Guided Kayak Tours & Eco Adventures on the Mississippi River
Discover the hidden beauty of the Upper Mississippi River with Broken Paddle Guiding Company. Since 2014, we've been connecting outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventure seekers to the breathtaking landscapes of Minnesota's Driftless Region.
12+
Years on the river
6
Signature eco tours
cpr
Certified guides
our mission
A different side of the river — and the people who know it best.
Based in Wabasha, Minnesota, we offer immersive outdoor experiences that reveal a side of the Mississippi River most people never see. Whether you're looking for a relaxing paddle through quiet backwaters, a guided wildlife tour through protected habitats, or a memorable adventure with friends and family, our experienced team is here to help you explore the river safely and responsibly.
As a permitted operator within the National Wildlife Refuge system, our mission is simple: help people connect with nature while preserving the incredible ecosystems that make the Mississippi River one of America's greatest natural treasures.
10+
guiding the wild river
Experience the Wild
The Mississippi like never before.
The Mississippi River is more than just a waterway—it's a thriving ecosystem filled with wildlife, scenic bluffs, hidden channels, and peaceful backwaters waiting to be explored. At Broken Paddle Guiding Company, we specialize in guided kayak tours and eco-tourism experiences designed to showcase the river's natural beauty. Our local knowledge takes guests beyond the typical tourist destinations and into places few visitors ever get to experience.
Along the way, you may encounter
Bald eagles soaring overhead
Great blue herons and migratory birds
River otters and native wildlife
Historic river landscapes
Scenic Driftless Area bluffs
Quiet backwater channels
Seasonal wildflowers and native vegetation
Whether you're a first-time paddler or an experienced kayaker, our tours are designed to create meaningful outdoor experiences for every skill level.
the heart of what we do
the heart of what we do
Guided Eco Tours for every adventure level.
Each tour combines outdoor recreation with environmental education, allowing guests to learn about the unique ecology, history, and wildlife of the Mississippi River while enjoying a fun and active adventure.
Flooded Forest Tour
$125/Adult, $105 Child, 2.5 10:00 AM Everyday / 3:30 PM Wed-Sun.
Paddle through one of the Mississippi River's most fascinating ecosystems as you explore flooded forests, hidden backwater channels, and wildlife-rich habitats. This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to experience areas inaccessible to most visitors.
Raptor Tour
$115/Adult, $95 Child, 8:30 AM Everyday
Discover why the Mississippi River Valley is one of North America's premier birding destinations. Our Raptor Tour focuses on bald eagles, hawks, osprey, and other birds of prey while exploring the river's protected habitats and migration corridors.
Sunset Tour
$115/Person, 2.5 Hours Before Sunset Wed-Sun
Experience the river during its most magical hours. As the sun sets behind the bluffs, enjoy peaceful paddling, stunning views, and incredible opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Stargazing Tour
$165/Person, 2.5 hours, Thu-Sat Nights
Meetup: Broken Paddle Guiding Co., Wabasha, MN (651-955-5222). Paddle calm, secluded channels into a wide shallow lake under a massive canvas of the night sky. Learn about our continent's largest river ecosystem, its biodiversity, nocturnal wildlife, and the wonders of the stars above. 100% smooth, shallow waters. (Includes travel, lesson, setup/breakdown).
Stand Up Paddleboard Tour
$125/Adult, $105 Child (12 and under) 3.5- 4 Hours Available times: By special request only
Explore the Mississippi River from a different perspective with a guided stand-up paddleboard adventure. Perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, this tour combines recreation, sightseeing, and outdoor fitness.
Large Group Private Tours
$125/Person, 3.5 hours,Flexible scheduling for groups of 10+. Smaller groups accommodated subject to availability.
Planning a corporate outing, family reunion, school trip, or special event? Our private group tours provide customized paddling experiences tailored to your group's size, interests, and adventure goals.
KAYAK 101
$130/Paddler, 2 - 2.5 hours,Weekday mornings - Contact to book, we’ll fit your schedule.
New to kayaking? Our Kayak 101 experience is designed to build confidence on the water through hands-on instruction, paddling fundamentals, safety education, and guided practice in a supportive environment.
Every tour is led by trained, CPR-certified guides who are passionate about sharing the natural wonders of the Mississippi River while providing a safe, educational, and memorable experience.
Independent Adventure
The Mississippi like never before.
Not every adventure requires a guide. For visitors who want flexibility, we offer high-quality rental equipment for independent exploration.
Stand-Up Paddleboard
Perfect for those looking for a unique perspective and full-body outdoor activity.
Flexible Rental Options
Half-day rentals
Multi-day Rentals
Full-day rentals
Group rentals
Special event rentals
Our team will help you select the right equipment and provide local recommendations to maximize your adventure.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Broken Paddle Guiding Company?
With over a decade of experience serving outdoor enthusiasts throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin, we've built our reputation on exceptional service, environmental stewardship, and authentic local expertise.
Local Knowledge
Our guides know the Mississippi River and Driftless Region intimately, allowing us to create experiences that go beyond standard sightseeing tours.
Safety First
All guides receive CPR certification and water safety training. Guest safety remains our top priority on every trip.
Eco-Tourism Focus
We're passionate about conservation and helping visitors develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Personalized Experiences
Unlike large commercial tour operators, we provide small-group experiences that feel personal, educational, and memorable.
Quality Equipment
We maintain a reliable fleet of kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and safety equipment to ensure every trip runs smoothly.
service area
Proudly Launching from Wabasha, Minnesota
Broken Paddle Guiding Company is based out of historic Wabasha, MN. We offer premier guided tours and high-quality equipment rentals across the region's finest interconnected waterways, including:
The Mississippi River
The Chippewa River
The Zumbro River
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Give us a call at (651) 955-5222 — we love talking river.
Do I need kayaking experience?
No. Many of our tours are beginner-friendly, and our guides provide instruction before every trip.
What should I bring?
We recommend comfortable outdoor clothing, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure.
Are children allowed?
Yes. Many of our tours are family-friendly and suitable for younger paddlers.
How long are your tours?
Tour lengths vary depending on the experience selected, ranging from a few hours to full-day adventures.
Do you provide safety equipment?
Absolutely. All required safety gear is included with guided tours and rentals.
Book Your Mississippi River Adventure Today
Whether you're interested in a guided eco tour, kayak rental, canoe excursion, paddleboard adventure, or private group outing, Broken Paddle Guiding Company is ready to help you experience the Mississippi River like never before. Contact our team today to reserve your adventure and discover why outdoor enthusiasts throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin choose Broken Paddle Guiding Company for unforgettable paddling experiences.
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Call now or book online to start your next adventure on the Mississippi River.
