Fall Colors & Salmon Run Kayaking on the Milwaukee River
Discover autumn riverbanks and look for salmon on a self-guided paddle
Duration
2 hrs
Includes
Kayak, gear, shuttle
Highlights
Explore the Milwaukee River by kayak on a self-guided outing through a wooded river corridor. This beginner-friendly route follows scenic, largely untouched riverbanks.
- Look for salmon migrating upstream from Lake Michigan on their annual spawning run, with sightings dependent on conditions
- Watch for changing leaves, with October typically bringing increasingly vibrant foliage
- Glide through mostly calm water in a stable sit-on-top kayak
What's Included
- Single or tandem kayak rental
- Paddle and life jacket
- Shuttle transportation upstream
- Basic paddling and safety orientation
- Use of a dry bag and/or floating phone case
Important details
- Ages 12+ for single kayaks. Children under 12 must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult.
- Minimum weight: 50 lbs. Standard single kayaks have a 300 lb capacity; larger single kayaks have a 350 lb capacity and are subject to availability.
- You may need to walk your kayak briefly through shallow sections.
- Pets are not permitted.
- Staff gratuity is not included in the listed price.
- No flip-flops. Do not paddle under the influence, and leave glass and Styrofoam off the river.
- The river section may change if water levels are too low for safe or enjoyable paddling.
- Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel at least 48 hours before departure for a full refund. Cancel 24–48 hours ahead for a 50% refund or credit. Cancellations under 24 hours receive no refund. Trips operate rain or shine; if the operator cancels for lightning or high winds, you'll receive a full refund or reschedule.
Product ID: B3R785
FAQs
Sit-on-top kayaks are easy to re-enter. The river is shallow in many areas, where you can stand to recover, or you can head to shore.
For your kayaking trip, park along the edge of the grass or on the entrance road at Badger Meter River Park if the marked spaces are full.
Yes. Badger Meter River Park has a portable toilet. Flush toilets are available at the launch in Thiensville Village Park and at Riverbarn Park midway along the route.
Meeting details
Badger Meter River Park, 3829 West Brown Deer Road, Brown Deer, WI 53209
