Severe thunderstorms are the primary hazard to plan around at Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, with Polk County recording 8 thunderstorm wind events and 7 hail events in recent data — a combined 15 significant weather incidents that can strike fast along the open river corridor. That frequency means a calm afternoon paddle can turn dangerous with little warning, especially for families in canoes or kayaks exposed on the water.
Before launching each day, check the NOAA hourly forecast for Polk County and identify a take-out point no more than 15 minutes from your position if storms build. Pack a portable weather radio or download the NOAA Weather app with alerts enabled, since cell coverage along the riverway is unreliable. If you hear thunder, get off the water immediately and move away from tall trees — hail at these speeds causes real injury, so shelter inside a hard-sided vehicle rather than a tent.
Top recorded hazards in Polk County
County dataFrom NOAA Storm Events (2024). Counts of recorded incidents — not all occurred at this park.
- Thunderstorm Wind 8
- Hail 7
- Heavy Rain 1
- Tornado 1
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About Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
Grab your paddle and your longing for adventure and head to the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers! Together they form the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, offering over 200 miles of clean water that glides and rushes through a forested landscape. Paddle, boat, fish, and camp among this wild and scenic beauty. Hiking and historic towns also beckon.
Weather
Access to the Riverway is year-round. Early spring temperatures can reach into the 40's resulting in high, fast, and cold water from melting snow and ice. Summers are warm and humid. Severe weather can be experienced anytime from mid-spring through late summer. Fall colors begin in late September with high temperatures averaging in the 60's. Winter can set in early with high temperatures in the teens, lows falling below zero, and occasional heavy snow. The rivers can begin to freeze over by early December.