Our Favorite Places to Paddle in the Rhinelander Area

Enjoy the sunshine and beautiful waters in the Rhinelander Area with a paddling adventure. Whether you’re looking to try your hand at canoeing or kayaking, here are some of our favorite routes:

The Willow Flowage

Immerse yourself deep into Wisconsin’s Northwoods by paddling the Willow Flowage. Located in a remote area west of Rhinelander, the flowage covers 6,400 acres and is surrounded by swamps, bogs and other watery lowlands. You’ll also have access to 117 islands and seemingly endless backwaters.

Wisconsin River

Where the Wisconsin River passes through the Rhinelander area, you’ll find easy-flowing waters perfect for beginner paddlers or anyone looking for a relaxing time on the water. We recommend paddling from River Road to Bridge Road, a 3- to 4-hour journey that features great wildlife viewing.

Tomahawk River

Paddle through a mix of dense forest and meadowland down the Tomahawk River. Try the 4- to 5-hour route from Camp Nine Road to Cedar Falls Road, but make sure to take out before Smith Rapids! Advanced paddlers can try a couple routes: the 4- to 6-hour route from the Willow Flowage Dam to Highway K, or the 3- to 4-hour route from Highway K to Lake Nokomis. Each stretch includes class 2 rapids.

There are many other paddling opportunities on the Rhinelander Area lakes, rivers and backwaters. Click here for a full list of Rhinelander lakes.

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