Milwaukee Urban Water Trail
Trail Quick Facts
About the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail offers paddlers a unique opportunity to explore Milwaukee from the water, navigating over 60 miles of urban and interurban river routes through the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic Rivers, plus Cedar Creek. The trail also connects to over 60 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline access, creating a comprehensive water trail network serving the 1.5 million people of the Greater Milwaukee Metropolitan Area.
As a designated National Recreation Trail and American Canoe Association Recommended Trail, the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail provides safe and legal access to Milwaukee’s waterways, helping residents and visitors reconnect with the rivers that flow through their communities. The trail showcases Milwaukee’s remarkable transformation from industrial waterways to thriving recreational corridors.
Trail History & Revitalization
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail builds upon decades of effort to restore life to Milwaukee’s rivers. Improved water quality, riverfront redevelopment, increased public access, and growing recreational interest have transformed these waterways from overlooked industrial corridors into vibrant community assets.
The removal of the North Avenue Dam and other restoration projects have allowed over 30 species of fish to return to these waters. The Wisconsin DNR actively reintroduces sturgeon, walleye, and other native fish species that once thrived in the Milwaukee River system. Today, these rivers support recreation ranging from natural parkland reaches enjoyed for wildlife viewing to urban sections where paddlers can dock along the RiverWalk to enjoy local breweries, restaurants, and entertainment.
Difficulty Level
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail is rated as easy to moderate for paddling. The urban nature of the trail means relatively flat water with occasional current, making it accessible to beginners while still offering interesting challenges. Key considerations include navigating required portages around dams and falls, dealing with variable water levels based on rainfall, and sharing some sections with motorized boat traffic near the harbor.
The trail is excellent for both experienced paddlers seeking an urban adventure and beginners learning to kayak or canoe. Most sections feature calm water suitable for recreational paddling, though water conditions can change with weather and season.
Water Conditions & Flow
Water levels and flow vary significantly with rainfall and seasonal conditions. Higher water increases difficulty due to stronger currents, low bridges, underwater obstacles (strainers), concealed hazards, and low-hanging vegetation. Always check current conditions before paddling, as high water should be avoided for safety reasons.
The urban watershed means water levels can rise rapidly after heavy rain. Spring typically offers higher water levels from snowmelt and precipitation, while late summer may see lower flows. Lake Michigan connections provide more stable conditions but can be affected by wind and waves.
Weather & Seasons
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail is accessible during the ice-free season, typically April through October, though paddlers brave enough may extend the season in mild years.
Spring (April-May): Water levels typically higher from snowmelt and rain. Temperatures range from 40-65°F. Fewer crowds, excellent wildlife viewing during migration. Water can be cold; dress appropriately.
Summer (June-August): Peak paddling season with pleasant temperatures (65-85°F). More crowded, especially weekends. Afternoon thunderstorms possible. Best water temperatures for accidental swims. Prime time for combining paddling with visiting riverside restaurants and breweries.
Fall (September-October): Beautiful autumn colors along riverbanks. Comfortable temperatures (50-70°F). Fewer crowds than summer. Water levels may be lower. Season ends when ice begins forming, typically November.
Winter: Rivers freeze and become unsafe for paddling. Ice typically forms by late November or December and remains until March or April.
Milwaukee’s Three Rivers & Cedar Creek
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail encompasses four distinct waterways, each offering unique paddling experiences and character.
Character: The main artery of the water trail, flowing through urban and suburban Milwaukee
Highlights: RiverWalk District, downtown breweries and restaurants, Kletzsch Park Falls, Estabrook Falls, diverse wildlife habitat, connection to Lake Michigan
Notable Features: Passes through Milwaukee County Parks including Kletzsch Park, Lincoln Park, and Riverside Park. Connects to the revitalized Historic Third Ward and Walker’s Point neighborhoods.
Portages Required: Kletzsch Park Falls, Estabrook Dam (downstream)
Character: Urban river with industrial past, now undergoing transformation
Highlights: Menomonee Valley, South Menomonee and Burnham Canals, historic breweries and factories, urban wilderness feel, excellent birdwatching, solitude opportunities
Notable Features: Confluence with Milwaukee River, passes by Harley-Davidson Museum, connects to Hank Aaron State Trail, industrial architecture viewing, prime fishing along Burnham Canal
Best For: Paddlers interested in industrial history, urban exploration, and seeking quieter water away from crowds
Character: Wisconsin’s most urban watershed, largely channelized
Highlights: Historic boat-building heritage, commercial fishing history, remnants of maritime industry, intimate urban paddling experience
Notable Features: Many sections feature concrete channelization from industrial era. Despite urban character, offers unique perspective on Milwaukee’s maritime and industrial past. Good for shorter paddles.
History: Rich boat-building and commercial fishing heritage still visible along the route
Character: More natural, less urbanized tributary in Ozaukee County
Highlights: Connects Milwaukee County waterways to Ozaukee County access, more forested and natural setting, connects to interurban portions of water trail
Portages Required: Four dams along Cedar Creek require portaging
Notable Features: Bridge Street Dam (Grafton), Thiensville Dam, plus additional upstream dams. More rural character than the three main urban rivers.
Lake Michigan Connections
The water trail extends beyond the rivers to include over 60 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline access from Bender Park Beach in Milwaukee County to Harrington Beach State Park in Ozaukee County. These connections incorporate Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan Water Trail access points plus newly acquired county lakefront parks.
Lake paddling offers different experiences than river routes: open water, potential for waves and wind, spectacular sunrise views, beach access, and connections to state parks including Lakeshore State Park. Lake conditions require more advanced paddling skills and appropriate weather assessment.
Access Points & Launches
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail features numerous designated access points throughout Milwaukee and Ozaukee Counties, providing convenient entry to the water trail system. All access points are marked with signage indicating put-in and take-out locations.
Milwaukee County Park Access Points
- Kletzsch Park Sluiceway: Milwaukee River access near picnic area #5. Popular launch point with parking and park amenities.
- Lincoln Park Fishing Pier: Two launch locations on East Bank of Milwaukee River, north of Hampton Avenue. Accessible parking available.
- Riverside Park: East Bank access near the Urban Ecology Center. Great for combining paddling with environmental education programs.
- Riverfront Boat Launch: Located at South Water and Bruce Street, directly in line with Hoan Bridge. Pay launch fee at self-pay station. Can be busy with motorized boats, especially weekends. GPS: 600 S. Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Other Key Launch Sites
- Marine Terminal Lofts: Milwaukee River access across from downtown (subject to periodic closures for remediation projects)
- Between Hansen’s Landing & Harbor Point Condos: Public dock in Historic Third Ward on Erie Street, convenient low dock with street parking. Intersection: E. Polk Street and E. Erie Street
- Various Historic Third Ward Locations: Multiple access points near restaurants and entertainment
- Harley-Davidson Museum Area: Access to Menomonee River and connection to Hank Aaron State Trail
- Ozaukee County Access Points: Multiple launches along Cedar Creek and Milwaukee River’s northern reaches, plus Lake Michigan shoreline access at state and county parks
Lake Michigan Access
The trail connects to numerous Lake Michigan access points from Milwaukee County (Bender Park Beach) through Ozaukee County (Harrington Beach State Park). Lake access includes state parks, county beaches, and designated Lake Michigan Water Trail launch sites. Check specific locations for amenities, parking, and any usage fees.
Access Point Amenities
The water trail map indicates various amenities at each access point:
- Launch Type: Natural streambank, paddler-friendly dock, boat ramp, high pier
- Facilities: Restrooms, parking availability, potable water, picnic areas
- Accessibility: Some sites offer accessible features for paddlers with disabilities
- Nearby Attractions: Cultural, historical, and natural landmarks
- Use only designated access points for launching and landing
- Do NOT trailer watercraft across parkland (causes environmental damage)
- Do NOT launch into lagoons without written permission from Milwaukee County Parks
- Do NOT land on golf course shores
- Respect private property and neighboring residences
Planning Your Paddle
Permits & Fees
Excellent News for Paddlers: The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail itself is FREE to use! No permits or fees are required for paddling the water trail.
Exceptions:
- Riverfront Boat Launch: One launch site (South Water & Bruce Street) charges a fee. Pay at self-pay station.
- State Park Access: If launching from state parks (Lakeshore State Park, Harrington Beach State Park), Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission fee applies unless you have an annual park sticker.
- Marina Fees: McKinley Marina and other formal marinas may charge launch fees. Check specific locations.
Free Trail Map: Physical copies of the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail map are available free (suggested $5 donation to support trail maintenance and expansion). Contact Milwaukee Riverkeeper or download from their website.
Getting to the Trail
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail is remarkably accessible, with numerous launch points throughout the Milwaukee metropolitan area.
By Car: Most access points offer parking. Street parking available at many urban launch sites. Parking lots at park launches. Plan for limited parking at popular downtown locations on summer weekends.
By Public Transit: Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) serves many areas near water trail access points. Some launches are within walking distance of bus routes. Check current routes and schedules.
By Bike: Excellent option! The water trail connects to the Oak Leaf Trail system (135+ miles of paved trails), Beer Line Trail, and Hank Aaron State Trail. Many paddlers combine biking and paddling for multi-modal adventures.
Shuttle Services: Local outfitters may offer shuttle services for one-way paddles. Check with rental companies like Brew City Kayak and Milwaukee Kayak Company.
Route Planning
The water trail offers flexibility from short 1-2 hour paddles to full-day adventures.
Popular Short Routes (2-4 hours):
- Downtown RiverWalk District paddle with brewery stops
- Kletzsch Park to Estabrook Park (portage required at Kletzsch Falls)
- Menomonee River Burnham Canal exploration
- Historic Third Ward to Harbor District
Half-Day Routes (4-6 hours):
- Extended Milwaukee River paddle through multiple neighborhoods
- Lake Michigan shoreline exploration (weather dependent)
- Multi-river route connecting Milwaukee and Menomonee Rivers
Full-Day Adventures: Combine multiple river sections, explore Cedar Creek in Ozaukee County, or paddle extensive Lake Michigan shoreline segments.
- Use the interactive online map at mkeurbanwatertrail.org to plan routes
- Check current water levels and conditions before launching
- Identify all required portages on your route
- Note locations of amenities (restrooms, parking, food)
- Have backup plans for weather changes
- Consider current flow direction (generally downstream toward Lake Michigan)
- Plan for shuttle back to start point if doing one-way paddle
Best Times to Paddle
Weekdays: Less crowded, especially during business hours. Easier parking at popular downtown locations. More peaceful wildlife viewing.
Weekends: More social atmosphere, especially in RiverWalk District. Can be crowded at popular launches. Plan for more boat traffic near downtown and harbors.
Time of Day: Early morning offers wildlife viewing, calm conditions, and fewer crowds. Midday good for combining paddle with restaurant/brewery visits. Evening paddles provide beautiful sunset views and cooler temperatures in summer. Avoid paddling after dark without proper lighting.
Special Events: Milwaukee hosts various river festivals and events throughout summer. These can provide festive atmosphere but also mean more congestion. Check event calendars before planning paddles.
Conservation & Leave No Trace
Using the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail demonstrates your commitment to protecting waterways for future generations.
Water Trail Etiquette:
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Take all trash with you. No exceptions.
- Use Designated Access: Launch and land only at marked access points
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, never feed, avoid nesting areas
- Minimize Noise: Keep voices down to respect nature and neighbors
- Stay on Water: Don’t trespass on private property or unauthorized shorelines
- Report Issues: Contact Milwaukee Riverkeeper about litter, safety concerns, or pollution
- Be Considerate: Share waterways respectfully with other paddlers and boaters
- Protect Shorelines: Avoid damaging vegetation when launching/landing
Volunteer Opportunities
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail is maintained through volunteer efforts. Join river cleanups, help maintain access sites, participate in water quality monitoring, or assist with trail promotion and education. Contact Milwaukee Riverkeeper to get involved as a steward of these urban waterways.
Gear & Equipment
Essential Paddling Gear
Watercraft:
- Kayak: Most popular choice. Recreational kayaks work well for the generally calm urban waters. Sit-on-top kayaks good for warm weather. Length: 10-14 feet typical.
- Canoe: Excellent for carrying gear, fishing equipment, or paddling with a partner. More affected by wind.
- Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP): Growing in popularity on calmer sections. Best for experienced SUP paddlers. Not recommended in high current or wind.
Safety Equipment (Required/Essential):
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD): REQUIRED by law for each paddler. Must be Coast Guard approved. Wear it – don’t just have it on board.
- Whistle or Sound Device: Required for signaling. Attach to PFD.
- Paddle: Appropriate length for your height and watercraft. Bring spare if possible.
- Bilge Pump or Sponge: For removing water from kayak/canoe.
Safety Equipment (Strongly Recommended):
- Throw Rope: For assisting other paddlers in trouble
- First Aid Kit: Waterproof container with basic supplies
- Communication Device: Waterproof cell phone case or waterproof radio
- Navigation Lights: If paddling near dawn/dusk
- Reflective Tape/Gear: Increases visibility to motorized boats
Clothing & Protection:
- Appropriate Clothing: Quick-dry fabrics. Avoid cotton. Dress for water temperature, not air temperature.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (reef-safe recommended), sun shirts
- Wetsuit or Drysuit: For cold water paddling (spring/fall). Water below 60°F poses hypothermia risk.
- Rain Jacket: For changing weather
- Water Shoes or Sandals: For portages and launching
Other Useful Items:
- Dry bag for valuables, phone, keys, wallet
- Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Snacks/lunch in waterproof container
- Trail map (waterproof version or in dry bag)
- Trash bag for carrying out waste
- Bug repellent (spring/early summer)
- Small towel
- Change of dry clothes in car
Rental Options
Don’t own equipment? Multiple local outfitters offer rentals and tours:
- Brew City Kayak: Kayak and SUP rentals, guided tours of the water trail
- Milwaukee Kayak Company: Rentals and tours from downtown location
- Milwaukee Duffy Boat: Electric boat rentals (zero-emission, quiet)
- Urban Ecology Center: Canoe rentals at Washington Park location
- County Parks: Some Milwaukee County Parks offer seasonal rentals
Rental includes basic safety gear (PFD, paddle). Reservations recommended, especially summer weekends.
Guided Tours
Excellent option for first-time paddlers or those wanting to learn about Milwaukee’s rivers, history, and ecology. Local outfitters and Milwaukee Riverkeeper offer various guided experiences including introductory paddles, historical tours, ecological education tours, sunset paddles, and group adventures.
Safety & Hazards
Check Conditions Before You Paddle
- Water Levels: Check current conditions at mkeurbanwatertrail.org. High water increases hazards.
- Weather Forecast: Check detailed forecast including wind, precipitation, and temperature
- Water Temperature: Know before you go. Cold water (below 60°F) poses hypothermia risk even in summer air temperatures.
- Port of Milwaukee: Call (414) 286-3610 for general water conditions in harbor areas
- Trail Alerts: Check online map for current hazards, closures, or safety concerns
Required Portages & Dams
Multiple locations require portaging around dangerous hazards:
Mandatory Portages on Milwaukee River:
- Kletzsch Park Falls: Exit water well upstream, follow portage trail. Excellent fishing below falls but DO NOT attempt to paddle over or near falls.
- Estabrook Dam (downstream): Portage around dam structure. Take out well before dam.
Cedar Creek Portages:
- Bridge Street Dam (Grafton)
- Thiensville Dam
- Four additional dams along Cedar Creek
Why Dams Are Deadly: Low-head dams create hydraulic rollers (recirculating current) that trap boats and people underwater. These “drowning machines” repeatedly pull victims under. The surface may appear calm while deadly currents swirl below. ALWAYS exit water and portage. Never attempt to paddle over, under, or near any dam or waterfall structure from either direction.
Major Hazards
High Water Conditions:
- Increased current speed and power
- Low-clearance bridges become hazards
- Strainers (submerged trees) harder to see and avoid
- Debris in water
- Avoid paddling during or immediately after heavy rain
Cold Water Immersion:
- Water below 60°F poses serious hypothermia risk
- Spring and fall water temperatures remain cold even when air is warm
- Wear appropriate insulation (wetsuit/drysuit) for cold water
- Know symptoms of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination
- If you capsize in cold water, get out and warm up immediately
Weather Hazards:
- Thunderstorms: Lightning extremely dangerous on water. Get off water immediately if storms approach.
- High Winds: Can create waves and make paddling difficult, especially on Lake Michigan. Wind stronger on open water.
- Fog: Reduces visibility, especially dangerous near motorboat traffic
- Heat: Summer heat exhaustion possible. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection
Motorized Boat Traffic:
- Harbor areas and lower Milwaukee River see motor boat traffic
- Stay visible with bright clothing and reflective gear
- Understand navigation rules: generally stay to right side
- Motor boats have limited maneuverability; give them space
- Be especially careful near Riverfront Boat Launch and marina areas
- Weekend traffic heavier than weekdays
Underwater Hazards:
- Submerged trees, logs, branches (strainers)
- Shopping carts, bikes, and urban debris
- Concrete and metal from historical structures
- Visibility poor in murky urban water
- Channelized sections may have concrete edges
Safety Best Practices
- Always Wear Your PFD: Not negotiable. Wear it properly fastened.
- Know Your Ability: Paddle within your skill level. Urban water trail generally easy but conditions vary.
- Never Paddle Alone: Use buddy system. If solo paddling, tell someone your plan.
- File a Float Plan: Tell someone your route, expected return time, what to do if you don’t return.
- Stay Alert: Watch for hazards, other boats, changing conditions
- Keep Right: General river navigation rule
- Learn Self-Rescue: Know how to re-enter kayak/canoe from water
- Carry Communication: Waterproof phone case. Know how to call for help: 911
- Stay Sober: Never paddle under influence of alcohol or drugs
- Respect Your Limits: Turn back if conditions exceed your abilities
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency: 911
- Milwaukee County Parks: (414) 257-PARK (7275)
- Port of Milwaukee (water conditions): (414) 286-3610
- Milwaukee Riverkeeper (trail issues): Report via website or social media
- U.S. Coast Guard (Lake Michigan): Marine VHF Channel 16 or (414) 747-7182
- Wisconsin DNR (fish/wildlife issues): (888) 936-7463
Water Quality
Milwaukee’s rivers have dramatically improved water quality over recent decades through sewerage improvements, pollution control, and restoration efforts. However, urban waterways still carry concerns:
- Avoid paddling for 24-48 hours after heavy rain (storm runoff can temporarily reduce water quality)
- Don’t drink the water without purification
- Wash hands after paddling
- Keep water out of mouth if possible
- Rinse gear after use
- Check Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) alerts for overflow events
- Report obvious pollution or debris to Milwaukee Riverkeeper
The improved water quality now supports 30+ fish species and thriving wildlife populations—a testament to successful restoration efforts.
Wildlife & Natural Features
One of the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail’s greatest surprises is the abundant wildlife thriving in these urban and interurban waterways. Decades of restoration work have created robust ecosystems supporting diverse species.
Birds
The water trail offers exceptional urban birdwatching:
- Common Sightings: Belted kingfishers, great blue herons, great egrets, mallard ducks, Canada geese, cormorants, various gull species
- Raptors: Osprey increasingly common, bald eagles occasionally spotted, red-tailed hawks along wooded sections
- Migratory Birds: Spring and fall migrations bring diverse waterfowl and shorebirds
- Songbirds: Wooded riparian areas support warblers, vireos, orioles, and other songbirds
- Best Viewing: Early morning and evening, quiet paddling, spring and fall migrations, Menomonee River canals for solitude
Fish & Aquatic Life
Dramatic water quality improvements have allowed over 30 fish species to return to the Milwaukee River system:
- Native Species Reintroduction: Wisconsin DNR actively reintroduces lake sturgeon, walleye, and other native fish
- Sport Fish: Excellent fishing below Kletzsch Park Falls and Estabrook Falls, along Burnham Canal on Menomonee River
- Common Species: Northern pike, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, perch, catfish, carp
- Seasonal Runs: Some species migrate between Lake Michigan and rivers
- Fishing Regulations: Wisconsin fishing license required. Check current regulations and size/bag limits.
Mammals
Various mammals inhabit the riparian corridors:
- Common: White-tailed deer (especially early morning/evening), raccoons, mink, muskrats, squirrels, opossums
- Occasionally Seen: Coyotes, red fox, beavers (dam-building activity visible in some areas)
- Viewing Tips: Watch shorelines quietly, early morning best time, look for tracks in mud, observe from respectful distance
Reptiles & Amphibians
- Various frog species (spring choruses along quieter sections)
- Painted turtles common basking on logs
- Snapping turtles present
- Various snake species in vegetated areas (all harmless in Wisconsin)
- Salamanders in wooded riparian zones
Vegetation & Trees
Riparian forest restoration has improved habitat quality:
- Native tree species: cottonwoods, sycamores, willows, oaks, maples
- Wetland vegetation in slower sections
- Invasive species management ongoing (watch for removal projects)
- Spring wildflowers along forested banks
- Fall colors spectacular in parkland sections
Wildlife Viewing Ethics
- Observe wildlife from distance; never approach or chase
- Never feed wildlife (illegal and harmful)
- Give nesting birds extra space, especially spring/early summer
- Keep noise minimal to avoid disturbing animals
- Stay in watercraft; don’t land on sensitive shorelines
- Report injured wildlife to Wisconsin DNR
- Take photos but leave no trace of your visit
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! The water trail is generally easy to moderate difficulty, making it accessible for beginner paddlers. Most sections feature flat water with gentle current. However, beginners should start on calm days, avoid high water conditions, always wear PFD, know how to identify required portages, and consider guided tours or paddling with experienced friends for first outings. The urban setting means help is relatively nearby compared to wilderness paddling.
The water trail itself is FREE! No permits required for recreational paddling. One launch site (Riverfront Boat Launch at South Water & Bruce) charges a launch fee. Wisconsin State Park admission applies if launching from state parks. Otherwise, enjoy free access to this fantastic urban resource. Free trail maps available (suggested $5 donation to support trail maintenance).
Several mandatory portages exist for safety: Kletzsch Park Falls (Milwaukee River), Estabrook Dam downstream (Milwaukee River), Bridge Street Dam (Grafton), Thiensville Dam, and four dams on Cedar Creek. The water trail map clearly marks all portages. Signage at access points indicates portage locations. NEVER attempt to paddle over or near any dam or falls—these are deadly hazards. Exit water well before the structure and follow marked portage routes.
Paddling season is April through October during ice-free months. Spring (April-May) offers higher water, fewer crowds, excellent wildlife viewing, but colder water temperatures requiring appropriate clothing. Summer (June-August) provides peak conditions with warm water, longer days, and most services open, though more crowded. Fall (September-October) features beautiful colors, comfortable temperatures, and fewer people. Winter paddling is not recommended due to ice formation and extreme cold water temperatures posing severe hypothermia risk.
Multiple options exist: Brew City Kayak offers kayak and SUP rentals plus guided tours. Milwaukee Kayak Company provides downtown rentals. Milwaukee Duffy Boat rents electric boats (zero-emission). Urban Ecology Center at Washington Park rents canoes. Some Milwaukee County Parks offer seasonal rentals. Reservations recommended, especially summer weekends. Rentals include basic safety equipment (PFD, paddle).
Water quality has dramatically improved over recent decades through infrastructure upgrades and restoration efforts. Over 30 fish species now thrive in these waters. However, as urban waterways, some precautions apply: avoid paddling for 24-48 hours after heavy rain when runoff temporarily degrades quality, don’t drink untreated water, wash hands after paddling, and check Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) alerts for overflow events. The presence of diverse wildlife indicates successful restoration.
Absolutely—this is a highlight! The water trail was designed to connect paddlers with Milwaukee’s vibrant RiverWalk District, Historic Third Ward, and other riverside destinations. Many breweries, restaurants, and entertainment venues offer dockage or nearby access. Popular paddling routes include downtown brewery tours, lunch stops at riverside restaurants, and evening paddles with dinner in the Third Ward. Remember: paddle sober, save the beer tastings until you’re safely off the water and have secured your watercraft!
Stay calm and follow these steps: Stay with your boat (provides flotation), if in cold water, get out quickly to prevent hypothermia, attempt self-rescue if trained (re-enter kayak/canoe), swim to nearest safe shoreline if needed (always wear your PFD!), signal other boaters for assistance, and once safe, assess if you can continue or need to exit. If water is cold or you’re in distress, prioritize getting warm and dry. Call 911 for emergencies. This is why paddling with others is safer—mutual assistance available.
Generally yes in your own watercraft, but check specific regulations. Dogs must have PFDs (canine life jackets available at outdoor retailers). Considerations: not all dogs enjoy paddling, heat stress risk in summer, difficult in small kayaks (better in canoes), and bathroom needs require planning. Make sure your dog is comfortable with water and won’t jump out unexpectedly. Keep dogs under control around wildlife. Some rental companies don’t allow dogs in rental equipment.
Multiple ways to access maps: Download free digital version at milwaukeeriverkeeper.org or mkeurbanwatertrail.org. Interactive online map available with filters for access points, amenities, alerts, and attractions. Request free physical map from Milwaukee Riverkeeper (suggested $5 donation supports trail maintenance). Maps available at some launch points and outfitters. The map includes access points, portages, hazards, amenities, and points of interest.
Essential Resources & Contacts
Official Organizations
Milwaukee Riverkeeper
Primary organization managing the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail. Maps, conditions, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs.
Visit Website →Milwaukee Urban Water Trail Official Site
Interactive trail map, access point information, river conditions, and trip planning resources.
Explore Map →Milwaukee County Parks
Manages access points throughout Milwaukee County. Trail information, park amenities, and regulations.
County Parks Info →Ozaukee County Planning & Parks
Information on Cedar Creek and northern portions of water trail, Lake Michigan access in Ozaukee County.
Ozaukee County →Wisconsin DNR
State regulations, fishing licenses, water quality information, and native species reintroduction programs.
DNR Website →American Trails
National organization featuring Milwaukee Urban Water Trail as model urban water trail project.
American Trails →Outfitters & Rentals
Brew City Kayak
Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, guided tours of the water trail, group outings.
Milwaukee Kayak Company
Downtown rentals and tours, conveniently located near Historic Third Ward and RiverWalk District.
More Info →Milwaukee Duffy Boat
Electric boat rentals (zero-emission, quiet, family-friendly) for environmentally conscious river exploration.
Urban Ecology Center
Canoe rentals at Washington Park location, environmental education programs, community engagement.
Planning Tools
Interactive Trail Map
Filter access points by amenities, view current alerts, identify portages, plan routes with detailed information.
View Map →Weather Resources
National Weather Service Milwaukee forecast, wind conditions for Lake Michigan, severe weather alerts.
NWS Milwaukee →Port of Milwaukee
Call (414) 286-3610 for general water conditions in harbor areas and lower Milwaukee River.
Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District
Water quality alerts, overflow notifications, watershed protection information.
MMSD Website →Community & Social
Connect with other paddlers and stay updated:
- Facebook: Search for Milwaukee Urban Water Trail groups and Milwaukee Riverkeeper page
- Instagram: Follow @MilwaukeeRiverkeeper and search #MilwaukeeUrbanWaterTrail for photos and trip reports
- Events: Milwaukee Riverkeeper hosts guided paddles, river cleanups, and educational events throughout the season
- Volunteer: Join river stewardship activities, access point maintenance, water quality monitoring
Connected Trails
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail connects to extensive land-based trail systems:
- Oak Leaf Trail: 135+ miles of paved multi-use trails looping Milwaukee County, excellent for bike-shuttle combinations
- Beer Line Trail: Urban trail providing hiking and biking, connects to water trail access points
- Hank Aaron State Trail: 14-mile paved trail from Lake Michigan to Milwaukee/Waukesha county line, connects at Harley-Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee River Greenway: 878 acres of trails and greenspace along Milwaukee River
- Lake Michigan Water Trail: Connections to broader Lake Michigan paddling routes
Ready to Explore Milwaukee from the Water?
The Milwaukee Urban Water Trail offers a unique perspective on the city, connecting you with restored waterways, abundant wildlife, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods—all accessible right in your backyard.
- Download the free interactive map
- Check current water conditions
- Choose appropriate gear and safety equipment
- Plan your route and identify portages
- Tell someone your float plan
- Respect Leave No Trace principles
- Enjoy discovering Milwaukee’s three rivers!
Whether you’re seeking peaceful wildlife viewing, urban exploration, brewery hopping by boat, or simply a new way to experience Milwaukee, the Urban Water Trail welcomes paddlers of all skill levels. Discover the rivers that flow through your city!
How We Verify Trail Information
This guide is compiled from authoritative sources to ensure accuracy. We verify all facts from multiple official sources and update information as conditions change.
View Source Documentation
Official Sources:
- Milwaukee Riverkeeper: Milwaukee Urban Water Trail Official Page – Primary managing organization
- Milwaukee Urban Water Trail: Official Interactive Map & Information
- Milwaukee County Parks: Urban River Trails Information
- Ozaukee County: Urban Water Trail Resources
- American Trails: Milwaukee Urban Water Trail Profile – National Recreation Trail documentation
- City of Milwaukee: Water Current Walking Tour – Municipal water trail information
- A Wealth of Nature: Water Trail Overview – Conservation organization resource
- Travel Wisconsin: State Tourism Information
Additional References:
- Wisconsin DNR: Water quality, fishing regulations, wildlife information
- National Park Service: Rivers & Trails Program partnership
- American Canoe Association: Recommended Trail designation (2006)
- Milwaukee Kayak Company: Launch Site Information
Last Updated: Information verified October 2025. Trail conditions, access points, and regulations may change. Always check current conditions with Milwaukee Riverkeeper before your trip.