Clear waters, lush woodlands, and storied histories await those visit here.
Just 20 minutes east of the St. Paul/Minneapolis metro area is Hudson, WI. This rapidly growing community is a great introduction to the region combining the natural beauty of the St. Croix River Valley with a friendly and progressive small town community. You can play golf, explore the shops, or just relax at one of their historic bed and breakfasts before heading toward the lakes.
The falls of St. Croix Falls may be hidden under their famous hydroelectric dam, but that still doesn't stop weekenders from visiting and enjoying the charm of this small town and the beauty of the nearby Cedar Lake.
St. Croix Falls once envisioned itself as a strong industrial center, and with good reason. Surrounded by rich forests and the strong waters of the St. Croix River rushing nearby, St. Croix had the makings of a strong lumber town. However, the high spring flood water would routinely wipe out the dams and mills, and carry their cargo downstream to the benefit of other logging camps. Fortunately, their loss in the lumber industry preserved the magnificent beauty of the hills and surrounding forests, attracting many hikers, skiers, and snowmobilers to the area.
Cedar Lake is located approximately 12 miles south of St. Croix Falls. This picturesque 142 acre lake is perfect for a peaceful canoe trip or a relaxing afternoon of fishing. Anglers reported that this is a great spot to land panfish and largemouth bass.
Turtle Lake, a town where its trees outnumber its people, can be found amidst a wonderland of lakes, rivers, rolling hills, fields, and (of course) lots and lots of trees. These natural features provide the surrounding area with scenic beauty, habitats for a wide variety of wild life, and countless opportunities for hiking, camping, snowmobiling, and many other outdoor activities.
Balsam Lake is a small town on the southwest shore of the lake of the same name. Balsam Lake (the lake) is the largest lake in Polk County. Besides its great largemouth bass fishing, this 2,054 acre lake is large enough to enjoy pleasure boating, sail boating, canoeing, waterskiing in the summer, and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.
Bone Lake in located approximately 50 miles northeast of the St. Paul/Minneapolis area. It is one of the more popular lakes in Polk County measuring in at 1,781 acres with 12.5 miles of shoreline. This lake has a little bit of everything: great fishing, secluded views, and ample opportunities to hike and hunt.
For Lakeshoredreams.com, the counties grouped in Western WI include;
Polk County WI, St. Croix County WI, Pierce County WI
