White Water Rafting Wisconsin

Are you thinking of doing a white water rafting trip?

Would you like to get on an adventure ride?

Do you want to try out some white water rafting adventure in the Wisconsin area?

If you haven’t tried white water rafting yet, or haven’t given it a shot in the Wisconsin area, then this is the article you definitely need to read once, so that you don’t miss out on a really good rafting spot! Not sure what makes it such a great destination for white water rafting, or why you should give it a try? We’ll share it all here.

From some of the best rafting spots that you can choose, to the perfect season, things to keep in mind and review of certain places, we are sharing it all in detail. Make sure to read the pricing idea, the pros and cons as well as other features of some places you can choose when you want to go white water rafting at Wisconsin.  

What makes Wisconsin a great destination for white water rafting?

If you have never gone for a white water rafting trip in Wisconsin yet, here are some reasons you should keep in mind and definitely plan a trip!

Option #1

Different rapids to choose from:

• Even though the Wisconsin area is not the same as the Grand Canyon, you can still find a variety of rapids to choose from.
• There are a few rivers in this area that do have class II to class IV rapids.

Option #2

Easy and difficulty levels for all:

• The waters in the Wisconsin area have a good mix of slower rapids as well as the faster and rougher ones.
• This means that whether you are more of a beginner and want to have a fun relaxed adventure, or want out-and-out adventure, you can get it all here.

Option #3

Varying seasonal options:

• The good part about choosing a white water rafting trip here is that you can get your dose of adventure here through different seasons.
• The waters in this area are perfect for a white water rafting trip in the summer as well as in the spring.

Option #4

Enjoy breath-taking scenery:

• While you move through the waters on the rivers in Wisconsin, you will also be awed by the natural beauty that you see around you.
• Keep your eyes open for beautiful tree-lined shores, majestic granite formations and gorgeous waterways.

Is this really a top of mind destination for white water rafting?

While the first name that pops to mind when you talk about white water rafting is the Grand Canyon, the Wisconsin area is also now one of the most loved and popular destinations for those who are looking to get some adventure.

This is because it offers:

• Different budget options to choose from
• Long weekend, short weekend, long trips, mini vacation, short trips – lots of variety
• Gorgeous scenery along the way
• Different types of rapids to choose from
• Fun and adventure for all age groups

3 of the best white water rafting spots in Wisconsin

Option #1

Wolf River

Trip cost/price: $
Exact location: Takes place on the Wolf River in Menominee County
Trip duration: 3 hours

Difficulty/skill level

• Moderate to Difficult
• These are not guided trips.
• These are best for adults who know how to swim.
• Some of the rapids are strong enough to knock you out of the raft.

Description of the site/area

• This adventure takes place on the Wolf River.
• It usually has rafts that carry 2 to 3 people at one go.
• These are self-guided trips and are perfect for your group of friends or family.
• It is best to avoid taking young children or senior citizens on these, as some rapids are quite rough.
• This is a scenic stretch.
• Operators will provide you with raft rental options, paddles, helmets, life preservers and so on.

Pros

• Travels through a series of class II – IV rapids
• 7 foot drop on the way (perfect for the adventure seekers)
• Big drop over final waterfall (perfect for the adventure seekers)
• Takes only 3 hours – perfect for those short on time.

Cons

• Rafts have no guides
• 7 foot drop on the way (may not suit all)
• Big drop over final waterfall (may not suit all)

Option #2

Menominee River

Trip cost/price: $
Exact location: Menominee River in Midwest
Trip duration: 3-4 hours

Difficulty/skill level

• Beginner to Moderate
• Minimum age is 5 but in case of paddling class IV section, it’s 12 years.

Description of the site/area

• This adventure takes place on the Menominee River.
• It begins around the 200 foot cliffs bordering the Michigan and Wisconsin stretch.
• This is one of the biggest white water in the Midwest.
• It’s a 4 hour drive from Chicago and Minneapolis.
• It usually has rafts that carry 6 to 8 people at one go.
• Class III to IV rapids.
• It is best to avoid taking young children or senior citizens on these, as some rapids are quite rough.
• This is a scenic stretch.
• You will go through Piers Gorge which is a stretch of class IV rapids that will add more thrill to the trip. Most of the time, you will be taken for a second round on this stretch to give you more taste of adventure.
• Operators will provide you with raft rental options, paddles, helmets, life preservers and so on.

Pros

• Helpful guides.
• Perfect for those who are looking for some thrill
• Beautiful landscape.

Cons

• Not the best for families with young children or senior citizen.

Option #3

Peshtigo River

Trip cost/price: $
Exact location: Peshtigo River outpost
Trip duration: 2-3 hours

Difficulty/skill level

• Easy/Beginner to Moderate and Difficult

Description of the site/area

• This adventure takes place on the Peshtigo River.
• It is known as the longest and continuous stretch of white water in the Midwest area.
• The river has Class II to IV rapids.
• It has different rapid levels that are perfect for the younger children as well as for older people.
• This choice is a scenic stretch.
• You will go through Piers Gorge which is a stretch of class IV rapids that will add more thrill to the trip. Most of the time, you will be taken for a second round on this stretch to give you more taste of adventure.
• Operators will provide you with raft rental options, paddles, helmets, life preservers and so on.

Pros

• Variety of rapids
• Beautiful scenery
• Perfect for families

Cons

• Could be very long for some

When does white water rafting season start and end in Wisconsin?

The white water rafting season in Wisconsin is usually between April and November. Please check with your tour provider to find out the exact dates.

Is it advisable to go during peak season or off-peak months?

Peak season:

Advantages

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• Bigger groups to mingle with
• More fun at camp sites

Disadvantages

• More crowded
• This option may not get rafts of choice

Off season:

Advantages

• Rafts of choice
• More personalized attention

Disadvantages

• Lesser activities at camp site
• This offer may seem more quiet and less adventurous

Once you have chosen a spot where you want to go for white water rafting, make sure you pay attention to all the information shared by the tour provider and the guides. Take care of your safety and have a good time.