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    5. Guided Kettle River Whitewater Tour From Sandstone
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    Guided Kettle River Whitewater Tour From Sandstone

    Paddle Kettle River rapids through Banning State Park

    4.6 stars• 138 reviews
    From$74/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    from the beginning of April to the middle of October

    Includes

    Guided tour, Rafting gear

    Highlights

    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.

    • Meet your guide in downtown Sandstone, Minnesota
    • Paddle a rafting or kayaking route on the Kettle River
    • Run named rapids including Blueberry Slide and Hell's Gate
    • Travel through the heart of Banning State Park
    • Join trips running from early April to mid-October

    Things to know

    Plan to arrive 20 minutes early to get outfitted.

    Cancellation Policy

    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.

    FAQs

    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.

    Meeting details

    Sandstone, MN

    Experience provided by Hard Water Sports
    Experience provided by Hard Water Sports

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Report an issue

    Reference #ZB4GMX

    Saturday Paddler

    $74.20

    Saturday 75

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.6
    Excellent
    138 reviews•Google Maps

    Tony and his team consistently deliver memorable adventures on the Kettle River, with guides earning praise for being knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Reviewers love the thoughtful extras like sharing photos after trips, teaching local history during calm stretches, and taking groups to hidden gems like waterfalls and cliff jumping spots. The ice climbing experiences also get enthusiastic mentions. Depending on water levels, you might paddle tandem inflatable kayaks or larger rafts, which gives the experience some variety throughout the season. The main thing to know: this is Minnesota whitewater, not Colorado. A few visitors who drove significant distances expecting intense rapids left disappointed, particularly later in summer when water levels drop. The guides are upfront about conditions, but manage expectations carefully if you're chasing serious adrenaline. One review mentioned frustration with the owner's communication style on the river, though this seems like an outlier given the overwhelmingly positive feedback. For families or first-timers wanting a fun outdoor adventure just 90 minutes from the Twin Cities, with beautiful scenery and capable guides, this hits the mark perfectly.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    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.

    Photo of Scott Boynton

    Scott Boynton

    January 29, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    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.

    Photo of Scott Boynton

    Scott Boynton

    January 29, 2026

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