Wolf River

Quick Facts about this section

distance:

most difficult rapids:

approx. trip time:

elevation drop:

average gradient:
(feet per mile)

12.7 miles

class III+

6 hours

179 feet

14.1 fpm

photo gallery and printable map and guide

River Highlights

Wolf River (W5)
Markton, County M Bridge to Big Smokey Falls

This is the one of the premier whitewater runs in Wisconsin next to the 'Roaring Rapids' of the Peshtigo, and 'Pier's Gorge' in the Menominee River. There are five class 3 to class 4 rapids in the final four miles including several falls with drops over 5 feet. The most noteworthy are the Dalles Rapids, a scenic run through a narrow gorge, and Big Smokey Falls, an excellent boofing drop. Only advanced-level whitewater paddlers should attempt this stretch.

This is a very popular rafting trip with several excellent outfitters offering their services. This stretch is often split into various full-day and half-day trips. Popular full-day trips include County M to Big Smoky Falls, and Highway 64 to Shotgun Eddy. Feature half-day trips include County M to Shotgun Eddy, and Otter Slide to Big Smokey Falls. The trips are often booked according to your skill level and experience.

If you are not using one of the rafting / shuttle services you will need to obtain a permit from the Menominee Indian Reservation to access the river. Contact Big Smoky Falls Rafting at 715.799.3359 or Shotgun Eddy Raft Rental at 715.882.3782 for more information.

Locals commonly refer to the stretch between the Wild Wolf Inn Landing in Markton and Big Smokey Falls as "Section 4"

Season

The river is usually navigable throughout the warm weather season. The best paddling is from the snow melt-off through about mid-July. The rapids can become scrappy during dry spells, especially in late summer and fall.

River Level Information

river gage location: Highway 64 Bridge, Langlade, northeast bank
suggested minimum level: 7.6 feet / 200 cfs
on the web: USGS River Gage - Langlade