La Crosse Wi to Stillwater MN

[hadvisor]

We are in the early stages of planning a boat trip on the Mississippi. Boats range in size from 28 to 34 foot.
Looking for recommendations for Marinas to stay at, places to stop, fuel, anything!!
How about a good reference online?

Thanks !!

 

[riversrme]

Re: La Crosse Wi to Stillwater MN

You should get a Quimby's Cruising Guide. You can order one here:

indianawaterways.com

Click the bookstore link

 

[Silvertip]

Re: La Crosse Wi to Stillwater MN

Fuel at Lake City, Red Wing, on the Mississippi and Prescott, Hudson and Stillwater on the St. Croix. You will want a VHF radio and be alert to barge traffic especially on curves and around locks. You will need to lock through several with the last one at Red Wing enroute to Stillwater. Be aware that you could be delayed for awhile if there is a barge tow locking through. The Mississippi is also noted for it's "wing dams" that destroy lower units and outdrives so make sure you understand the bouys and other channel markers.

 

[Mr. Bogus]

Re: La Crosse Wi to Stillwater MN

I like "The Pickle Factory" restaurant in Pepin, WI, the deep fried pickles are delicious, and they have plenty of dock space. If you stop at Prescott, try the shrimp and oysters at a bar called Boat Drinks. There is a lot of NO WAKE between Prescott and Stillwater, an it can be very congested. Sounds like a fun trip, good luck!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: La Crosse Wi to Stillwater MN

Congestion on weekends and holidays is indeed an issue at the locations below but it not bad during the week:

1) Prescott at the junction of the Mississippi and St Croix River.
2) No wake area at the Kinnickinnic State park about 10 miles north of Prescott.
3) No wake through the entrance to Lake St Croix south of Hudson.
4) No wake through the channel at Hudson.

If you want to sleep on the boat overnight, there some nice secluded sand islands north of the lock at Red Wing. Pull in behind an island and watch the river traffic.