Canoeing & Kayaking locations

Milwaukee Urban Water Trail

Paddle your way to relaxation – or attack the waters for an invigorating workout!

The Park System allows you to portage (carry) your non-motorized watercraft across park land and to launch into the rivers controlled by the Department.

Designated Access Sites

Kletzsch Park Sluiceway – site near picnic area #5
Kletzsch Park Falls – upstream site, just north of Mill Road
Kletzsch Park Falls – downstream site, just south of Mill Road
Lincoln Park Fishing Pier - East Bank of the river, north of Hampton
Estabrook Dam - upstream of the "shark's teeth"
Estabrook Dam - downstream site at natural beach
Estabrook Dam - portage trail
Riverside Park - East Bank access near the Urban Ecology Center
Pere Marquette Park - West Bank access
River Front Boat Launch - site at South Water and Bruce Street
Because this site has Launch Ramps, there is a charge to launch motorized as well as non-motorized watercraft. For details see the Boat Launch Sites.

Access Sites listed above along with non-Milwaukee County Parks access sites are illustrated on the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail map, available at the Milwaukee Riverkeeper Website.

Restrictions

You must not trailer your watercraft across parkland, because this causes damage to the surrounding environment.
You must not put your craft into a lagoon. Watercraft are not allowed on lagoons without the written permission of the Department.
You must not land upon the shores of a golf course.

For your safety . . .

Know your ability.
Be aware that water/weather conditions can change rapidly.
Let someone know your plan (when you will leave, your route, when you expect to return).
Know about hypothermia and wear appropriate clothing to insulate your body, such as a wet or dry suit. This is especially important for kayakers.
Have the proper safety equipment, including a personal flotation device, hand-held pump, flares, reflective tape, and a sound-producing device such as a whistle or air horn.
For general conditions, call the Port of Milwaukee at (414) 286-3610.
Use common sense!