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    5. Kettle River Whitewater Tour
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    Kettle River Whitewater Tour

    Tackle scenic Kettle River rapids in Banning State Park with experienced guides and quality gear

    From$65

    Search all experiences

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Includes

    Guided tour, Rafting gear

    Highlights

    Paddle the Kettle River through the heart of Banning State Park on a guided whitewater adventure. Take on scenic rapids with quality gear and experienced guidance.

    • Paddle the Kettle River through Banning State Park
    • Navigate rapids like Blueberry Slide and Hell's Gate
    • Experience the Dragon's Tooth and more
    • Choose rafting or kayaking for your adventure
    • Get outfitted with quality whitewater gear
    • Start just an hour north of the Twin Cities Metro

    What's Included

    • Guided whitewater tour
    • Rafting or kayaking gear

    Things to know

    Trips run from the beginning of April to the middle of October. Please arrive 20 minutes early to get outfitted.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellations 7+ days before tour receive a 100% refund; 7 to 48 hours, 50% refund; within 48 hours, no refund. Rescheduling within one week incurs a $20 per person fee. We may alter or cancel due to severe weather, conditions beyond our control, or for trip safety. Service may be refused to intoxicated guests. If minimum tour size is not met, the class may be moved.

    Meeting location

    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

    Reference #ZB4GMX

    Saturday Paddler

    $65.66

    Saturday 75

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

    4.6 stars• 138 reviews

    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