St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest
A 112-acre protected lakefront sanctuary near the Twin Cities.
Why St. Croix Valley?
A natural alternative to traditional cemeteries
St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest offers a meaningful way to return ashes to the earth within a protected forest sanctuary.
Trees instead of tombstones honor loved ones with a memorial that grows.
Ashes naturally nourish the forest—no harmful chemicals, low impact.
Every memorial funds conservation, protecting forest and wildlife habitats.
Legally protected in perpetuity—the forest is never developed or disturbed.
A lakefront forest oasis
Experience a flourishing lakefront forest unlike any traditional memorial—where rolling hills and ridges provide expansive views of Fish Lake and wetlands.
Lakefront vistas
Includes 2,500 feet of pristine lakefront forest bordering Fish Lake in Scandia.
Abundant wildlife
Watch white-tailed deer wander, majestic bald eagles soar overhead and loons call across the lake.
Protected wetlands
This forest is a habitat for bald eagles and migrating birds supporting unique biodiversity and ecology.
Your memorial
protects the forest
Your memorial does more than honor a life—it protects an ecosystem. Each purchase funds a Stewardship Trust to preserve the forest and provides you irrevocable access rights in perpetuity.
Return to nature,
make it beautiful
After cremation, families need a place to remember. With Better Place, ashes find a permanent home in a protected Memorial Forest—not on a mantle, not scattered without a place to return.
It’s simpler than traditional burial, more comprehensive than direct cremation, and designed for how we want to be remembered—as part of something living.
Need cremation services? We offer carbon-neutral cremation.
Three perfect memorial locations
Within St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest are three distinct locations, each with its own character and natural beauty. Discover the one that speaks to you.
Shoreline Vista
Views of Fish Lake from every trail-accessible tree.
Fern Haven
Fern-lined paths offer peace and tranquility.
West Canopy Lane
An easy woodland walk with a heart of the forest feel.
Two ways to create a living memorial
Memorial Tree
- Multiple people & pets at one tree
- You choose tree & location
- Add a personalized Guide-led ceremony
- Add customized Memorial Marker
Your tree. Your forest. Your choices.
Starting at $6,200 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000
Spreading Grove
- Honors one life in a shared grove
- Location chosen for you
- Simple self-led memorial ceremony
- Includes small, simple marker
A grove. A forest. A place to rest.
Starting at $2,250 • View Pricing
Bundle with cremation • Save $1,000
Nature Memorial Ceremony
A personalized ceremony with loved ones to return ashes to the earth.
Starting at $100
Memorial Marker
A customized bronze marker placed at a tree or grove to honor a life.
Starting at $500
St. Croix Valley tree species
St. Croix Valley features three native Minnesota tree species, each with their own symbolism and strength for honoring your loved one. Explore trees virtually or visit the forest in-person.
Red Maple
Scarlet fall foliage and early spring blooms define this versatile tree. Also known for its sweet sap that makes maple syrup.
White Oak
Tower giants can live up to 500 years. Producing strong, decay-resistant wood, bold red-wine colored leaves, and timeless majesty.
Bigtooth Aspen
Their interconnected root systems link trees across generations, a living symbol of family bonds and the lives we share.
What to expect
What happens when you explore with a Guide
A Guide helps you understand your options, answers your questions,
and walks you through next steps—no pressure.
How does it work? What’s included? Is this right for me?
Guides can show you trees virtually or plan a forest visit.
Every detail is shaped around your family’s values.
We’ll help you understand what’s right for you.
Schedule an online tour or an in-person forest visit.
Visit St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest
Find out what a living memorial looks like. Walk the forest paths, view Memorial Trees, and find the right resting place—by appointment, in person or online.
- 12630 Lakamaga Trail N Scandia, MN 55047
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What families say
“Spending time with my dad's tree is peaceful and life-giving. Surrounded by nature, I can slow down and connect with myself and my dad.”
Better Place Memorial Forests
Our protected forests span America—from the redwoods of the Mendocino Coast to the ridgetops of the Berkshires. Some of the most beautiful, biodiverse places in the country.
RESOURCES
Want to know more?
Talk to a Guide, 24/7
When you’re ready, we’re here.
Explore at your own pace
See the two ways families honor a life.
Questions?
We're here to help.
What is a Memorial Forest?
A Memorial Forest is a protected natural area designed as an alternative to a traditional cemetery where cremated ashes are returned to the earth at the base of a chosen, established tree or in dedicated groves.
Is a Memorial Forest in St. Croix Valley the right choice for me or my loved one?
Absolutely. Instead of tombstones in a cemetery, your loved one’s ashes become part of the St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest ecosystem, protected forever through conservation. Your memorial grows and evolves with the seasons, celebrating the cycle of life.
How much does it cost to spread ashes in St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest?
In St. Croix Valley, you can choose a shared Spreading Grove or private Memorial Tree to spread ashes. View pricing here
What are the benefits of St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest compared to cremation or funeral homes?
St. Croix Valley provides a meaningful alternative to traditional options: a protected forest resting place without funeral home pressure. Your memorial supports conservation, becomes part of a living ecosystem, and gives your family a permanent place to visit.
Why choose St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest over other Memorial Forests?
People may choose St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest for its beautiful native tree species, sentimental value, and its commitment to stewarding the land.
Can I visit St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest anytime?
Yes! You can arrange an in-person visit anytime by contacting a Guide. Get Started
Can you get buried in St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest?
St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest allows spreading ashes, not traditional burial.
What are the steps to choosing a Memorial Tree in St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest?
Choosing a Memorial Tree is easy. Select the tree size, species, and location within the forest. You can choose online with the help of a Guide or visit the forest in person, whichever is easiest for your situation. Get Started
What to consider when choosing a Memorial Tree in St. Croix Valley Memorial Forest?
Think about whether you want a Memorial Tree along an accessible path, in a sunny meadow where you can picnic, or in a more secluded location.
