Paddle Kettle River rapids through Banning State Park
from the beginning of April to the middle of October
Guided tour, Rafting gear
Explore the Kettle River on a guided whitewater rafting or kayaking trip from Sandstone, Minnesota. Paddle through Banning State Park and take on rapids like Blueberry Slide, the Dragon's Tooth, and Hell's Gate.
Plan to arrive 20 minutes early to get outfitted.
Cancel 7+ days before: 100% refund. Cancel within 7 days to 48 hours: 50% refund. Cancel within 48 hours: no refund. Reschedule within 1 week: $20 per person fee. Operator may alter/cancel due to severe weather or safety. No refunds if refused service for drugs/alcohol.
Arrive 20 minutes early so you can get outfitted before the trip starts.
Use on-street parking or nearby municipal lots in downtown Sandstone.
The operator may alter or cancel a tour due to severe weather, river conditions, or other circumstances beyond their control and in the interest of safety.
Sandstone, MN
Tony and his team have built something genuinely special on the Kettle River, just 90 minutes from the Twin Cities. Guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge, safety focus, and ability to make first-timers feel comfortable and confident on the water. Beyond the rapids themselves, the experience includes cliff jumping, a swim-up waterfall, and scenic stretches of rocky cliffs that reviewers compare to travel magazine photos. Tony in particular gets called out by name repeatedly, and it shows in how personally invested the guides are in making each trip memorable. One thing worth knowing before you book: water levels on the Kettle River vary significantly by season, and that directly affects how intense the rapids will be. Spring tends to bring higher, faster water, while summer runs are mellower and more scenic. The team adapts the watercraft accordingly, switching between large rafts and inflatable tandem kayaks depending on conditions. Most reviewers embrace this flexibility, but a few who expected Colorado-style whitewater left disappointed. If you go in knowing what kind of experience fits the season, you're almost certain to have a great time.
First time ice climber and had an amazing experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot. They took care of everything for us. We will definitely be coming back.
Scott Boynton
January 29, 2026
First time ice climber and had an amazing experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot. They took care of everything for us. We will definitely be coming back.
Scott Boynton
January 29, 2026