Best White Water Rafting In Minnesota
Minnesota might be known for lakes, but we have flowing rivers as well that hold their own as some of the most majestic in the country. The Mississippi starts here, after all. How best to enjoy them? Well a relaxed canoe trip can be nice, and floating lazily lets you enjoy the sun and surrounding views. For those looking for something a little more exciting, however, something to get their blood pumping and the adrenaline going, nothing short of rapids will do. Here are a few ideas on how best to enjoy the wilder side of Minnesota's rivers.
Superior Whitewater Rafting
Begins at Hoyt Lakes, through Superior National Forest, to Lake Superior
3212 Rivergate Ave.
Cloquet, MN 55720
www.minnesotawhitewater.com
The only river actually designated by the Minnesota DNR as a whitewater river trail, the St. Louis River is a crazy trip that shouldn't be attempted alone unless you're an expert. But there are plenty of guides that can take you through this, including Superior Whitewater Rafting to give you a firsthand experience. Located just outside of Duluth, the beautiful landscape and incredible river will give you an experience you won't find anywhere else.
Hard Water Sports
979 Charles Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
(651) 302-1774
www.hardwatersports.com
Getting wet and wild enough to rate a class IV, the Kettle River is a stunning trip through Banning State Park. Rapids with names like the Dragon's Tooth and Hell's Gate, offer a thrilling trip not for beginners. The park itself is an epic place as well, as you'll be hitting turbulence with some of the state's most majestic wildlife and beautiful landscape. If you travel long enough, you'll enter into St. Croix State Park, where the rapids might be a little milder, but the views are just as stunning. You can enter the water on your own accord (although it's smart to check the levels first), or book a guided trip through Hard Water Sports.
Swiftwater Adventures
22 E Riverside Road
Esko, MN 55733
(218) 451-3218
www.swiftwatermn.com
While much of this river route is fairly peaceful, you'll definitely hit rapids along the 40 miles between Lake Vermillion and Crane Lake. Many of the rapids range up to level VI difficulty. The serenity of northern Minnesota will be on full display, but don't let that fool you into thinking the water is going to be serene as well. Be sure to check water levels before embarking on your journey. With various well-worn portages throughout the trip, including Vermilion Dam, Belgium Fred's Rapids and the Gorge, you'll be able to take full advantage of the river.
River Ramblers
(507) 434-2956
www.river-ramblers.org
You don't want to take it slow. You want to hit the water and you want the water to hit back. Not so sure where to begin? Sign up for one of the many trips with the River Ramblers, a Minnesota organization dedicated to our wonderful rivers, and our temperamental rapids. Through the various routes, you can hit the hardest of Minnesota's rivers and really be a part of a community dedicated to boating, kayaking, canoeing and rafting.
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.
