Best Kayaking in Minnesota
Trying to find the best kayaking in Minnesota? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.
Explore Minnesota
Hiking Road Biking Trail Running
Kayaking Canoeing Sea Kayaking
St. Croix River: Interstate Park – William O'Brien State Park Landing
Wisconsin, Polk County
26.555069 ft
This river is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and is one of the original eight rivers to be protected under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 and has consequently been preserved in a wonderfully wild state. This last section is arguably the most enjoyable of all. It has magnificent dells carved by the meltwater of the last glacier, cliff, potholes, stony bluffs, islands and other gorgeous scenery. There are no rapids, only occasional small riffles break up the otherwise quietwater.
Bois Brule River: County Highway S - Highway 2
Wisconsin, Douglas County
68.26549 ft
The Bois Brule is one of the most famous rivers in the Midwest and is also one of the most popular paddling streams in Wisconsin. The entire river lies within the Brule River State Forest which helps to preserve the wild character of the shoreline. The river is also very diverse in its scenery. This stretch is the most popular day trip on the river and consists of mostly quiet water with easy riffles and rapids, making it an excellent choice for less-experienced paddlers. A one-mile section through Big Lake requires some paddling through dead water and may be difficult if there is a head wind.
Bois Brule River: Highway 13 - Lake Superior
The Bois Brule is one of the most famous rivers in the Midwest and is also one of the most popular paddling streams in Wisconsin. The entire river lies within the Brule River State Forest which helps to preserve the wild character of the shoreline. The river is also very diverse in its scenery. Few canoe trips end as spectacularly as this one. As you paddle down the very calm, final stretch of the Bois Brule with stunning scenery, Lake Superior looms before you with an awe-inspiring view. This stretch of the river provides easy rapids, attractive banks, some quiet water, and the dramatic finish.
Wisconsin River: Wisconsin Dells - Pine Island
Wisconsin, Wisconsin Dells
The Wisconsin River starts as a small stream near the Michigan border and flows south, then west for 430 miles before joining the Mississippi near Prairie du Chien. Many other smaller rivers and creeks join it along the way and make it a major American River. With 26 hydropower dams along its course it is called "The hardest working river in America." This section contains fantastic rock formations called the Lower Dells and is very beautiful. Because large tour boats frequent the Lower Dells, paddlers must be prepared to deal with wakes. Other great scenery is seen and includes cliffs lining the shores, the Rocky Islands, sandy beaches, and common sightings of eagles, herons, turkey vultures, hawks, and turtles.
Minnesota, Clearwater County
The Mississippi River was called the Father of Waters by Native Americans, and this paddling adventure begins at the mighty Mississippi's headwaters. You will pass wild rice beds, rocky outcrops, past cattails, over a logging dam, past high wooded banks and sedge meadows. There are a variety of bird species on this trip; the Mississippi Headwaters Flyway is the home and migratory stop to a several bird species. Wildlife that may be seen along the way include Deer, beavers, and otters, all of which are often seen in the marshlands; timber wolf are sometimes seen as well. Be apprised that most people camp one or two nights on this trip, so if time affords plan for a two or three day weekend adventure.
Montreal River: Saxon Falls - Highway 122
Wisconsin, Iron County
The Montreal River is spectacular and it runs through breathtaking canyons, awesome waterfalls, and stunning scenery of high cliffs and rock outcroppings. A steel staircase descends the steep bluff to the put-in just downstream of Saxon Falls, with a total drop of 78-feet. As canyon walls appear on the right you will encounter the first of many Class II drops. Whenever you see a cliff face ahead you can expect rapids, usually in the form of an irregular ledge. Cedar, birch, maple, pine, spruce, and hemlock abound on the cliff tops and on lower banks. Take out upstream of Superior Falls and the dam on Highway 122.
Black River: Melrose - North Bend
Wisconsin, Jackson County
6.582306 ft
The Black River, previously placid, becomes a whitewater river at this point. Except for the impoundment of Lake Arbutus, the rest of the river is relatively high in gradient and filled with boulders. On this section, however, the whitewater has subsided and it is a wonderful, scenic and relaxing trip. Rock formations, forested banks, and lovely cliffs provide spectacular views. This section is the most popular on the Black River because of its accessibility with many great landings, its wild setting, and its suitability for beginners and families.
Wisconsin River: Pine Island - Dekorra
Wisconsin, Columbia County
6.5088806 ft
The Wisconsin River starts as a small stream near the Michigan border and flows south, then west for 430 miles before joining the Mississippi near Prairie du Chien. Many other smaller rivers and creeks join it along the way and make it a major American River. With 26 hydropower dams along its course it is called "The hardest working river in America." This section is loaded with sandbars and islands. You will pass the historic city of Portage, beautiful scenery in a wild setting, and have many opportunities to spot wildlife.
Cloquet River
Minnesota, Saint Louis County
This Cloquet River paddling adventure offers an excellent wilderness trip down a highly touted Class II river. The class II rapids along this section of the river have been given the name Camp G. Rapids; portage is a viable option for any who wish to avoid these rapids. Be apprised that there are camping options along the way for those who have the time to make this a two day adventure; Cedar Bay Campground is located at the endpoint of the adventure.
Kickapoo River: Ontario - Rockton
Wisconsin, Vernon County
The Kickapoo River travels through one of the most rugged portions of Wisconsin, the heart of the Driftless Area. It is incredibly twisty as it winds past spectacular bluffs and sandstone cliffs. This section is the best on the Kickapoo with good steady current, a narrow streambed, fantastic rock formations, and a truly memorable wild setting. You will likely run into other paddlers, especially on the first half of the trip as there is a rental establishment nearby. The river is mostly quietwater with only one series of notable riffles after the third bridge. The scenery is spectacular and there are many things to see.
See more adventures..
Explore complete list
Explore nearby adventures
Best Back-Country Skiing in Minnesota
Best Climbing in Minnesota
Best Trail Running in Minnesota
Best Sea Kayaking in Minnesota
Best Canyoneering in Minnesota
Best SUV in Minnesota
Best Mountain Biking in Minnesota
Best Trails in Minnesota
Best Bouldering in Minnesota
Best Canoeing in Minnesota
Best Snowmobile in Minnesota
Best Kayaking in Minnesota | Best Adventures
Browse the best waterways in Minnesota. Find a new spot to hike, bike, run and enjoy the outdoors. See the best adventurers in the state, user comments and reviews.