The Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway runs a scenic 20-mile excursion along the sandstone bluffs of the St. Croix River from the 1916 SOO Line Depot in Osceola, Wisconsin. The route crosses into Minnesota on the Cedar Bend Draw Bridge, stops in Marine on St. Croix, and returns to Osceola. Trains are diesel-powered, with vintage cars, and the railway runs special rides: dinner and pizza trains, brunch trains, leaf-viewing trips and pumpkin rides in autumn, as well as private charters. Marine on St. Croix trips leave at noon and 2:30 pm on Sundays. Osceola is a short drive north of Stillwater, which makes the railway an easy half-day addition, and it is one of the best ways to see the river valley in autumn colour without driving.
Planning
Tickets are sold at the restored depot at 114 Depot Road in Osceola, and the railway can be reached on 715-755-3570. The operating season and special trains vary, so check the schedule before you travel. Autumn colour trains and pumpkin rides sell out early, and specialty trains such as brunch or dinner require advance reservations. Allow time to park, collect tickets and board at least fifteen minutes before departure.
What to expect
A slow, scenic ride in vintage cars with views of bluffs, woods and the river, crossing the draw bridge into Minnesota. Seats are comfortable and the pace is gentle, which makes the experience popular with families, retirees and photographers. Dress in layers because open windows and platform waits can be cool. Wheelchair and mobility arrangements vary with the cars, so ask the railway in advance. Children enjoy the train and the bridge crossing.
Making the most of it
Combine the ride with a stop at the orchard and vineyard on a fall day, or with a visit to Marine on St. Croix. Because the line runs out of Wisconsin, this is a nice way to count two states in one outing. Pair the train with a cruise on the river for a day on water and rails, and book a table for dinner in Stillwater afterwards. If you plan to photograph, sit on the side facing the river.
What to expect
The experience
A scenic excursion train in vintage cars along the St. Croix River.
Best time
Autumn colour rides, booked well ahead.
How long
Check the schedule; allow most of a morning or afternoon.
Tips
Reserve special trains early and sit on the river side.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fall-colour visitors and train fans.
- Families
- Gentle and visual, with a bridge crossing.
- Couples
- Brunch or dinner trains add a special touch.
- Pair with
- Aamodt’s Apple Farm and a Stillwater dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Where does the train leave from?+
From the restored 1916 SOO Line Depot in Osceola, Wisconsin.
Does it cross into Minnesota?+
Yes. It crosses the Cedar Bend Draw Bridge and stops in Marine on St. Croix.
Are there special trains?+
Yes: dinner and pizza, brunch, leaf-viewing and pumpkin rides, plus private charters.
Is the train diesel or steam?+
Diesel-powered with vintage cars.
How do I book?+
Tickets are sold at the depot, and you can phone 715-755-3570. Check the schedule first.