| Upper Wisconsin River: The
upper Wisconsin (Vilas and Oneida Counties to Merrill) is a relaxing way
to view the natural beauty of the Northwoods. Winding through forest and
farmland, the majority of the river offers a slow current with few obstacles.
There is a portage at the Rainbow Lake Dam. Rainbow Rapids offer some excitement,
but the rocks are usually submerged. For more information, contact the Wisconsin
DNR station in Rhinelander at 715-362-7616. |
| Tomahawk River: Offers
a medium to fast current including two difficult rapids on the lower stretches
of the river. Access is available at dams and road crossings. |
| Turtle River: A relatively
unknown and unspoiled river flowing 27 miles through Iron County lakes and
wilderness into the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage at Lake of the Falls. Some Class
II to III rapids that may require portaging depending on water levels. Portage
at Shay's Dam Fall is required. Numerous public access points. |
| Manitowish River: A
river for variety and fun. Flowing from Presque Isle in Vilas County, through
Boulder Junction and Manitowish Waters, to the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage in
Iron County. The upper portion connects 25 lakes including the famous Manitowish
Chain of Lakes. With numerous access points and boat landings, peddlers
can design trips of any length. Downstream the lower portion is steady current
flowing through beautiful north country into the flowage. Great opportunities
for wildlife viewing, especially eagles. Low to medium-hazard rapids and
riffles. Canoe rentals and access maps available locally. |
| Bear River: Tranquil
and unspoiled, with great opportunities to see wildlife. Much of the 25-mile
course passes through the Lac du Flambeau Chippewa Reservation. Upper portions
are narrow with a steady current though pine forests;the lower stretch passes
through Powell Marsh narrowing again before joining the Manitowish River
as it enters the Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. Low hazard riffles. Several access
points off town roads. |
| Flambeau River: One
of the best whitewater trips in the Midwest. The north fork provides the
most stable water flow. Its upper reaches are slower and easier to paddle,
the southern sections provide the challenge of rapids and whitewater. The
most traveled stretch is from Nine Mile Creek to Ladysmith. Nine Mile Creek
is near Hwy 70 where the North Fork flows into the Flambeau River State
Forest. There are landings along the way, so a trip can last a few hours
or a week. The Upper Flambeau above Nine Mile Creek and the stretch below
Ladysmith to its junction with the Chippewa are also canoeable. Access is
available at road crossings, impoundments, and old logging roads. |
