At the junction of the Mississippi, St. Croix, and Vermilion rivers, this little water town is one of the best kept secrets of the region. In particular, the Vermilion offers some of the most scenic vistas around. The rugged landscape follows the small river past a series of rapids and miniature waterfalls until, deep in the green forest, visitors come upon the ruins of an ancient flour mill built by Alexander Ramsey in 1857. The mill was destroyed by fire in 1894, and is now a little-known Minnesota Historic Site. Great pillars of limestone ascend three stories.
Saplings grow around the charred foundation.
The river sings nearby.