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

This section offers a fascinating blend of tree-lined parks, wooded stretches, and quiet backyards. It’s one of the most accessible ways to experience the Milwaukee River close to the city, with reliable water levels and regular wildlife sightings, from herons and turtles to deer. The journey starts just below the Thiensville dam and flows south toward Brown Deer, with a bathroom stop available about two-thirds of the way at Mequon’s River Barn Park. A great pick for those wanting a mellow paddle with a mix of natural beauty and neighborhood charm.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Put In: Village Park in Thiensville.
Take Out: Badger Meter River Park in Brown Deer.
Meeting Point/Parking: Badger Meter Park in Brown Deer. When the designated parking spots fill up there is free street parking on N Kildeer Ct at the entrance.
River Miles: 4.5 miles
Approx. Paddle Time: 1.75-2 hours
Bathrooms: Thiensville Village Park: Flush toilets. Badger Meter River Park: Porta-potty
Rapids: None

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: Badger Meter River Park, Brown Deer.

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.