The Upper Midwest is home to some of the most scenic and thrilling rivers in the United States, making it a perfect destination for family-friendly whitewater rafting adventures. Whether you're new to rafting or just looking for an enjoyable outing with the kids, there are plenty of beginner-friendly routes that offer calm waters mixed with gentle rapids, stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to create lasting memories.
In this guide, we'll explore the best whitewater rafting routes in the Upper Midwest that are ideal for families, offering a balance of fun, safety, and easy access to nature.
St. Croix River - Minnesota/Wisconsin Border
The St. Croix River is a wonderful option for families looking for a laid-back rafting experience with occasional gentle rapids. Stretching along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, the river provides stunning views of towering bluffs, forests, and wildlife, while the water remains mostly calm with occasional mild rapids.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Gentle Rapids : The St. Croix has Class I to Class II rapids, making it perfect for first-time rafters and families with young kids.
- Scenic Beauty : The river passes through beautiful parks, natural preserves, and quiet coves, perfect for a relaxed day on the water.
- Wildlife Watching : Keep an eye out for deer, beavers, and a wide variety of birds as you float along.
Notable Routes:
- The Taylors Falls to Osceola route is a popular family-friendly stretch, offering a smooth ride with plenty of opportunities to explore riverbanks.
Kickapoo River - Wisconsin
Located in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin, the Kickapoo River is famous for its meandering path, clear waters, and beautiful countryside. With its gentle rapids and relaxed pace, the Kickapoo is perfect for families looking to enjoy a fun day on the river without too much intensity.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Class I Rapids : The river features mostly Class I rapids, which are very easy for beginners to navigate. Families can paddle at their own pace, enjoying the serenity of the river.
- Calm and Quiet: The Kickapoo is known for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a more relaxed rafting experience.
- Stunning Landscape : The river runs through valleys and rolling hills, making the surrounding landscape as enjoyable as the rafting itself.
Notable Routes:
- The route from Ontario to Wauzeka is especially scenic and easygoing, with plenty of opportunities to stop, swim, or picnic along the way.
Fox River - Wisconsin
The Fox River, running through southeastern Wisconsin, is another excellent option for families looking for an introduction to whitewater rafting. With mild rapids and scenic surroundings, this river offers an ideal setting for an easy yet memorable rafting experience.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Mild Rapids : The Fox River features Class I rapids, which are perfect for beginners. While the current is gentle, there are occasional small rapids that add excitement.
- Family-Friendly Access : Multiple launch points and easy access to riverfront parks make it a convenient location for families to enjoy a day of rafting.
- Historic Sites : The Fox River is rich in history, and families can enjoy spotting historic sites or taking a break in one of the picturesque riverside towns.
Notable Routes:
- A trip from New London to Shiocton is a great choice for families, providing a mix of calm sections and a few fun rapids, all while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
La Crosse River - Wisconsin
Flowing through the heart of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, the La Crosse River is an ideal family-friendly rafting destination. It's a perfect place for beginners who want to enjoy the peaceful flow of the water while also experiencing some mild rapids.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Class I to II Rapids : The La Crosse River offers beginner-friendly rapids, with some Class II sections that provide a bit of excitement without overwhelming novice rafters.
- Scenic Views : Surrounded by towering limestone bluffs and thick forests, the river offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
- Easy Access : There are several access points along the river, making it easy for families to find the right stretch for their skill level.
Notable Routes:
- The route between West Salem and La Crosse is an excellent option, providing smooth water for most of the trip, with some gentle rapids for added fun.
The Namekagon River - Wisconsin
The Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, is another fantastic family rafting destination in the Upper Midwest. The river is known for its clear waters and mild rapids, making it perfect for families who want to experience the thrill of whitewater without the challenge of intense rapids.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Easy Rapids : The river features mostly Class I rapids with some mild Class II sections, ideal for beginner rafters.
- Wildlife and Nature : The Namekagon offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, from otters and beavers to an array of bird species.
- Family-Friendly Float : With plenty of calm stretches, families can take their time to enjoy the water and take breaks at the sandy beaches along the way.
Notable Routes:
- The section between Trego and Stone Lake is a popular family-friendly route, offering a relaxed pace with scenic views and minimal obstacles.
The Wolf River - Wisconsin
For families looking for a longer rafting experience, the Wolf River is a great option. Known for its beautiful wilderness setting, the Wolf River features calm stretches along with a few gentle rapids, making it ideal for beginners.
Why It's Great for Families:
- Class I Rapids : The Wolf River offers mostly Class I rapids, with some areas of Class II rapids that add a bit of excitement without being too challenging.
- Peaceful Environment: The river flows through forests and marshlands, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
- Wildlife Encounters: The Wolf River is home to many species of wildlife, including eagles, otters, and a variety of waterfowl.
Notable Routes:
- The stretch from Langlade to White Lake is a great route for families, offering calm waters interspersed with just enough action to keep things exciting.
Conclusion
The Upper Midwest offers a wealth of beginner-friendly whitewater rafting options for families, with scenic routes, mild rapids, and easy access to nature. Whether you're looking for a short day trip or a longer adventure, these rivers provide a perfect setting for families to enjoy the outdoors and experience the thrill of rafting together. So grab your paddles, pack your gear, and embark on an unforgettable family rafting adventure in the Upper Midwest!