If you’ve gone for a run in Stillwater, chances are you’ve enjoyed the views of the “Loop”, crossing the St. Croix on the old and new bridges into Wisconsin. Equally as popular is the Brown’s Creek bike trail; a DNR state bike trail connecting Downtown Stillwater to the Gateway bike trail through a gorgeous ravine. Each of these trails undoubtedly earn their status as the crown jewels of Stillwater’s trail system.
Off the beaten path though, hidden gems can be found. If you’re looking for a change of pace as spring training kicks off, try exploring some of Stillwater’s lesser known trails:
Long Lake Trail:
Located just east of Stillwater’s “Liberty” neighborhood, this trail skirts the edge of Long Lake on a paved trail before merging with an isolated dead-end road. There’s enough separation between the neighborhood and trail to make you feel like you’re in the woods up north while enjoying uninterrupted views of the lake. The eastern section of the route connects via neighborhood streets which aren’t as scenic, but are low traffic.
Loop the lake by itself for a 3.6 mile run, or run it from the store to make it an 8 mile run. Extra credit to make it into a long run by returning via the Oak Park Heights bike trail on 58th street that runs past Stillwater High School (10.6 miles) and connects back to the river trail via Oak Park Crossing Park.
Brown’s Creek Preserve Trails:
I’ve consistently been surprised how little known and seldom-used the Brown’s Creek Preserve is. Straddling either side of the Brown’s Creek Bike trail just west of Neal avenue, well-maintained trails meander around wetlands, meadows, and hardwoods. Some runners shy away from trail-running, but these paths can easily be run with normal running shoes. The trails are wide and fairly smooth while the hills are gentle (for Stillwater). The outer circuit is 3 miles, making it a 7-8 mile run from the store. Work is currently being done to rehab the creek to recreate natural bends and restore native habitat. A trail expansion will be included.
Millbrook Neighborhood:
Just north of the Brown’s Creek Preserve, another trail system follows the creek north before breaking off and skirting the western shore of Twin Lakes. The paved trail frequently rolls over choppy hills. The views overall aren’t as scenic as the preserve, but there’s some nice overlooks and the trail provides a pleasant paved add-on that doesn’t involve Brown’s Creek’s never-ending uphill. 2.5 miles for the loop itself, 8-9 miles if you run it from the store.
Bayport Prairie:
South of Stillwater in Bayport, some excellent routes can be found. My current favorite involves the prairie trail that connects Alper’s Park to the St. Croix Savannah SNA. A sprawling Oak Savannah frames sweeping views of the St. Croix river on one side of the trail while swaying prairie grasses dominate the other side. The dirt trail can easily be run with normal running shoes and is wide enough to accommodate 2-3 runners abreast. Extend the run by adding on the St. Croix Prep trail across the street. This path is crushed rock and circles the school grounds through woods and prairie. When combined, the two loops measure just under 4 miles. From the store, you can complete both in under 10 miles via the river trail, “Picket” ave in Bayport, and Alper’s park.
Make your next run out in Stillwater something fresh. There’s plenty to explore if you want an adventure for your next run.