Intermediate Routes

Nature Center to 100th St

This route weaves in and out of forests and prairies with little sign of houses or buildings. It is a great route for birdwatching. There may be the occasional fallen tree or gravel beach to keep paddlers on their toes as they navigate the twists and turns to 100th St.

Launch: Nature Center

Parking: Paved parking lot

Access: New concrete landing constructed in 2018, accessible via a gravel walking trail from the parking lot

Take out: 100th St

Parking: Unpaved. Park on grass on east side of 100th street.

Access: Unpaved path

Note: This route has some riffles and quick water

Mileage: 6 miles

Time: 2 - 4 hours

Portages: None. May have to walk boat in sections during low water or navigate over or around fallen trees depending on conditions.

100th St to County Rd E

Description: This route is one of the most scenic and unique sections of the Willow River Water Trail. Paddlers can easily get lost in the serene forests, open meadows, and trickling current and forget they are anywhere near civilization. But keep your wits about you to maneuver small obstacles in the narrow winding waterway and your eyes peeled for majestic sandstone cliffs that appear seemingly out of nowhere around the riverbend. Be sure to take out at the County Rd E access unless you are prepared to brave the class II rapids ahead.

Launch: 100th St

Parking: Parking allowed on shoulder near river

Access: Unpaved path

Take out: County Rd E

Parking: Willow River State Park parking fee applies. Pay by cash in envelope at kiosk

Access: Unpaved path

Mileage: 5 miles

Time: 2 - 3 hours

Portages: none