What August is like
August usually has the gentlest river of the open-water season and the warmest water. Monarch butterflies feed on milkweed and prairie flowers, cardinal flowers glow red along the shores, and late-summer thunderstorms roll through between long, hazy days. Evenings start to cool by the end of the month.
In August, Marine on St. Croix averages a high of 79°F and a low of 63°F. Expect about 3.8 in of rain spread over roughly 10 wet days. On average 4 days reach 85°F or warmer. Days last about 14.0 hours, with roughly 11.2 hours of sunshine.
The river in August
Long-term average flow at St. Croix Falls in August is 3,023 cfs — 33% below the yearly average, so sandbars appear and the current is gentle.
Best things to do in August
Based on climate normals and when wildlife is most often recorded, August is a good month for: paddling the st. croix, swimming at lake alice, hiking, wildflowers, birding, butterflies & dragonflies, mushrooms.
- Paddle when the river is low and clear; look for eagles and herons fishing.
- Count monarchs on the savanna and prairie trails.
- Fish for smallmouth bass along the rocky banks.
What to pack
- breathable clothing
- sun hat and sunscreen
- plenty of water
- insect repellent (ticks and mosquitoes are common in woods and wetlands)
