Brule River D2: Pine Tree to Hwy 13 — 9-Mile Canoe & Whitewater Shuttle

D2: Pine Tree – Hwy #13 follows a 9-mile reach of the Brule River in northern Wisconsin, launched near the Pine Tree put-in along Highway 13 just outside the small town of Brule. This four-hour run is a concentrated taste of the North Woods: red pines and balsam fir line the banks, granite and glacial erratics crop up at the river’s edge, and a sequence of riffles, chutes, and long pools keeps paddlers engaged from first stroke to final eddy.

The trip is offered by Brule River Canoe Rental (see meeting point: Brule River Office), which packages rentals, size-specific kayaks and canoes, and a shuttle so you float downstream without a worry. Options range from casual tandem canoes to whitewater canoes and one-person whitewater kayaks; shuttle-pass rates for bring-your-own craft make single- or group-run logistics simple. Typical pricing runs from $42–$94 depending on craft and weekend rates—exact options include shuttle-pass-only rates as low as $42 and full-rental plus shuttle options reaching $94 on peak weekends.

What makes D2 special is how accessible serious river features sit beside forgiving water: long flatwater sections reveal pine-strewn banks and sand deposits ideal for a lunch stop, then a short series of ledge drops and tight chutes demand focused strokes and good river reading. The geography feels local—glacially-scarred bedrock, frequent outcrops, and younger riparian growth—so you see both old growth pines and regenerating stands shaped by past logging and fire cycles. Expect typical northern Wisconsin species: white-tailed deer foraging near the bank and kingfishers darting over riffles.

Logistics are straightforward: meet at the Brule River Office to check gear and load the shuttle; float the 9 miles to the Hwy 13 takeout. The operator’s shuttle service and range of craft sizes (S-M, L-XL, XXL) make it a good choice for mixed-experience groups. For paddlers wanting a more technical challenge, whitewater canoe and kayak options are available.

Whether you’re chasing playful waves or a long, easy float, this stretch is a singular day on the Brule River. It’s a regional classic because it balances hard-pack whitewater skills with accessible scenery and simple logistics—the kind of run that introduces newcomers to river paddling while still scratching the itch of experienced paddlers. Bring a dry bag, wear layered synthetic clothing, and plan for a shuttle pickup at the Hwy 13 takeout to make the most of this northern Wisconsin river day.

Reserve weekend slots early—weekend rates and limited boats can fill quickly in late spring runoff and peak fall color. Wear a PFD, carry a small first-aid kit, pack water plus layered rain gear. Leave no trace: pack out trash, avoid trampling banks, respect private property along roadside access points to help keep this river open to paddlers.