Can beginners participate in the sunset paddle?

Yes, the event is beginner-friendly with multiple boat options and no required experience.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, personal flotation devices are available and required for all paddlers.

What happens if the weather is bad?

In case of inclement weather, the event is rescheduled to the following day.

Is the event open to the public?

This paddle is exclusive to members of Wingra Boats only.

Can I bring children on the paddle?

There are no specified age limits, but check with the organizer for best safety practices.

How do I reserve my spot?

Reservations are required due to limited space—RSVP early to secure your participation.

Experience Madison’s Tranquil Member Sunset Paddle on Lake Wingra

Madison, Wisconsin, is renowned for its vibrant outdoor culture and scenic lakes, and Lake Wingra sits at the heart of this natural playground. The Member Sunset Paddle offers a unique opportunity to experience the lake’s serene waters as the sun paints the sky in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple. This exclusive, members-only event takes place at 824 Knickerbocker Street, providing paddlers with a calm and intimate setting to unwind after a day of adventure or exploration in the city.

Lake Wingra is a relatively small urban lake known for its ecological importance and scenic beauty. Its shallow waters support diverse aquatic plants and wildlife, making every paddle stroke a chance to connect with nature. What sets this paddle apart is the timing and atmosphere; paddlers glide quietly through gentle ripples while the evening light softens the landscape, making it one of the most peaceful and picturesque experiences in Madison.

The event caters to all skill levels, offering a variety of craft including stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and rowboats. Whether you prefer a solo quiet glide or a social outing with friends and family aboard a larger vessel, the flexible boat options allow you to tailor the experience to your comfort and group size. With capacity limits carefully designed for safety and enjoyment, every participant can relax and focus on the moment.

Beyond the paddle itself, the event highlights the strong community spirit of Wingra Boats. After the 2-hour glide on the lake, participants enjoy light refreshments and casual mingling, making it the perfect way to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts, share stories, and celebrate another day spent in the outdoors. This thoughtful combination of activity and social connection exemplifies the welcoming, local pride that defines Wingra Boats—the heartbeat of Madison’s outdoor recreation on Lake Wingra.

Madison’s downtown core is just minutes away, making this paddle easily accessible for visitors staying in the city. The calm, protected waters of Lake Wingra make it ideal for quiet nature appreciation alongside an active outdoor lifestyle. The natural setting supports local wildlife such as turtles and songbirds, which add life to the dusk scene, while the lake’s history as a protected space helps ensure the environment remains pristine for generations of paddlers.

For those seeking a reflective yet uplifting end to their day, the Member Sunset Paddle is a must-try. It balances gentle exercise, scenic tranquility, and inviting community energy, wrapped in the unforgettable backdrop of a Madison sunset reflected on the water.

About Madison Boats

Madison Boats is a boat rental and guided-experience provider based in Middleton, Wisconsin. The company operates pontoon rentals, captained pontoon charters, and paddleboard and kayak rentals that serve Lake Mendota, Lake Wingra, and local launch points including Marshall Boats and The Edgewater. Madison Boats offers a range of trip types to suit anglers, families, groups, and paddlers: fishing-ready pontoons equipped for up to eight anglers, captained pontoons departing from Marshall Boats and The Edgewater, a spacious 12-passenger pontoon for larger gatherings, and short hourly or multi-hour paddle and member rental options.

Each offering includes clear trip descriptions, available durations, and suggested destinations such as Picnic Point, Downtown Madison, Monona Bay, Spring Harbor, and Pheasant Branch Conservancy. Fishing pontoons come with rod holders, storage, and fish finder equipment to support a productive day on the water. Captained charters provide a licensed captain for a relaxed, stress-free experience. Paddle rentals are suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers and include staff guidance when requested.

Madison Boats focuses on safe, local lake experiences with options for private groups and casual outings. Reservations and scheduling are managed through established local launch partners. The company’s presence in Middleton positions it to serve residents and visitors seeking accessible access to Madison’s lakes and waterfront attractions. Madison Boats offers flexible booking windows, seasonal availability, and routine equipment maintenance; it operates within local boating and safety regulations and coordinates with launch partners to confirm reservation details, ensuring clarity about start times, return policies, and required member or tax-exempt documentation.