Pull off Highway 95 on a gray afternoon and walk down the stairs to the river and you’ll find peace and quiet — and natural beauty evident with a little looking.

Even though spring seems elusive right now, it was refreshing to cross several watery springs on the trail, where they spill out from the base of the cliffs. As I came around one corner, a loon cried out one solitary call. They often migrate up the river to the northern nesting grounds.

Sadly, there was also significant litter along the trail, and obnoxious graffiti sprayed on the rock. Check St. Croix 360 tomorrow for a post about an opportunity to volunteer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to help monitor and maintain the Boom Site. The National Park Service is also seeking volunteers to help with site monitoring at nearby Fairy Falls.

There is another winter storm watch headed our way, and it seems like the season of green growing things might never come. Don’t despair, get out there! If you can’t today, enjoy these photos and dream a spring dreams.

Click the images to see larger versions.

Note: This post was edited to accurately reflect the DNR/Park Service partnership to monitor and maintain the Boom Site and Fairy Falls.