Let's face it, within the city limits, there just isn't a lot of great rock-climbing to be had. But just a quick 45 miles north of town (via Highway 8) in the scenic St. Croix River Valley, you can scale cliffs galore. Novice and expert climbers alike can find a rock that's right. Take a break and inhale a deep hit of fresh country air. Set yourself down, unpack a lunch, and soak up the scenery. Best time to go: autumn, when the valley is ablaze with fall colors. It makes a fine day trip from the Cities, or you can camp overnight (you'll already have forked over $4 for a parking permit; a campsite is an additional $12, $14.50 if you want a plug-in). You're probably wondering: Why does this park have such a sexy name? Glad you asked. It was the first interstate park in the nation, established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1895 and by their Wisconsin counterparts in 1900. One hundred years later, there are certainly more tourists, but the beauty of the valley remains unspoiled.