Soon we’ll be hosting you in St. Croix Valley for a Nature Memorial Ceremony. Below we’ve included all of the necessary information for you to prepare for the event.
Arrival at the forest
12630 Lakamaga Trail N, Scandia, MN 55047
Most people use Google Maps to get to the forest. Below is the link to the exact forest location.
Better Place Forests St. Croix Valley (Google Maps)
For more information about how to get to the forest, and places to stay and eat in the area, read our full directions.
We know you may be traveling from a distance and that it can be difficult to estimate your arrival time. Please let us know if you have any questions about distance and timing.
Important things to know
- The entire forest is a non-smoking property for health and safety reasons.
- Weather can change suddenly in the forest — we recommend layering with a warm jacket and long pants.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the forest trails can be wet and steep in some places.
- Generally, the walk to the tree is 5-10 minutes. There is a mobility quad available if you need assistance getting to the tree.
- The ceremony generally lasts 15-30 minutes; chairs are available by request if you don’t want to stand during the ceremony
What to expect
After your group has gathered we will begin by combining your loved one’s ashes with native soil from the forest. You are welcome to observe and participate in this process as much or as little as you would like.
We will then proceed to the tree together. Walking sticks and a mobility quad are available to make this experience comfortable for you and your family. If you would prefer a ride to the tree we’d be happy to accommodate, just let us know in advance.
At the tree, we will stand as a group for 15-30 minutes. During the forest memorial, guests will have the opportunity to participate in the spreading of ashes beneath the tree. You will be offered to sow native wildflower seeds and have private time at the tree without the Better Place Forests team at the conclusion of the ceremony.
After the ceremony, you are welcome to explore the forest.
In order to make your visit as comfortable as possible, please let us know ahead of time if you need the mobility quad to get to the tree or chairs during the ceremony.
Questions?
If you have questions before your visit—about timing, mobility accommodations, seating, or anything in this guide—call our Support team at 628-237-3922. They can help you prepare and make sure everything’s set before you arrive.
If you have questions on the day of your ceremony, you can reach the St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest team directly—if you’re running late, need help finding your way once you’re close by, or want to share any last-minute details about your visit.
Phone Number: 651-337-4004
Email Address: stcroixvalley@betterplaceforests.org
