Chippewa River
(C2) County D Bridge to County A Bridge, Wisconsin Trail Guide

Trail Facts

Synopsis

Trail Review

This is considered the 'whitewater' segment of the Chippewa River. There are numerous riffles and several pitches of class 1 rapids that are relatively mild during low to medium water levels. None of the rapids are named.

There are several places where the river forks into fast narrow channels around large, wooded islands. While it's fun to explore the channels you must be mindful of overhanging trees which form strainers!

Densely wooded banks and scenic meadows continue to surround the river with a few houses and cottages scattered throughout. Bird life is abundant.

Season

The river is usually runnable from early spring through late fall. Novice paddlers need to exercise extra caution when the waters levels are high. High flows generally occur through early May, after periods of heavy rainfall, and when the Arpin Dam has a release. This is an excellent river to paddle in late summer and fall when many other rivers are experiencing low water volume. Contact the Wisconsin DNR office in Ladysmith (see below) for water levels before paddling the river.

River Level Information

River Gauge Location: Bruce, WI
Suggested Minimum Level: 1.5 feet / 400 cfs
USGS Website: USGS Gauge @ Bruce
Phone Contact for River Info: WDNR Office @ Ladysmith; 715.532.3911