Adventure Collective
Moonlight Paddles: Kayaking Adventures in Milwaukee, WI - Milwaukee

Moonlight Paddles: Kayaking Adventures in Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukeeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and anyone with basic physical ability to paddle comfortably while seated.

Overview

Experience Milwaukee’s rivers in a whole new light with a peaceful guided kayaking trip under the moon. Perfect for all ages, enjoy gear, instruction, and the soothing glow of night paddling.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Moonlight Paddle

let's watch the moon rise above the city by kayak - every month in summer - can't wait!!

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About This Adventure

Experience the enchanting beauty of the rivers under the moonlight with our Moonlight Paddles. Perfect for friends, family, or a romantic date, this guided kayaking adventure includes all necessary gear and a paddle lesson. Enjoy a serene evening as you glide through the water, illuminated by the moon and your headlamps.

Spend an evening out on our rivers as we explore the sites and sounds of our city by the light of the moon. Moonlight Paddles take place on the full moon (or a day or two before or after the full moon). Moonlight Paddles are fun, casual and make the perfect evening on our rivers with friends and family and make the perfect date night too.

We’ll launch from our dock before the sun sets and paddle back with the moon as it lights our way (along with our headlamps!). We will paddle upriver as far as time allows before turning around, paddling to the harbor and then back to our dock.

Moonlight Paddle includes kayak, life jacket, paddle, head lamps, paddle lesson and instruction.

2025 Dates: Wednesday, June 11th 7pm-9:30pm

Thursday, July 10th 7pm-9:30pm

Tuesday, August 12th 7pm-9:30pm

Tuesday, September 9th 6pm-8:30pm

Paddlers are required to wear life jackets on all of our guided tours including Moonlight Paddles. Life jackets are included in your rental (along with kayak and paddle). Moonlight Paddles are recommended for people over the age of 18. Families with children may attend as long as there is a parent and/or guardian with as a chaperone. Please call with questions, thank you.

WHAT TO BRING:

• You! • Water bottle filled with water • Sunscreen • Small coolers okay • Dress for the weather – consider bringing a windbreaker (do not wear jeans or heavy cotton) • Camera • ID • Towel to sit on (optional) • Paddle or biking gloves (optional)

WHAT WE WILL PROVIDE:

• Kayak • Life jacket • Paddle • Dry-bag (limited supply available) • Water, snacks and sunscreen are always on-hand • Paddle lesson and instruction • Safe and fun atmosphere

WHAT TO WEAR:

• Lightweight clothing (do not wear jeans or heavy cotton) • Sandals, flips or shoes with a thin sole • Rain jacket/windbreaker • Sunglasses and/or hat

UPON ARRIVAL:

• We will check you in. • We will outfit you with the proper kayak, life jacket and paddle. • We will provide introductions, review information and rules of the river. • Life jackets must be worn at all times when you are near or on the river.

CANCELATION INFO:

If this trip needs to be canceled due to weather or river conditions, we will notify you by phone and/or email and you can rebook for a different date or receive a full refund, whatever works best for you.

Adventure Tips

Bring a waterproof flashlight

A waterproof flashlight or headlamp ensures you can navigate safely and enjoy the scenery on dark stretches of the river.

Wear layered clothing

Temperatures drop at night, so come dressed in layers to stay warm and comfortable during your paddle.

Listen to your guide

Follow all safety instructions and stay close to your group to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Protect your phone and valuables

Use waterproof cases or dry bags to keep electronics and personal items safe from water exposure.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great blue herons
  • River otters

History

Milwaukee’s rivers once powered local industry and remain important natural corridors through the city.

Conservation

Efforts to maintain clean waterways and protect local wildlife help preserve this unique urban river ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Milwaukee

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof headlamp

Essential

Illuminates your path and allows hands-free paddling at night.

Layered clothing

Essential

Keeps you warm when temperatures dip after sunset.

spring specific

Insect repellent

Protects against mosquitoes and other bugs near the water.

summer specific

Dry bag

Essential

Keeps your personal items safe and dry during your paddle.