About Broken Paddle Guiding Company
At Broken Paddle Guiding Company, we believe the best adventures happen when people slow down, disconnect from everyday distractions, and reconnect with the natural world. Our mission is simple: to connect nature lovers throughout the Midwest to the hidden and rarely seen beauty of the Mississippi River and the Driftless Region through unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Our Ecotourism Mission
Crafting meaningful river adventures since 2012.
Since 2012, we've been helping guests discover the wild side of southeastern Minnesota through guided eco tours, kayak adventures, canoe excursions, paddleboard experiences, and self-guided paddling trips. What started as a passion for sharing the river has grown into a trusted ecotourism company dedicated to conservation, education, safety, and adventure.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another season on the water, our goal remains the same—to create meaningful outdoor experiences that leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
10+
guiding the wild river
Our History
Broken Paddle Guiding Company was founded in 2012 with a vision of introducing people to the incredible waterways, wildlife habitats, and scenic landscapes that make the Upper Mississippi River one of the most remarkable outdoor destinations in North America.
Over the years, the company earned a reputation for providing authentic paddling experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing tours. Instead of simply showing guests the river, Broken Paddle focused on helping visitors understand and appreciate the ecosystems, wildlife, and history that make this region unique.
Today, that vision continues under new ownership.
After spending more than a decade guiding tours and exploring the river's backwaters, islands, and hidden channels, the current owner stepped up to carry Broken Paddle’s ecotourism mission forward. His deep, firsthand understanding of the Mississippi River Valley—combined with a lifelong passion for outdoor recreation, habitat conservation, and environmental education—directly shapes and inspires every guided experience we offer today.
Our Legacy & Future
A decade of guiding, a lifetime of passion.
Ecotourism Philosophy
More Than a Tour Company
While many companies offer kayaking and outdoor recreation, Broken Paddle Guiding Company was built around a different philosophy. We are first and foremost an ecotourism company. That means our tours are designed not only to provide fun and adventure but also to foster a genuine connection between people and nature.
Explore Unique Ecosystems
Immerse yourself completely within rich, complex river landscapes away from all crowds.
Observe Wildlife Responsibly
Track native birds and aquatic animals safely within their natural unaltered environments.
Learn About Local Habitats
Ideal for adventurers who want to maximize their time on the water and explore multiple river sections.
Understand Conservation
Discover real-time efforts active in protecting our pristine Upper Midwest valleys.
New Perspectives
See the sheer architectural scale of the Mississippi River channels straight from the water line.
Deeper Appreciation
Our guests often tell us that they leave with a greater understanding of the river than they ever expected—and that's exactly what we hope to achieve.
The Mississippi River Is Our Classroom
Few places in the Midwest offer the diversity of landscapes found along the Upper Mississippi River.
The region is home to:
Protected wildlife refuges
Extensive wetlands
Scenic backwaters
Forested shorelines
Limestone bluffs
Migratory bird habitats
Native plant communities
Historic river ecosystems
These environments create an ideal setting for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, wildlife observation, photography, and environmental education.
Every season brings new opportunities to experience the river differently. From spring migrations and summer wildlife activity to spectacular fall colors, no two adventures are ever exactly the same.
A Commitment to Conservation
The future of outdoor recreation depends on protecting the places we love. As a permitted operator within the National Wildlife Refuge system, Broken Paddle Guiding Company works within some of the region's most environmentally significant areas. We take this responsibility seriously and strive to promote responsible outdoor recreation through every tour and rental experience.
By helping visitors connect with these landscapes, we hope to inspire long-term support for conservation and environmental protection.
Our guides encourage guests to practice:
Leave No Trace
Wildlife friendly
Stewardship
Respect habitats
Sustainable recreation
In Every Rental
Safety Is Always a Priority
We ensure a safe, confident, and positive experience for all skill levels through meticulous planning, professional training, and comprehensive pre-trip instruction.
CPR Certified
Water Safety Trained
Experienced in paddling instruction
Knowledgeable about local river conditions
Dedicated to guest comfort and safety
Why Choose Us
Why Guests Choose Broken Paddle
Visitors from throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin choose Broken Paddle Guiding Company because we offer something more than a standard outdoor excursion.
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 in historic Wabasha, MN. We offer premier guided tours, high-quality equipment rentals, and convenient shuttle services across the region's finest interconnected waterways, making it easy to enjoy a seamless paddling adventure from start to finish.
Shuttle Service Information
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.
How long has Broken Paddle Guiding Company been in business?
The company was founded in 2012 and has been providing guided outdoor experiences ever since.
Is Broken Paddle locally owned?
Yes. The company is locally operated by an owner who spent more than a decade working with the business before taking over ownership.
What makes your tours different?
Our eco-tourism approach focuses on connecting guests with nature through education, conservation, and immersive outdoor experiences.
Are your guides certified?
Yes. Our guides are CPR certified and trained in water safety practices.
Do you only offer guided tours?
No. In addition to guided eco tours, we also provide kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals for self-guided adventures.
Join Us on the Water
At Broken Paddle Guiding Company, we're passionate about helping people discover the beauty, wildlife, and hidden wonders of the Mississippi River.
Whether you're booking a guided eco tour, planning a family paddling trip, renting a kayak, or simply looking for a new outdoor adventure, we're here to help you experience the river in a way that's authentic, memorable, and inspiring.