Outdoors

At the first signs of snow, do you cringe and shiver—or do you throw on your winter gear and head outdoors? When the folks at Afton Alps in Hastings think of snow, they’re enthusiastic.

The YMCA’s Camp St. Croix in Hudson has been providing excellent programs for families for over a century in the tradition of healthy living, youth development, social responsibility and fun. Now, to commemorate another successful season of camping memories, Camp St.

When Teresa and David Grim closed their Stillwater shop, Doozie Chic Boutique, in 2011, they had an idea for an entirely new way to run a retail clothing shop—on four wheels.

It’s all in the name. St. Croix Valley’s annual “Take Me to the River” art tour will be in full swing September 12–28. The collection of festivals across the area celebrates creativity, tradition and a whole lot of outdoor fun.

For thousands of years, the St. Croix River has been home to water-loving people. The tradition of canoeing on the river, started by the Dakota and Ojibwe tribes long ago, continues today with throngs of adventurers setting forth from William O’Brien State Park.

Nobody ever needs an excuse to get outside—gorgeous views valley-wide, fresh air and beautiful sights are reason enough. But for a small community of adventurers, a casual stroll can mean a real treasure hunt.

Many of us know the St. Croix River as a great place to go boating, take pictures or picnic alongside. We might go for walks on the Stillwater levees or on Hudson’s long river walk. But do you ever consider what is lurking below the water’s surface?

When John Kerschbaum paddles on the St. Croix River, the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy is never far from his mind. After all, that’s where the idea for his business, Gondola Romantica, all began.

The St. Croix River just keeps getting more precious. It is big, beautiful and wild. It is home to all manner of waterfowl, songbirds, animals and fish. Less than an hour from a major metropolitan area, being on the river can make you feel as if you’re 1,000 miles from civilization.

Summer is a time when sunny skies and warm breezes beckon people of all ages to flock to their favorite swimming beaches to cool off and enjoy a relaxing time on the river or at one of the area lakes. For those heading to the St.

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