Novice Routes

Betterly Waterfowl Area to Downtown New Richmond

On this novice route, the river moves slowly through forested and open areas near Betterly Waterfowl Production Area. Keep an eye out for local and migrating birds as you enjoy a relaxing paddle into the New Richmond Flowage (“widespread”) and Downtown New Richmond. This section of the river starts in a more scenic area and slowly transitions into homes and businesses along the shore as you near New Richmond. Take outs are available at Mary Park or Mill Pond.

  • Launch: 160th St. Bridge

  • Parking: Yes, unpaved. If accessing from the south, parking area is on the right just north of the bridge. If accessing from the North, parking is on the left just before the bridge.

  • Access: Unpaved path. Possible to access river with small craft.

  • Take out: Downtown New Richmond, Mill Pond

  • Parking: Large parking lot.

  • Access: Dock on the right after Knowles Ave bridge.

  • Note: This route ends just upstream of the New Richmond dam (dam symbol)

  • Mileage: 6 miles

  • Time: 2- 4 hours

  • Portages: None. Take out before dam. Portage around the dam to continue on the Willow.

Out and Back: New Richmond Flowage (“Widespread”)

Explore the shores of Mary Park and “the widespread” or drop a line, sit back, and relax on the water. This is a great route for beginners or anyone looking for easy paddling with accessible parking and boat access, close to downtown New Richmond.

  • Launch and take out: Mary Park

  • Parking: Large parking lot. ADA accessible.

  • Access: Concrete boat ramp. ADA accessible. Fishing pier.

  • Public restrooms available at Mary Park.

Downtown New Richmond (Below Dam) to the Nature Center

This is a great route for people who are looking for a quick but beautiful float on the Willow River. The Nature Center take out is on river left after you pass under the Hwy 64 bridge.

  • Launch: Below Dam River Access

  • Parking: Downtown New Richmond large parking lot. Carry boat on the Doughboy Trail to Below Dam River Access.

  • Access: Sidewalk and paved trail (Doughboy Trail) leads to canoe carry in.

  • Take out: Nature Center

  • Parking: Paved parking lot.

  • Access: Concrete landing at Nature Center, with gravel path leading to parking lot.

  • Mileage: 2 miles

  • Time: 30 minutes

  • Portages: none