Relax and let the current guide you.

Our river kayak adventures are self-guided and almost all are beginner-friendly. We provide the kayak, gear, and a shuttle ride upstream—so all you have to do is float back down to your parked car at your own pace. No loops, no backtracking, no hassle. It’s the perfect way to explore the outdoors without needing your own gear or experience. We primarily use stable sit-on-top kayaks(sit-ins also available), and the river is generally shallow, calm, and easy to navigate with occasional riffles or rapids that are detailed below.

Section-Specific Details

A relaxed paddle with a little spice—this suburban-meets-nature stretch of river offers easygoing flow, glimpses of backyard charm, and occasional wildlife along the way. For a bit more excitement, Option 1 is the full 3.5-hour route from Ehlers Park and includes a short set of Class I+ rapids near the start. Prefer a smoother ride? Try Option 2 for the 2.5-hour version launching at Peninsula Park. Both routes end at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Grafton and are great for paddlers of all skill levels.
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Put Ins: Option 1: Ehlers Park in Saukville, Option 2: Peninsula Park in Saukville
Take Out: Veteran’s Memorial Park in Grafton.
Meeting Point/Parking: Veteran’s Memorial Park in Grafton, there is plenty of free street parking
River Miles: Option 1: 8 miles, Option 2: 5.7 miles
Approx. Paddle Time: Option 1: 3.5 hours, Option 2: 2.5 hours
Bathrooms: Ehlers Park: Porta potties. Peninsula Park: Porta potty. Veteran’s Memorial Park: Flush toilets.
Rapids: A few riffles here and there, with one small Class 1+ rapid towards the beginning of the longer trip, but overall a great paddle for all levels. 

May 26 Departures:
9am: Option 1, 3.5 hours
10:30am & 12:00pm: Option 2, 2.5 hours

What’s Included:

• Single or tandem kayak rental​
• Paddle and life jacket​
• Shuttle transportation upstream​
• Free use of dry bag and/or floating phone case

What to Bring:

• Weather-appropriate clothing and footwear that can get wet​ (no flip flops)
• Towel and dry clothes for after the paddle​
• Water and snacks​
• Sunscreen and insect repellent​
• Hat and sunglasses
• Waterproof bag for personal items​

Pricing:

• Own Boat Shuttle Service: $25 per person​
• Single Kayak Rental: $55 per person​
• Tandem Kayak Rental: $95 for two people​

Meeting Location: Veteran’s Memorial Park, Grafton.

Day-Of Reservations:

Given the mobile nature of our operations, we load our trailer in the morning with pre-reserved boats plus a few extras. For same-day reservations, please text or call us at 414-261-3871 to ensure availability.​

Notes:

• About River Levels: The Milwaukee River is a natural, free-flowing waterway—meaning conditions can vary with rainfall. You may occasionally scrape the riverbed in shallower spots, and in rare cases, you might need to briefly exit your kayak to walk it through a low section. If water levels are too low for a safe or enjoyable paddle, we’ll switch to a different river section and notify you in advance.
• Participants must be at least 12 years old to paddle their own kayak. Younger children can join in a tandem kayak with an adult. Minimum weight requirement is 50 pounds due to life jacket specifications.​
• We encourage participants to assist in carrying kayaks to and from the launch site when possible.​
• This is a self-guided experience. While some participants may choose to paddle together, you are welcome to enjoy the journey solo or with your group.​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need prior kayaking experience?

No prior experience is necessary. Our adventures are designed to be beginner-friendly, and our team will provide a brief orientation before you set out.​ Any rapids are laid out in the section info above.

What happens if I tip?

Tipping is rare, but it can happen—especially if you’re horsing around or hit an obstacle just right. The good news? We primarily use sit-on-top kayaks, which are incredibly stable, easy to climb back into, and virtually unsinkable thanks to built-in drainage holes. We also offer sit-inside kayaks upon request. The Milwaukee River averages about 100 feet wide and is shallow enough to stand in many areas, so if you do tip, you can either climb back in from the water or head to shore to recombobulate and get back on your way.

What is the cancellation policy?

Our trips operate rain or shine unless there is severe weather. Cancellations made more than 48 hours in advance will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of departure are not eligible for a refund unless there is dangerous weather.

Can I bring food and drinks on the river?

Yes! Feel free to pack water, snacks, and beverages for your paddle. Alcoholic drinks are allowed, but please enjoy responsibly—boating under the influence is illegal and unsafe. There is a storage space in each kayak to bring a small cooler. We also ask that you leave glass and styrofoam at home to protect the river and wildlife. As always, follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you bring in, and help keep the river beautiful for everyone.

Are there age/weight restrictions?

Paddlers must be at least 12 years old to be in a single kayak. Anyone under 12 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Minimum weight is at least 50 pounds due to life jacket regulations. 

Weight capacity by boat:

• Standard sit-on-top(default): 300 pounds
• Larger sit-on-top: 350 pounds
• Standard sit-in: 275 pounds
• Larger sit-in: 325 pounds
• Tandem: 500 pounds

Can I bring my dog?

For safety and comfort, pets are not permitted on our kayaking adventures.​

What happens in case of bad weather?

We monitor weather conditions closely. In the event of severe weather, we may reschedule or cancel the trip for safety reasons. Participants will be notified as early as possible and offered a reschedule or refund.​

Are there restrooms along the route?

Restroom availability varies by section, see above.