Awesome trips
Minnesota's Water Trail system includes 30 rivers and the north shore of Lake Superior. There is a Water Trail within a 1-2 hour drive from most locations in the state. We encourage you to explore all of our fantastic water trails! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Day Trips from the Metro Area
Cannon River
St. Croix River
Crow River (North Fork)
Rum River
Mississippi River
Weekend Overnight Trips
St. Croix River
- Route: State Highway 48 to State Highway 60 (33 miles)
- Highlights: River is a National Scenic Riverway.
- More about this water trail
or
- Route: State Highway 60 to Wild River State Park (31 miles)
- Highlights: River is a National Scenic Riverway.
- More about this water trail
Root River
Zumbro River
Whitewater Rivers (experienced whitewater paddlers only)
Kettle River
Through Banning State Park 16 miles with class II to IV rapids. The 7 miles through St. Croix State Park have class I-II.
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St. Louis River
Scanlon to Thomson Reservoir 5 miles of Class II-III rapids. The 7 mile section through Jay Cooke State Park is class II-VI (kayaks recommended).
- Only river in the state with whitewater rafting.
- Water level can vary significantly, but generally navigable by experienced whitewater paddlers. Check river level conditions before you go.
- National Kayak Center is located in Carlton.
- More about this water trail
Snake River
Near Mcgrath 13 miles of class II-III rapids. The 13 miles from Pine City to the St. Croix River has Class I-II rapids.
More about this water trail
Vermilion River
Has 39 miles of scattered I-VI rapids.
More about this water trail
