What May is like
May is the most exciting month for naturalists. Migrating warblers, orioles and grosbeaks pour through the river corridor, and more bird species are recorded around Marine now than at any other time of year. Wild geranium, columbine and Jack-in-the-pulpit bloom in the woods. The river is still higher and colder than in summer, but by late May the first paddlers are back.
In May, Marine on St. Croix averages a high of 67°F and a low of 49°F. Expect about 4.3 in of rain spread over roughly 12 wet days. Days last about 14.9 hours, with roughly 10.3 hours of sunshine.
The river in May
Long-term average flow at St. Croix Falls in May is 7,712 cfs — 1.7× the yearly average, the season of fast, cold, high water. Paddle only with experience and a wetsuit or drysuit, and check the river dashboard first.
Best things to do in May
Based on climate normals and when wildlife is most often recorded, May is a good month for: hiking, wildflowers, birding.
- Bird the floodplain forest at sunrise during peak migration.
- Walk the woodland trails for spring wildflowers.
- Join the village’s Memorial Day program at Oakland Cemetery.
What to pack
- light layers for cool mornings
- rain jacket
- insect repellent (ticks and mosquitoes are common in woods and wetlands)
- a dry bag if you plan to paddle
Events in May
- Memorial Day Program — Memorial Day, 10:30 a.m.
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