Wisconsin river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in Wisconsin with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
Another must-visit spot is the Wolf River, specifically the "New London Rapids" stretch, which offers a mix of Class II and III rapids through a scenic wooded area. Ideal streamflow levels for the Wolf River are between 500-1500 cubic feet per second. Safety is paramount when tackling these whitewater runs, so be sure to wear a helmet, life jacket, and appropriate footwear. It's also a good idea to paddle with a buddy and familiarize yourself with the river's features before setting off. With its diverse range of river runs and stunning natural landscapes, Wisconsin is a top-notch destination for whitewater and kayaking adventures that will leave you wanting more.
Wisconsin river runs
Every paddleable section in Wisconsin keyed to a named USGS gauge. Sortable, quickly filterable. Tap any one for current discharge and the gauge it reports off.
| River run | Streamflow | Class |
|---|---|---|
| South Branch Origin In Sec 25, T38n, R14e To Confluence With Main Branch | 101 cfs | III |
| Forest Road 2398 To Eastern Forest Boundary | 101 cfs | II-IV |
| Wallace Cemetery Approx 2.5 Miles Nw Of Herod, Il To Confluence With Ohio River At Golconda Jobs Corp Center | 5,780 cfs | II-III |
About Wisconsin river runs
What does whitewater class mean?
The international whitewater scale (Class I–VI) rates a river's difficulty. I is moving water with riffles. II is straightforward rapids with clear channels. III requires complex maneuvers in fast water. IV is intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring decisive boat handling. V is extremely long, obstructed, or violent rapids with significant hazard. VI is considered impossible to run.
Where does the Wisconsin streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each Wisconsin paddle run is keyed to a specific gauge that paddlers and outfitters have agreed represents flow on that section. Gauges report every 15 minutes; we re-pull throughout the day.
What's a runnable level?
Run-specific. A creek that's classic at 200 cfs might be too low at 100 and dangerously flooded at 1,000. Always cross-reference with a guidebook or a Wisconsin paddling club for the run's accepted gauge ranges before launching.
Can I get an alert when a run hits prime flow?
Yes. Save any paddle run as a favorite in the Snoflo iOS app, set a flow window (e.g. "alert me between 800 and 1,500 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses into range. Free with a Snoflo account.
Is this a substitute for local guidebooks and trip leaders?
No. Snoflo is informational. Always carry appropriate skills, gear, and a sober assessment of the day's flow. For high-consequence runs (Class IV+), paddle with people who know the run and never solo. American Whitewater is the authoritative source for U.S. river information.