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Float nine miles of the Brule River from Hwy 13 to Lake Superior—dozens of Class I–II rapids, wide shoals, and a finish on the cold edge of the Great Lake. This easy, shuttle-supported trip is ideal for groups and paddlers who want playful water with a memorable lakeshore ending.
Float nine miles of the Brule River from Hwy 13 to Lake Superior—dozens of Class I–II rapids, wide shoals, and a finish on the cold edge of the Great Lake. This easy, shuttle-supported trip is ideal for groups and paddlers who want playful water with a memorable lakeshore ending.
Book with Brule River Canoe Rental
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Operated by Brule River Canoe Rental · Brule, Wisconsin
The F1: Hwy 13 to Lake Superior (Easiest) run on the Brule River is a nine-mile paddle that drops from Hwy 13 to the shingle-strewn shore of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin. Located near Brule, Wisconsin, this 3½–5 hour float stitches together dozens of Class I and II rapids, broad shallow riffles, and quieter pools where you can level your strokes and listen to wind off the big lake. Head to Brule River Office to check in; the shuttle takes care of logistics so you can focus on reading the river.
The run’s character changes as you move downstream. Early stretches pack lively, quick rapids that let kayaks and tripping canoes play with current and eddy lines; midriver the channel opens and shoals appear, exposing gravel bars and fast, sunlit runs. Closer to Lake Superior the river eases into longer, flatter water that feels colder and wider, framed by glacially scoured bedrock, mixed northwoods of pines and birch, and occasional rocky points that funnel wind and water toward the lake.
This trip works best when flows sit between about 160 and 250 cubic feet per second; lower flows expose shoals and make some rapids bony, while higher flows increase speed and remove obstacles. Kayaks are recommended for maneuverability, though canoes are perfectly acceptable if you prefer a roomier craft. Rentals include shuttles and a range of boats—sit-on-tops through large tandem kayaks—so groups of varied experience can join.
Expect to see common Northwoods wildlife: osprey and bald eagles hunting the river, loons on calmer pools, and white-tailed deer along the shoreline. Photography rewards are strongest at the lakeward finish where the river meets Lake Superior’s cold light; sunrise and late afternoon bring long shadows and glints on riffles. Bring layers—temperatures often drop as you approach the lake—and a dry bag for camera gear.
Why this stretch matters: finishing a river paddle by putting your boat on the edge of Lake Superior is an elemental experience unique to this part of the region. It connects inland river running to one of North America’s largest freshwater coasts and stitches recreational paddling into the area’s outdoor economy. Whether you’re chasing playful class II runs or easing into a scenic day float, the Hwy 13 to Lake Superior trip offers accessible whitewater, memorable endpoints, and a straightforward shuttle via Brule River Office.
Plan to check flows and weather before launching, and allow extra time for shuttle turnaround—the lake’s wind can turn the final miles into an exposed paddle. Families with paddling skills will find gentle sections suitable, while experienced paddlers can scout and run the quicker riffles. Carry a whistle, wear a PFD at all times, and treat changing temperatures near the lake with respect.
easy.
3–5 hours.
Moderate: basic paddling endurance for several hours and ability to carry or load gear for shuttle transfers.
Head to Brule River Office to check in for this trip.
Expect about 3½–5 hours on the water depending on flow and group speed.
This route is rated easiest for the area, suitable for paddlers with basic stroke control and some experience in moving water.
Rentals and shuttle options are offered; shuttle-only passes are available if you bring your own boat.
Avoid very low flows below recommended levels (under ~160 cfs) and days with strong onshore winds that make the lakeward finish exposed.
Yes—families with children who can swim and handle basic paddling will enjoy gentler stretches, but supervise near rapids and the lake finish.
The Brule River corridor has long drawn anglers and paddlers; its access to Lake Superior links inland waterways with regional fishing and transport history.
Practice leave-no-trace and pack out all trash; avoid disturbing shorebird nesting areas and limit group size to reduce bank erosion.
Brule River Canoe Rental operates in Brule, Wisconsin, offering guided and self-guided paddling trips on the Bois Brule River. The outfitter provides canoe, kayak, and whitewater options along varied routes that range from easy family floats to multi-day camping adventures. Trip choices include short scenic floats, rapids runs, and extended camping itineraries that finish at Lake Superior. Rentals include required gear and shuttle service for many trips, with options for two-day and three-day camping trips. The company features popular runs such as Stones – Winneboujou, Highway 13 to Lake Superior, Winneboujou to Town of Brule, and multi-day routes like Stones Bridge to Pine Tree Landing (2-day) and Stones Bridge–Lake Superior (3-day). Many trips pass historic bridges, scenic homes, bogs, meadows, and fast currents suitable for paddlers seeking thrills or relaxed exploration. The river’s combination of crystal-clear water, towering pines, and varied rapids attracts families, anglers, birdwatchers, and whitewater enthusiasts. Safety and convenience are emphasized through provided gear, shuttle logistics, and clear trip classifications so paddlers can select routes that match experience levels. On multi-day camping adventures, the outfitter provides camping gear and route support. Located in the Brule area, the business serves day visitors and overnight paddlers seeking access to the “River of Presidents” and Lake Superior. Brule River Canoe Rental focuses on reliable rentals, accessible entry points, and a range of trips that make paddling the Bois Brule River approachable for diverse skill levels. Reservations are recommended during peak season to secure preferred routes, equipment availability, and shuttle timing for groups.
Book with Brule River Canoe Rental