Although the St. Croix River is seven miles west of River Falls, it is intimately connected to the city through its tributary, the Kinnickinnic River. The falls of this spring-fed, trout-filled stream attracted New England native Joel Foster during his explorations of the lower St. Croix Valley in 1848.
Thirty years after Foster built his first cabin beneath a limestone shelf near Junction Falls, the Kinnickinnic River powered seven mills. The city of River Falls prospered along its banks despite fire and flood. It became the site of Wisconsin’s fourth State Normal School, now the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
Much of River Falls’ early growth centered on the resources of its river. Today, the Kinnickinnic is largely a recreational river. A premier Upper Midwest trout stream, the “Kinni” attracts fly fishers to its upper reaches between April and September. After you experience the “Kinni” you will want to check out what else River Falls has to offer. Hook up your trailer or RV at beautiful Hoffman Park on the northeast side and walk the charming neighborhoods near the park. Or head to Vets Park and walk the White Pathway along the Kinni before crossing Glen Park's Swinging Bridge and exploring the its fishing pools and shade-dappled trails.
Watch the Kansas City Chiefs for free at daily practices in summer training at Ramer Field, or catch a Falcons football game in the fall and a hockey game in the winter.
Shop Main Street River Falls for antiques, books, gifts, and specialty items. Enjoy a newly released film at the old Falls Theater-where the prices stopped rising in the 1960’s-then top your visit with an edible specialty from one of several in-town coffee shops, cafés and delis.
For more things to see and do in River Falls, check out ouritineraries.
For information about the City of River Falls, visit www.rfcity.org.
