Canoeing on the Namekagon River
Shuttle Service Available Nearby in Trego
The Namekagon River is the northern tributary of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a federally protected wild and scenic waterway stretching 250 miles through Wisconsin and Minnesota. The Namekagon flows for some 50 miles through Washburn County.
Most of the Namekagon portion of the riverway is entirely undeveloped, offering canoeists a genuine wilderness experience. The riverbanks and surrounding areas are abundant with deer, muskrat, beaver, turtles and blue herons. Osprey and bald eagles are also often seen. The Namekagon River offers everything from rapids for the experiences canoeist to wide, quiet flowages below the dams. In most places, no development has been allowed within sight of the river, providing miles of unsurpassed beauty for canoeists and backpackers.
“This corridor provides scenic views and a haven for wildlife. The clean, sparkling river water shelters native mussels, dragonflies, and fish. Overhead, eagles, osprey, kingfisher and warblers fly and nest. Closer at hand raccoons, fox, and bear may be glimpsed. Color bursts forth from trilliums and marsh marigolds, followed by asters, cardinal flowers and the changing fall colors. A wealth of wildlife viewing awaits those who seek it.
A glimpse of the River’s past can also be seen on the landscape. A stone wall, a steel ring, a cabin or a metal bridge recalls earlier times. Dakota, Ojibwe, voyageurs, loggers and settlers have all known this river. Whether solitude or a shared experience is desired, you too can come to know this river. Today, we hope that the river leaves its mark on you, but that you do not leave a mark on the river.” ~ National Park Service
Fishing on the Namekagon River
Deer in velvet along the shore
Canoeing on the Namekagon River