Posted in Wisconsin
June 09, 2017
12 Lazy Rivers In Wisconsin That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day
Those folks next door like to tout their 10,000 lakes, but we here in Wisconsin known we’ve got just as many amazing lakes, rivers and waterways to enjoy. In fact, the state DNR says we have more than 8,400 miles of rivers in our great state.
While some of those rivers are mighty and some have powered mills and served industry, we’ve also got quite a few tamer rivers that serve as the perfect place to spend a few lazy summer hours.
In every part of the state, you can find a company or campground willing to rent you a few inner tubes and arrange transportation so you can take in the beauty of Wisconsin from another vantage point.
Here are 12 different river locations where you can find providers to give you tubing access for a lazy day of floating:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Way up in the northwest corner, almost all the way to Minneapolis, the Apple River has a bit of something for everyone - slow, relaxing water and some quicker moving rapids should help satisfy the adventure levels of everyone in your family.
There's two parts of the Wolf River here, so we're counting them separately. This part drops nearly 450 feet over 28 miles and the water is moving quickly. This is less of a lazy float and more of a challenge, but the water is crystal clear and the surroundings are spectacular. Located near the south end of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest definitely helps make this a worthwhile trip.
Heading south, this bit of the Wolf River is better for beginners as it provides some calmer water and more of a lazy experience. A bit north of Shawano, it's a little easier to reach and is more family-friendly in every way.
This tributary of the Chippewa River north of Eau Claire is a great spot to get out on the water, whether it's in canoes or inner tubes. The river is wide here and perfect for a lazy day.
A great tubing trip for beginners, the Crystal River is like training wheels for the bigger Waupaca River. And the float only lasts about an hour, so you can head out as many times as you'd like or get your fill with one and head home til the next time.
Over in the southwest corner of the state, almost to Iowa, the scenic Grant River cuts through some of the bluffs and rock ledges you're used to see on a bigger river a bit north of here.
There's a ton of small tributaries in this area, giving you plenty of places to hop on the water and chill out. But make sure you look up - the liklihood is you'll spot an eagle, loon or other wildlife as you float.
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Approximately three hours long, this trip is calm and relaxed and you can do it more than once in a day! As part of the St. Croix National Scenic Waterway, you know the views here are stunning.
Midway between Baraboo and Eau Claire, but right off I-94, this location is a bit of a hidden gem. Never crowded and with a bit lower water depth, you'll find some sandbars to relax on before you float on away.
The upper part of the Peshtigo, above Crivitiz, provides some of the best rapids anywhere in the state. But below the city the river widens and mellows out, making it the perfect spot for a float.
By far the most popular area due to its nearness to the Dells, this part of the river offers islands, sandbars and of course, the famous Dells that have been around for a few million years or so.
Located south of Madison near the Illinois border, the Sugar River is definitely the option closest to the state's two biggest cities. It's a perfect, calm, relaxing little float down the river here, perfect for a quick day-trip getaway.
Looking to check out even more of our nearly 9,000 miles of river? Check out 18 Rivers In Wisconsin That Are So Much More Than Just A Body Of Water
