Wisconsin's 'Gateway To Crex Meadows' Is A Cozy Village Surrounded By Natural Beauty And Outdoor Recreation

Wildlife enthusiasts are undoubtedly always in search of picturesque destinations to spend time in nature, and Wisconsin's Crex Meadows offers 30,000 acres to explore — right on the edge of Grantsburg. Known as the "Gateway to Crex Meadows," the quaint village of Grantsburg is situated near the Wood River and is surrounded by natural beauty. It presents visitors with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation while at the same time being a cozy place to relax at a slower pace.

Anchoring the edge of town is Memory Lake, where manicured fields merge into dense forests on the water's edge, presenting a relaxing spot for picnics and camping. Meanwhile, hiking trails crisscross the woodlands surrounding Wood River and nearby St. Croix River. Birdwatchers will be particularly thrilled by the vast expanse of forested wetlands at Crex Meadows, located right on the northern edge of Grantsburg.

Tucked into a tiny downtown walking distance from Memory Lake, rustic buildings run along the main street of Grantsburg, many of them evoking a sense of nostalgia for the milling town's bygone days. Around Madison Avenue visitors will find shops and local restaurants like the Country Café on Main, where you can enjoy small-town vibes as you fuel up on a big breakfast before heading out on your adventures. For a village of just around 1,300 residents, Grantsburg's walkable downtown offers visitors ample eateries alongside picturesque waterways and parks. Despite being in Wisconsin, locals in Minnesota are actually closer, with Minneapolis only 90 minutes away by car.

Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is a sprawling expanse of peat marshes that stretch out as far as the eye can see — formed by the melting of ancient glaciers many thousands of years ago. Today, it's a vast peaceful wilderness where seasonal camping and outdoor adventures await — without crowds of other people. A birdwatchers' paradise, Crex Meadows is home to more than 280 species of birds, and more than 96 species of butterflies. Binoculars are available to rent at the Visitors Center, in case you forget your pair.

A dedicated driving route weaves through the tens of thousands of acres of wilderness, with plenty of spots to park the car, soak up the scenery, and of course, keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife. Sandhill cranes, eagles, and egrets are just a few birds that have been seen here. Meanwhile, leisurely nature walks along the raised wooden walkway meander past shimmering ponds and tall grasses for scenic views, while dirt trails bring trekkers into the shady forest, with benches dotted along the way. 

But there's more to Crex Meadows than nature watching and leisurely strolls. Launch ramps for canoes, boats, and kayaks give you the opportunity to cruise around in the marshes. An archery course with 20 targets to practice your aim is located right near the Visitor Center. Spring and summer bring foraging opportunities for edible flora. And outside of the protected 2,400-acre refuge where visitors aren't allowed, the area is open to trapping and hunting. When the area becomes blanketed in snow, it opens up to snowmobiling on designated trails, and cross-country skiing off-trail.

Grantsburg gives you access to more than just Crex Meadows. Less than 10 minutes away by car is Governor Knowles State Forest, a 55-mile long stretch of wilderness that runs along the St. Croix Scenic Riverway. Here in the forest's 32,500 acres you'll find even more recreational opportunities, plus dispersed camping and three rustic campgrounds — some with electric hookups and horse hitching posts. 

Explore equestrian and bike trails, and well-maintained dirt hiking paths that lead visitors through groves of green trees that change to rusty orange hues in the autumn. For particularly mesmerizing views of rugged sandstone ridges bordering the riverbanks, hike the Sandrock Cliffs Trail. Along the way, rocky ledges offer opportunities to pause and admire the sprawling wooded landscape below. Anglers can reel in trout from Wolf Creek and the Trade River, while catfish, sturgeon, and bass are all catches to be had in the St. Croix River. During winter, nine miles of snow-covered trails allow for snowshoeing, winter hikes, and fat-tire cycling. Groomed and tracked trails welcome cross-country skiing, and 32 miles of maintained trails are fit for snowmobiles. 

When you've explored Crex Meadows and Governor Knowles State Forest, the nearby St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is a haven for fishing, kayaking, and camping. More scenic woodland adventures await just a short drive away at Interstate State Park, known for camping, trails, and glacial potholes. And you can make it an outdoor adventure road-trip and head across the border into Minnesota where you'll find Pine City, a charming destination with scenic lakes and forests.