Yes, self-guided river kayaking and lakefront kayaks, paddle boats, paddleboards, and hydro bikes are popular with Milwaukee area residents and visitors alike. Milwaukee is one of the fastest growing tourist and visitor destinations in the country.

We offer many promotion and event options throughout the paddling season!

For our self-guided scenic Milwaukee River kayaking we primarily operate on two sections of the river between Mequon, Thiensville and Brown Deer. These trips are generally reserved ahead of time and operate at scheduled departure times. You meet us at a park, hop in our van, then we drive you upriver about 10 minutes, get you geared up and give an orientation, then you paddle back to your car at your own pace.

We also have a location at the Dock at  Discovery World in downtown Milwaukee. We have paddle boats, hydro bikes, kayaks and paddleboards for rent by the hour. You can explore the calm, clear, protected waters of the inlet by Lakeshore State Park and Summerfest. While reservations are encouraged, you can just show up and paddle to enjoy views of the downtown skyline and Lake Michigan!

You can book online through our website. If you have a private group request or need assistance, feel free to contact us!

No. All of our experiences are beginner friendly. We take safety seriously and always provide you with high quality gear, safety instruction and orientation.

Forward Outdoor is all about making outdoor adventures easy and accessible. We offer scenic one-way kayaking on the upper Milwaukee River as well as paddling at the Dock at Milwaukee’s iconic Discovery World. Here you can rent paddle boats, kayaks, paddleboards and hydro bikes.

Milwaukee River Kayaking: Please reserve your spot through our website to ensure your participation. If it is same day please call or text us at 414-261-3871 to check availability.

Dock at Discovery World: While reservations are recommended, you are always welcome to just walk up and rent paddle boats, hydro bikes, kayaks and paddleboards during our open hours. In cases of inclement weather please call or text us to ensure operations.

Cancel 48+ hrs ahead for full refund. 24–48 hrs = 50% refund or credit. Under 24 hrs = no refund. We operate rain or shine, but cancel for lightning or high winds with full refund or reschedule.

Milwaukee River Kayaking
Renters must be 12 years or older to paddle a kayak solo. Younger children can ride in a tandem kayak with an adult. Children must weigh at least 35 pounds due to life jacket regulations.

Dock at Discovery World
Paddleboats: Minimum age of 1 year old.
Kayaks: Minimum age of 12 to paddle a single kayak alone. Younger children can ride in a tandem kayak with an adult, with a minimum weight of 35 pounds.
Hydro Bikes: Must be at least 12 years old and be able to reach the pedals on either single or tandem hydro bikes.

Yes! Life jackets (PFDs) are included with all rentals and must be worn while on the water.

A river shuttle lets you paddle one-way without worrying about how to get back to your car. Here’s how it works:

1. Park your car at a park we designate for that day’s river section (where you’ll finish your trip).
2. Hop in our van, and we’ll transport you upriver to the start.
3. We provide you with top quality gear, safety instruction and orientation.
4. Paddle back to your car at your own pace—no need to worry about moving vehicles or extra logistics!

• $49 per single kayak rental (includes van ride upriver)
• $89 per tandem kayak rental (includes van ride upriver)
• $25 to shuttle you and your own boat

Paddling times depend on the section, water levels, and your pace. Most trips take 2-3 hours. Specific details for each river section can be found on our River Kayaking page.

Yes! We offer shuttle-only service for those bringing their own boat (must be 16′ or shorter to fit in our trailer). It is only $25 per boat (can be either a single or tandem).

While we are personally big fans of dogs, due to allergies of other guests and liability dogs are not allowed at this time on our river trips. We do, however, allow small dogs on our paddle boats at our Discovery World location.

We recommend:
✔️ Water & snacks
✔️ Sunscreen & bug spray
✔️ Hat & sunglasses with a strap
✔️ Waterproof phone case (we can provide)
✔️ Change of clothes in your car
✔️ Dry bag for valuables (we can provide)

We generally operate rain or shine. If conditions are unsafe due to storms, high water, or strong winds, we will reschedule or refund your trip. We’ll notify you as soon as possible.

Nope! All of our rentals are beginner-friendly. We will even provide you with safety instructions and an orientation. The calm waters of the Lakeshore Inlet are perfect for learning as there is very little boat traffic, the water is clean and you are never too far from our dock or a shoreline.

Absolutely! Paddle boats and tandem kayaks are especially popular with families with smaller children. Some specifics:
Paddleboats: Hold up to 4 people and can accomodate children as young as 1.
Kayaks: Must be 12 to paddle a single kayak alone. Children under 12 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Minimum weight is 35 pounds due to life jackets.
Hydro Bikes: Minimum age is 12.

Walk-ups are welcome, but reservations are recommended on busy summer days.

Lake conditions can change quickly. For safety, we may limit certain watercraft depending on weather conditions.