix of forests, wetlands, and prairies, making it a perfect place for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts, including those with dogs. Whether you're into hiking, bird-watching, or just enjoying a peaceful stroll, this park has something for everyone. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red.
Dogs are welcome on all park trails as long as they’re leashed (six-foot maximum), making it an ideal spot for a dog-friendly day trip. Just be sure to bring waste bags and plenty of water for your pup to keep the park clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Highlighted Trails
Riverside Trail: For an easy and scenic walk, the Riverside Trail is a must. This 1.5-mile trail follows the St. Croix River, offering beautiful views of the water and plenty of spots for your dog to sniff and explore. It’s a relatively flat trail, so it’s perfect for dogs of all energy levels and for those looking for a leisurely walk. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way! This trail is currently closed as the park updates infrastructure, but it is estimated to open in the spring of 2025!
Hiking Club Trail: If you and your dog are up for more of a challenge, try the Hiking Club Trail loop. This 5.5-mile trail takes you through open prairies, oak savannas, and lightly wooded areas. It’s a great choice for a longer hike with varied terrain, offering plenty of sights and sounds to keep your dog engaged. The open prairie sections can get sunny, so make sure you and your dog stay hydrated.
Southern Trails: The lesser-used southern trails are the newest part of William O'Brien and offer great views of the river valley, dense wooded areas, and spectacular groves of conifers. If you're lucky, you'll hear grouse in the forest as well as many other species of bird.
Post-Hike Food, Drinks, & More
After a fun-filled hike, why not treat yourself (and your pup) to a relaxing lunch or coffee break? Here are some dog-friendly spots near William O’Brien State Park:
Rustic Roots Winery: This dog-friendly winery offers stunning views of the St. Croix River and Wisconsin beyond. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome in any of the outdoor spaces here. They have a heated tent in the colder months, creating the perfect post-hike stop to warm up!
Brookside: Just a short drive from the park, the charming town of Marine on St. Croix has some lovely options for food including Brookside, which has an outdoor patio perfect for you and your pup to enjoy after an adventure at William O'Brien!
Nita Mae's Scoop: This weekend-only ice cream shop is the perfect addition to any day trip with your dog. Located in historic Marine on St. Croix, it's the ideal stop for a delicious helping of ice cream! Be sure to grab a dog-friendly cup for your hiking buddy.
Conway enjoying the dog-friendly patio Rustic Roots
Final Tips for Visiting with Your Dog
Before you head to William O’Brien State Park, here are a few tips for a smooth and enjoyable visit:
Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention.
Keep your dog leashed at all times.
Carry plenty of water for both you and your dog, especially on hot days.
Pick up after your dog to help keep the park clean and dog-friendly for everyone.
Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend adventure, William O'Brien State Park offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty and dog-friendly fun regardless of the season. So, leash up your pup and hit the trails!
Dog-Friendly Parks in Minnesota: William O'Brien State Park
I hope you enjoyed the first post in the new series: Dog-Friendly Parks in Minnesota: William O'Brien State Park! Which park should I feature next?
About Scruff Life Photography:
Hi, I'm Lauren! I'm a Minnesota-based pet photographer specializing in capturing the bond between people and their pets. I understand that pets are important family members and I am here to capture those special moments you will treasure for a lifetime. Whether you just added a pet to the family or they've been there for as long as you can remember, it's never a bad time for updated professional photos! Reach out today to schedule your pet photo session with Scruff Life Photography!
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