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WPG
A canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting guide to Wisconsin's most popular paddle rivers.

Montreal River, West Branch
Montreal River Canyon

Many consider this as one of the premier, advanced whitewater runs in the Upper Midwest. The canyon run features long continuous stretches of wavy class 2-3 rapids and ledges, with numerous wicked holes and many excellent play spots. At higher water levels, many of the drops and long pitches rate class 4, forming large haystacks and wave trains.

The canyon should only be attempted by advanced and expert kayakers, or by expert canoeists with float bags.

Most of the three-mile stretch is through the incredibly scenic Montreal River Canyon where sheer conglomerate walls rise more than 300 feet above the river. The rugged scenery in the canyon is among the best in Wisconsin. Pine, spruce and hemlock often cover the steep slopes and cliffs along with stands of birch and aspen.

While the gorge has spectacular scenery, it also creates a somewhat precarious situation, once you are committed to making the run you will not be able to change your mind. It is very, very difficult to get out of the canyon on foot after the first quarter mile. Jim Rada, author of 'Northwoods Whitewater', basically states that; in the interest of safety, "it's good to have a group mentality here" when attempting this run. Good advice.

This section sits between two huge waterfalls. The first; Saxon Falls, sits just above the put-in and has a total drop of 90 feet. Unfortunately, the falls usually run at a mere trickle, only providing a full cascade in the early spring during the snow melt-off, or after periods of heavy rainfall. The second is Superior Falls, which is located a few hundred yards north (downstream) of the take-out and has a total drop of 110 feet over several ledges.

This section of the Montreal West Branch forms part of the upper western border between Wisconsin and upper Michigan. The Montreal is also one of the few rivers in the US that flows northward, emptying into Lake Superior.

The West Branch is used for Hydro-electric power which means water levels fluctuate greatly! You must call the hotline before making the run to find out when the next release is (if there is one!). During dam release, the water level rises rapidly without warning and will change the character of the river dramatically. Always wear proper safety equipment, don't paddle alone, and be sure to let a friend or relative know where you are just in case.

Skill level ~ Craft

Advanced ~ Rocker Canoe, Whitewater / Creek Kayak

Season

The water levels are controlled by release from the Saxon Falls Dam. Excel Energy Power Company has set up a hotline with a recorded message about current conditions at 715.893.2213.

Opinions vary when it comes to good water levels for enjoyable paddling. For experienced paddlers, the best action is in the spring and occasionally in late fall. The river is usually too shallow to navigate in summer and fall.

River Level Information

phone contact: Excel Energy hotline (recording); 715.893.2213