Explore Our Mississippi River Paddling Routes
One of the greatest advantages of paddling with Broken Paddle Guiding Company is access to some of the most beautiful and diverse waterways in the Upper Mississippi River Valley. From peaceful backwaters and wildlife refuges to scenic river channels surrounded by towering bluffs, every route offers a unique adventure and an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Driftless Region.
Discover hidden corners of the Mississippi River.
Whether you're joining one of our guided eco tours or planning a self-guided rental adventure, our carefully selected routes provide unforgettable experiences for beginners, families, photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and experienced paddlers alike.
Based in Wabasha, Minnesota, we specialize in helping guests discover hidden corners of the Mississippi River that many visitors never have the opportunity to see.
Why Paddle the Mississippi River?
The Upper Mississippi River is one of the most ecologically important waterways in North America. Its extensive network of islands, backwater channels, wetlands, and river forests creates a unique paddling environment unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.
The region offers:
Stunning river bluff scenery
Protected wildlife habitats
Bald eagle viewing opportunities
Quiet backwater exploration
Excellent birdwatching
Scenic photography locations
Family-friendly paddling areas
Opportunities for both short and extended trips
Every route reveals something different depending on the season, water conditions, and wildlife activity.
Waterways of the Driftless Region
From mirror-calm backwaters teeming with wildlife to stunning paths flanked by towering limestone cliffs, explore our hand-selected trails designed for every pace and skill level.
The Backwater Exploration Routes are not meant for beginners. We highly recommend going with a guide on these routes.
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Backwater Exploration Routes
The Mississippi River's backwaters are among the most popular destinations for paddlers seeking peaceful surroundings and exceptional wildlife viewing.
Protected areas feature:
- Calm water conditions
- Sheltered paddling environments
- Diverse bird populations
- Wetland ecosystems
- Scenic natural landscapes
Best For:
- Beginner kayakers
- Families
- Wildlife enthusiasts
- Birdwatchers
- Nature photographers
Backwater routes are ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing day on the water.
Guests frequently encounter bald eagles, great blue herons, turtles, pelicans, and other native wildlife while exploring these quiet waterways.
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National Wildlife Refuge Routes
As a permitted operator within the National Wildlife Refuge system, Broken Paddle Guiding Company offers access to some of the most remarkable conservation areas along the Mississippi River.
Provide opportunities to experience:
- Protected habitats
- Native wildlife populations
- Seasonal bird migrations
- Environmental education
- Scenic natural landscapes
- Refuge habitat exploration
Best For:
- Eco-tour participants
- Birdwatchers
- Conservation enthusiasts
- Educational groups
- Wildlife photographers
The refuge areas are particularly popular during migration seasons when thousands of birds travel through the Mississippi Flyway.
Perfect for all skill levels, these beginner-friendly routes offer easy paddling alongside towering limestone cliffs and breathtaking valley views.
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Scenic Bluff Routes
The Driftless Region is famous for its dramatic limestone bluffs and rugged landscapes.
Our scenic bluff routes allow paddlers to experience these iconic formations from the water while enjoying panoramic views of the river valley.
Highlights include:
- Towering river bluffs
- Forested shorelines
- Unique geological formations
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Excellent photography opportunities
Best For:
- Sightseeing
- Photography
- Couples
- Visitors exploring the Driftless Region
These routes are particularly popular among visitors looking to experience the natural beauty that makes southeastern Minnesota such a unique destination.
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Wildlife Viewing Routes
For nature lovers, few experiences compare to quietly paddling through wildlife-rich habitats where animals can be observed in their natural environment.
Designed to maximize opportunities for:
- Bald eagles
- White pelicans
- Great blue herons
- Ospreys
- Beavers
- River otters
- Turtles
- Waterfowl
- Native fish species
Best For:
- Birdwatchers
- Photographers
- Families
- Eco-tour guests
Wildlife sightings vary throughout the year, making every trip a unique experience.
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Family-Friendly Routes
Not every adventure needs to be challenging.
We offer several routes specifically suited for families, first-time paddlers, and guests seeking a relaxed experience.
Typical feature:
- Calm water
- Shorter travel distances
- Easy navigation
- Scenic surroundings
- Frequent wildlife viewing opportunities
Best For:
- Families with children
- First-time paddlers
- Casual outdoor recreation
- Group outings
Our guides can recommend family-friendly options based on age, experience level, and group size.
Eco-Tourism Focus
We're passionate about conservation and helping visitors develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Self-Guided Paddling Routes
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.
Short Scenic Paddles
Perfect for visitors with limited time who still want to experience the beauty of the Mississippi River.
Half-Day Adventures
Great for couples, friends, and families wanting to paddle together.
Full-Day Explorations
Ideal for experienced paddlers seeking a more immersive river adventure.
Seasonal Paddling Experiences
Each season offers a completely different perspective of the river.
Spring
- Migratory bird activity
- Blooming vegetation
- Active wildlife
- Dynamic river conditions
Summer
- Warm weather paddling
- Family-friendly adventures
- Peak wildlife viewing
- Long daylight hours
Fall
- Colorful foliage
- Crisp temperatures
- Scenic photography opportunities
- Fewer crowds
Many returning guests enjoy experiencing the same routes throughout different seasons to observe how the river changes over time.
Check the live river levels
Choosing the Right Route
The best paddling route depends on several factors:
Experience Level
We offer routes suitable for beginners through experienced paddlers.
Trip Duration
Choose from short excursions, half-day adventures, or full-day explorations.
Interests
Whether your focus is wildlife, photography, sightseeing, exercise, or relaxation, we can recommend the ideal route.
Group Type
Families, couples, solo adventurers, school groups, and corporate teams all have different needs, and we tailor recommendations accordingly.
Why Choose Us
Why Paddle with Broken Paddle Guiding Company?
Since 2012, we've helped thousands of visitors safely experience the Mississippi River and Driftless Region.
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.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Give us a call at (651) 955-5222 — we love talking river.
Which route is best for beginners?
Our backwater routes are typically the best option for first-time paddlers due to their calm water conditions and easy navigation.
Can I explore the routes on my own?
Yes. We offer self-guided rental options and can recommend routes based on your experience level.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife is unpredictable, but many of our routes offer excellent opportunities to observe birds, turtles, eagles, and other native species.
How do I know which route to choose?
Our team will help match you with the best route based on your goals, available time, and paddling experience.
Do guided tours use the same routes?
Some routes are available through both guided tours and self-guided rentals, while others are exclusive to guided experiences.
Start Your Next River Adventure
The Mississippi River offers endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and connection with nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful paddle through quiet backwaters, a wildlife-filled eco tour, or a full-day river adventure, Broken Paddle Guiding Company can help you find the perfect route.