Stillwater to Eau Claire Road Trip: Scenic Drive Guide

On April 15, 1931, the Stillwater Lift Bridge opened, connecting Minnesota and Wisconsin across the St. Croix River. This vertical-lift bridge remains a landmark for travelers starting their journey east. The route from Stillwater, Minnesota to Eau Claire, Wisconsin spans 92 miles along US-12 and I-94, typically taking 1 hour and 30 minutes without stops.

This guide breaks down every aspect of the drive, from natural landscapes to culinary stops, ensuring you know exactly what to expect. For a deeper dive on finding hidden gems, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Route Overview Table

The St. Croix River crossing is a moment to savor. On clear days, the river glistens below as you leave Minnesota behind. The route follows the historic Soo Line Railroad corridor, which once carried timber and grain. Today, I-94 cuts through rolling farmland and patches of hardwood forest.

Best stops Stillwater, MN to Eau Claire, WI include state parks, roadside markets, and small-town diners. You'll find plenty of things to do between Stillwater, MN and Eau Claire, WI, from hiking to cheese tasting.

I-94 is well-maintained and patrolled. The biggest hazards are deer crossings near wooded areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Use high beams on unlit stretches. Winter snow and ice reduce visibility; all-season tires are recommended.

• Emergency services: dial 911. Hospitals in Hudson (Hudson Hospital) and Eau Claire (Mayo Clinic).
• Gas stations with convenience stores at every exit.
• Rest areas every 20-30 miles; the one at mile marker 10 eastbound has playground equipment.

Family suitability: this trip is excellent for children. The drive is short, and stops include parks and museums. The Children's Museum in Eau Claire has interactive exhibits. Pet-friendly framework: most rest stops allow leashed pets, and many parks have trails. Leashes required in state parks.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: take breaks every 45 minutes. The Hudson rest area has coffee vending. For a real break, exit at Menomonie and walk the Red Cedar State Trail, a 14-mile rail-trail along the river. Hidden off-route spots: the Chippewa River State Trail near Eau Claire offers secluded biking and hiking away from traffic.

Tips for a Smooth Drive

• Leave early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
• Carry cash for small roadside produce stands.
• Check traffic apps for construction delays near the Twin Cities metro area.
• If traveling with pets, pack water and a bowl; many rest stops have grass areas.

Things to do between Stillwater, MN and Eau Claire, WI also include visiting the St. Croix Vineyards near Stillwater for wine tasting. The overall infrastructure safety and road quality is high, with average annual fatalities on this I-94 stretch being among the lowest in Wisconsin.

Fuel stations are abundant along I-94. The best prices are often found at the exits for Hudson and Menomonie. As of May 2025, average unleaded prices range from $3.30 in Minnesota to $3.20 in Wisconsin. Plan for one refuel if your tank holds less than 12 gallons.

• Most stations are open 24/7, especially near major exits.
• Rest areas at mile markers 4 (eastbound) and 10 (westbound) offer restrooms and vending.
• No toll roads on this route; all highways are free.

Road quality is excellent. I-94 is a divided four-lane highway with a smooth surface. The speed limit is 70 mph in Wisconsin, 65 in Minnesota. Winter conditions can cause icy patches, especially near the St. Croix River valley. Summer brings construction zones; check 511mn.org and 511wi.gov before departure.

Is it worth driving Stillwater, MN to Eau Claire, WI? Absolutely—the scenery shifts from river bluffs to pastoral landscapes, and the drive is short enough for a day trip.

Key Coordinates

• Stillwater: 45.0558° N, 92.8060° W
• Hudson: 44.9744° N, 92.7569° W
• Menomonie: 44.8755° N, 91.9193° W
• Eau Claire: 44.8113° N, 91.4985° W

The St. Croix National Scenic Riverway is a designated Wild and Scenic River, though not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its bluffs rise 200 feet above the water, offering panoramic views. William O'Brien State Park, just north of Stillwater, features hiking trails through oak savanna.

• Hudson's Lakefront Park: a small beach and picnic area with views of the St. Croix.
• Willow River State Park: 2 miles north of Hudson, with a 100-foot waterfall and swimming beach.
• Menomonie's Tainter Lake: a reservoir created by a hydroelectric dam, popular for fishing and kayaking.

Local commerce thrives in the small towns. Hudson's historic downtown boasts antique shops and bakeries. The Hudson Hot Air Affair, held in February, features balloon launches and chili cook-offs. Menomonie is home to the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts, a stunning Victorian theater built in 1889.

Cheese is a cultural pillar. Stop at the Menomonie Cheese Factory for fresh cheddar and curds. You can also visit the Leinenkugel's Brewery in Chippewa Falls, just north of Eau Claire, for a free tour and tasting.

Best Stops Stillwater to Eau Claire

• Stillwater: Lift Bridge, downtown shops, and the St. Croix riverwalk.
• Hudson: Phipps Center for the Arts, Octagon House Museum.
• Baldwin: Apple River Canyon State Natural Area (hiking, cliffs).
• Menomonie: Wakanda Park, Dunn County Historical Society.
• Eau Claire: Carson Park, Paul Bunyan Logging Camp Museum.

How long to drive Stillwater, MN to Eau Claire, WI? With stops, plan for 3-4 hours to enjoy the attractions. Without stops, it's 1.5 hours.