There is a lot to be said about the independence of paddling your own canoe or kayak when exploring Wisconsin Dells. We generally don’t recommend paddling either Lake Delton or the “Lower Dells”, (Which is the Wisconsin River section below the dam.) during the the summer season. It’s just too busy. We will focus here on the “Upper Dells”. This is still a very busy area, but if you choose the right time and the keep your wits about you, you can still have an amazing experience.
Our favorite trip is simple. Just launch from Illinois Ave and head north (up river) until we feel like turning back. Round trip to the popular Witches Gulch (through the narrows) is about 7.5 miles. Paddling against the current is no big deal unless the river is high. If so, paddling through the Narrows section of the river can be challenging if not impossible. This trip will take you through the best of the Wisconsin Dells. You’ll see high cliffs, amazing formations, and find ledges you can tuck your canoe or kayak under simply for fun. You’ll also find a nice number of little side canyons to explore.
There are spots where you can stop off for a picnic lunch, but watch for private land postings along the way. We recommend the Dells of the Wisconsin State Natural Area. (See map.)
River Access
Access to the Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Dells can be limited. You have to hunt for launching and landing areas. The safe bet for the upper Dells area would be to go downtown then run left on River Road, then left again on Illinois Ave. There you’ll find parking along the road right on the river bank with an easy launch for paddlers. This spot also keeps paddlers far enough away from the Dam to cause much worry. You do, however, have to keep your eyes out for power and tour boats which pose the most risk to paddlers on the Upper Wisconsin Dells.
Summer Boat Traffic
One thing we must deal with when paddling on the Upper Dells is the boat traffic. During peak season it is nothing less than insane. Boats of all sizes are jammed in the river. What’s more recreational boaters often are ignorant of paddlers and not only come close to hitting you, but will throw up some big wakes that will challenging to less skilled boaters. Be sure to watch traffic carefully through the Narrows as well. We recommend peak season paddlers hit the water during the week and early in the morning to avoid the most summer traffic. Better yet paddle in spring and fall when the fair weather boaters are still indoors.
If you are interested in protecting your access to the Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Dells, let us point you to the Stewards of the Dells…
