Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail

About the Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail winds through the pristine backwaters and mature floodplain forests of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, offering paddlers an intimate wilderness experience just steps from Highway 25. This marked water trail features two distinct loops that explore the extensive delta floodplain forest at the confluence of the Chippewa and Mississippi Rivers, providing access to one of the most ecologically significant wetland areas in the upper Midwest.

Developed as an Eagle Scout project in the summer of 2010, this trail has become the first in a series of four canoe trails in the Winona District of the refuge, providing structured access to areas that might otherwise be challenging to navigate. The trail’s significance extends beyond recreation—this section of the Mississippi River was designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2010, recognizing its critical role in supporting migratory birds, fish, and diverse wildlife populations.

Difficulty Level

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail is rated moderate to difficult depending on water levels and the route chosen. The shorter loop offers a more manageable introduction to backwater paddling, while the longer loop that ventures into the Nelson-Trevino Research Area presents genuine wilderness navigation challenges. Paddlers should be prepared for flowing water, numerous strainers (fallen trees blocking the channel), and the need to turn quickly and paddle hard in some sections.

During moderate to high water conditions, the trail becomes significantly more challenging, requiring strong paddling skills and quick maneuvering. The route features silver maple floodplain forest with narrow channels that demand attention and control. Unlike calm lake paddling, portions of this trail move with the current, adding both beauty and technical challenge to the experience.

Trail Designations & Recognition

The Nelson-Trevino area holds an impressive array of conservation designations that reflect its exceptional ecological value. The trail itself was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2012, while the broader wetland area received Ramsar Wetland of International Importance status in 2010—one of only a handful of such sites in the United States.

The Nelson-Trevino Bottoms Research Area encompasses multiple overlapping protected designations including Wisconsin State Natural Area and Scientific Area (designated 1970), U.S. Forest Service Federal Research Area, National Park Service National Natural Landmark, and full inclusion within the National Wildlife Refuge System. This layered protection ensures the area remains a living laboratory for understanding floodplain ecology while providing outstanding wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.

Seasonal Conditions

The trail is accessible during ice-out conditions, typically from April through October or early November, depending on weather patterns. Each season offers distinct experiences and challenges for paddlers.

Spring (April-May): High water levels from snowmelt create faster currents and more challenging paddling conditions. Some channels may be more open, but strainers are most dangerous during this period. Spring migration brings exceptional bird-watching opportunities with waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors. Water clarity improves as spring runoff subsides. Temperatures range from 50-70°F, with occasional cool, rainy days.

Summer (June-August): Lower, more stable water levels generally make navigation easier, though some shallow areas may require caution. Backwaters can become crystal clear by mid-summer, offering excellent underwater viewing. Mosquitoes can be intense in June and July. Bald eagles are active, and fishing is excellent. Temperatures range from 70-85°F with occasional hot, humid days exceeding 90°F.

Fall (September-October): Outstanding fall colors in the floodplain forest create spectacular paddling conditions. Waterfowl migration peaks with thousands of ducks and geese using the backwaters. Tundra swans arrive in late October. Cooler temperatures (50-70°F) make for comfortable paddling. Important: Hunting season is active during fall—wear bright colors and exercise extra caution.

Trail Season: The trail is free and open 24/7 during ice-out conditions. Ice-up typically occurs in December or January, closing the trail until spring thaw.

Route Guide & Trail Options

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail offers paddlers two distinct loop options, both beginning and ending at access points along Highway 25. The marked trail follows the backwaters and channels of the Upper Mississippi River, staying primarily away from the main navigation channel.

Access Points

Primary access is via boat landings along Highway 25 between Nelson, Wisconsin, and Wabasha, Minnesota. There are multiple access points to choose from:

Nelson/Trevino Landing: Located on the north side of Highway 25, this is a primary access point for the trail. Coordinates approximately 44.410697°N, -92.01471°W (first landing 0.6 miles south of Nelson).

Pontoon Slough Landing: Located on the south side of Highway 25, offering an alternative put-in point.

Additional boat landings are available along Highway 25 before reaching the Minnesota state line, providing flexibility for different trip configurations.

Short Loop

The shorter loop provides an excellent introduction to backwater paddling, typically taking 2-3 hours to complete. This route stays in the more accessible portions of the backwater system, offering beautiful floodplain forest scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a taste of the Nelson-Trevino experience without venturing into the more challenging research area. This loop is suitable for paddlers with basic to intermediate skills.

Long Loop (Extended Route)

The longer loop extends approximately 4.5-4.8 miles and takes paddlers under Highway 25 into the heart of the Nelson-Trevino Research Area. This route typically requires 3-4 hours and rewards adventurous paddlers with immersion in the 3,700-acre wilderness area—a spectacular maze of channels and old-growth floodplain forest.

This extended route features silver maple, river birch, American elm, and cottonwood-dominated forests with additional species including swamp white oak, bur oak, willow, and green and white ashes. The narrow, winding channels create an intimate paddling experience through a landscape largely unchanged for centuries. Paddlers venturing into the research area should carry a GPS unit and map, as the maze of channels can be disorienting.

Trail Markings & Navigation

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail is an official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service marked trail with signage along the route. Signs guide paddlers through the backwater system, though they’re primarily oriented for those paddling the standard direction. Paddlers should still carry maps and ideally a GPS device, especially if exploring beyond the main marked route or venturing into the Nelson-Trevino Research Area.

The trail does not follow the main navigation channel of the Mississippi River. Paddlers wishing to connect to the Finger Lakes Canoe Trail (approximately 8 miles downriver) will need to paddle the main channel and lock through Lock and Dam #4. Those unfamiliar with locking procedures should download the “Locking Through” booklet available from the refuge website.

Current & Flow Characteristics

Unlike many backwater paddling routes, portions of the Nelson-Trevino Trail contain flowing water with noticeable current. One popular route variation (via Back 9 Landing) allows paddlers to go with the current for the entire trip, creating a more relaxed downstream experience. However, on rare occasions during high Mississippi River levels, the current can flow backward from the Mississippi into the backwater channels.

The flowing nature of this trail adds both beauty and challenge. Paddlers should be prepared to paddle hard when needed and turn quickly to avoid strainers and navigate narrow channels. At moderate to high water, the current significantly increases difficulty and requires strong paddling skills.

Alternative Route Options

Back 9 to Nelson/Trevino Landing: This approximately 5.1-mile route is described by local paddling guides as “jaw-dropping and gorgeous—unlike anything else in the Midwest.” Starting at Back 9 Landing and paddling with the current through silver maple forest dotted with bald eagles and cardinal flowers, this route avoids most main channel paddling. Difficulty rated as difficult due to numerous strainers and current challenges.

Connecting to Other Trails

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail is the first (upstream-most) in a series of four marked canoe trails in the Winona District:

• Chippewa River Water Trail: ~6.8 miles near Pepin, Wisconsin
• Nelson-Trevino Trail: ~4.5-4.8 miles near Wabasha (this trail)
• Finger Lakes Trail: ~6.1 miles near Kellogg
• Halfmoon Trail: ~5.1 miles near Kellogg

Multi-day paddling adventures are possible by combining these trails, though main channel navigation and locking through dams is required between some sections.

Planning Your Paddle

Can You Paddle It Solo?

Solo paddling is absolutely permitted and common on the Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail. However, solo paddlers should exercise extra caution due to the flowing water, strainers, and remoteness of portions of the trail. The refuge strongly recommends the principle that “there is safety in numbers,” especially for those venturing into the Nelson-Trevino Research Area beyond the main marked trail.

Solo paddlers should inform someone of their plans, carry communication devices, have solid paddling skills for maneuvering around obstacles, and be comfortable with self-rescue if capsizing occurs. The trail sees regular use during peak season, so you’re unlikely to be completely alone for extended periods on the main loops.

Permits and Fees

Directions to Trailhead

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail is conveniently located along Highway 25, which connects Nelson, Wisconsin, and Wabasha, Minnesota, crossing the Mississippi River. Access is straightforward from either state.

From Wabasha, Minnesota: From downtown Wabasha, take Highway 25 east toward Nelson, Wisconsin. Multiple boat landings are located along Highway 25—the Pontoon Slough Landing is on the south side of the highway, and Nelson/Trevino Landing is on the north side. The first landing is approximately 0.6 miles south of the Highway 25/35 junction in Nelson.

From Nelson, Wisconsin: From the junction of Highway 35 and Highway 25 in Nelson, head west on Highway 25 toward Wabasha. Boat landings begin approximately 0.6 miles from the junction, with additional access points continuing along the highway.

GPS Coordinates: First boat landing approximately 44.410697°N, -92.01471°W

Regional Access: The area is approximately 70 miles southeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul via Highway 61 south through Red Wing to Wabasha. From La Crosse, Wisconsin, the area is approximately 63 miles northwest via Highway 35 along the Great River Road.

Nearby Services & Amenities

Services are available in both Wabasha, Minnesota, and Nelson, Wisconsin, though Wabasha offers more extensive amenities.

Wabasha, Minnesota: Full-service town with population of approximately 2,500. Available services include restaurants, grocery stores, lodging (including the historic Anderson House), gas stations, and the renowned National Eagle Center located on the riverfront. The National Eagle Center features live eagles and educational exhibits—paddlers can pull up to the docks directly in front of the center.

Nelson, Wisconsin: Charming village of approximately 400 residents on the Great River Road. Limited services including Nelson Cheese Factory, restaurants, and small shops. Beautiful location at the confluence of the Mississippi and Chippewa River valleys.

Alma, Wisconsin: Located downriver at River Mile 753, Alma offers additional restaurants, shopping, and camping for paddlers continuing to the Finger Lakes Canoe Trail or exploring multiple days.

Best Time to Paddle

Camping Options

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge offers excellent camping opportunities for multi-day paddling adventures.

River Island & Beach Camping: Free primitive camping is available on sandy beaches and islands along this section of the river on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or fees. Campers must follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 200 feet from water sources where possible, and properly dispose of all waste. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods—check current regulations.

Nearby Campgrounds: For those preferring developed camping, Goose Island County Park and other public campgrounds are located in the region. These typically offer amenities like restrooms, showers, and established campsites for a fee.

Shuttle Services & Logistics

For point-to-point paddling or assistance with logistics, local outfitters provide services:

Broken Paddle Guiding Co.: Offers shuttle services, guided trips, and up-to-date information on water conditions, current speeds, strainer locations, and route recommendations. Shuttle costs are reasonable and can significantly enhance the paddling experience by allowing one-way trips with the current.

Self-shuttling is possible with two vehicles, as access points are well-marked along Highway 25. Shuttle distance between access points is typically 10 minutes or less by car.

Gear & Preparation

Essential Paddling Gear

Watercraft:

• Canoe or kayak suitable for river paddling with maneuvering capability
• Stable designs recommended due to strainers and need for quick turns
• Sit-on-top kayaks not ideal due to potential for capsizing in current
• Stand-up paddleboards permitted but not recommended for this trail due to strainers and current

Safety Equipment (Required & Recommended):

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Required for all paddlers. Must be worn at all times—not just aboard the vessel. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, or III.
• Whistle: Attached to PFD for emergency signaling
• Paddle (plus spare): Quality paddle appropriate for river conditions; spare recommended for longer trips
• Dry bags: Waterproof storage for gear, electronics, and personal items
• First aid kit: Waterproofed and accessible
• Throw rope: For rescue situations, especially when paddling with others
• Bilge pump or bailer: For removing water from craft

Navigation & Communication:

• Map: Trail map from U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service or local outfitters
• Compass: Backup navigation in the maze of channels
• GPS device or smartphone with GPS app: Strongly recommended for exploring Nelson-Trevino Research Area
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag for electronics
• Communication device: Cell coverage is limited but available in some areas; satellite communication device recommended for safety

Clothing & Sun Protection:

• Quick-dry clothing (avoid cotton)
• Sun hat with brim or visor
• Sunglasses with retention strap
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+ water-resistant)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Rain jacket and rain pants (weather can change quickly)
• Extra layers for cool mornings/evenings
• Bright orange or pink clothing during fall hunting season (REQUIRED)
• Wetsuit or drysuit for early spring/late fall cold water paddling

Food & Water:

• Drinking water (1-2 liters minimum per person)
• Snacks and lunch for longer trips
• Water filter or purification tablets if planning extended trips
• Insulated bottle to keep water cool on hot days

Additional Recommended Items:

• Bug repellent (essential June-July)
• Head net for mosquito protection
• Binoculars for bird and wildlife watching
• Camera in waterproof housing
• Fishing gear and valid license (optional)
• Field guides for birds and plants
• Small repair kit (duct tape, cordage)
• Knife or multi-tool
• Lightweight anchor for fishing or resting

Overnight Camping Additions:

• Tent or tarp shelter
• Sleeping bag and pad
• Camp stove and cookware
• Food storage (proper wildlife protection)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Trowel for waste disposal (catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200+ feet from water)
• Trash bags (pack out ALL waste)

Skills & Experience Required

Recommended Training

If you’re new to river paddling or preparing for the Nelson-Trevino Trail:

• Take a river paddling skills course from a certified instructor
• Practice strokes for turning, bracing, and maneuvering in current
• Learn and practice self-rescue techniques
• Paddle easier moving water before attempting challenging conditions
• Understand how to read water and identify hazards
• Practice navigation with map and compass or GPS

Safety & Hazards

Current Trail Conditions

Major Hazards

Emergency Procedures

Leave No Trace & Conservation Guidelines

The Nelson-Trevino area is a protected research area and National Wildlife Refuge. Paddlers must follow Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, check conditions, be prepared for emergencies
2. Travel on Durable Surfaces: Stay in waterways, camp on established beaches/islands, avoid damaging vegetation when landing
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out ALL trash and litter. Human waste: catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200+ feet from water. Pack out toilet paper.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not disturb plants, animals, or natural features. Collecting plants, rocks, or artifacts is prohibited without permit.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use established fire rings if present. Keep fires small. Burn completely to ash. Scatter cool ashes. Dead wood on ground may be used. Check for fire restrictions.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, never feed wildlife, store food properly, do not disturb nesting birds
7. Be Considerate: Keep noise down, respect other paddlers and refuge users, yield appropriately, control pets (dogs must be leashed)

Additional Refuge Regulations

• Glass food and beverage containers prohibited on refuge lands (vessels exempt)
• Dogs must be under control at all times and on leash in posted areas
• Cutting or damaging live vegetation prohibited without permit
• Harvesting aquatic plants prohibited
• Collecting plant/animal specimens, natural objects, rocks, stones, or minerals prohibited without permit
• Vehicles prohibited except on designated routes
• Special regulations apply to closed/restricted areas (marked with orange-topped signs)
• Some areas closed October through end of waterfowl season to protect migrating birds

Wildlife & Natural Features

Bird Watching Paradise

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail offers exceptional bird-watching opportunities year-round, with the Upper Mississippi River serving as a critical corridor within the Mississippi Flyway. More than 290 species of birds migrate through the refuge annually, and approximately 40% of the nation’s waterfowl use the Mississippi River as a travel corridor during fall migration.

Bald Eagles: The crown jewel of bird life on the trail. Bald eagles are numerous throughout the year, with both resident nesting pairs and migrating individuals. Winter brings spectacular concentrations of eagles to the area. The nearby National Eagle Center in Wabasha celebrates this magnificent raptor. Paddlers regularly observe eagles perched on dead snags, soaring overhead, or fishing along the channels.

Waterfowl: Tremendous diversity and abundance, especially during migration periods. Spring brings northbound ducks including wood ducks, blue-winged teal, mallards, pintails, and more. Fall migration (October-November) features massive rafts of canvasback ducks, ring-necked ducks, lesser scaup, and other diving ducks. Tundra swans gather in remarkable numbers in late October through mid-November, particularly near Big Lake and other large backwater areas—a truly spectacular sight with thousands of these elegant white birds.

Wading Birds: Great blue herons are common and conspicuous, often standing motionless in shallow water awaiting fish. These magnificent birds will flush ahead of paddlers with their prehistoric-sounding croaks. Green herons, great egrets (less common), and other wading species also present.

Songbirds: The floodplain forest supports exceptional songbird diversity. Paddlers may encounter yellow-throated vireos, blue-gray gnatcatchers, Baltimore orioles, warblers during migration, red-winged blackbirds, and many other species. The silver maple forest rings with bird song, especially during spring and early summer.

Woodpeckers: Pileated woodpeckers—the largest woodpecker in North America—inhabit the old-growth floodplain forest. Their loud, echoing calls and distinctive rectangular excavations mark their presence. Red-bellied woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, and other species are also common.

Raptors: Beyond bald eagles, the area hosts broad-winged hawks, red-tailed hawks, osprey (especially during migration), northern harriers over marshes, and occasionally other raptors including peregrine falcons.

Kingfishers: Belted kingfishers are frequently seen and heard along the waterways, diving for small fish with remarkable precision.

Fish & Aquatic Life

The backwaters and channels of the Nelson-Trevino area provide outstanding fishing opportunities and serve as critical nursery habitat for Mississippi River fish populations.

Game Fish: Northern pike (including true “monsters”), walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, white bass, crappie (both black and white), bluegill, and channel catfish. The clear backwaters during summer allow visual observation of fish, sometimes in startling clarity according to refuge biologists who note that “once flooding’s over, once sediments have dropped—the backwaters can be crystal clear and beautiful as the Boundary Waters.”

Rough Fish: Common carp, freshwater drum, gar, bowfin, and other species play important ecological roles.

Mussels: The Mississippi River in this area supports diverse freshwater mussel populations. DNR mussel biologists conduct research in nearby sections, studying these often-overlooked invertebrates that filter water and provide critical ecosystem functions.

Fishing License Required: Valid Wisconsin or Minnesota fishing license required depending on where you’re fishing (state boundary follows the main channel).

Mammals & Other Wildlife

Furbearers: River otters and mink are present in the Nelson-Trevino Bottoms, though they’re often elusive. Sharp-eyed paddlers may spot otters playing or hunting. Muskrats are common and more easily observed, especially near their lodges in marshy areas.

White-tailed Deer: Common in the floodplain forest, often seen during dawn and dusk paddling.

Other Mammals: Raccoons, beavers (look for lodges and chewed trees), gray squirrels, fox squirrels, and other small mammals inhabit the area.

Reptiles & Amphibians: Various snake species including water snakes (non-venomous), garter snakes, and others. Turtles sun on logs. Frogs and toads provide evening chorus in spring and summer.

Forest & Plant Communities

The Nelson-Trevino Bottoms represents the largest delta floodplain forest in the upper Midwest—an extensive, undisturbed wilderness of global ecological significance.

Dominant Trees: Silver maple, river birch, American elm, and cottonwood dominate the wooded areas. Additional canopy species include swamp white oak, bur oak, various willow species, and green and white ashes. This old-growth forest character creates cathedral-like paddling experiences through narrow channels overhung with massive trees.

Understory & Flowers: Red osier dogwood occurs in scattered patches. Cardinal flower’s brilliant red blooms decorate the water’s edge in summer, creating dramatic color against the green forest. Numerous wildflowers bloom throughout the season.

Aquatic Plants: Diverse aquatic plant communities support the rich food web. Harvesting aquatic plants is prohibited to protect this critical habitat.

Seasonal Wildlife Highlights

Spring (April-May): Peak songbird migration, waterfowl nesting activity begins, eagles on nests, frogs calling, early wildflowers blooming.

Summer (June-August): Nesting birds active, young eagles learning to fly, cardinal flowers blooming, clear water allowing fish observation, dragonflies and butterflies abundant.

Fall (September-November): Spectacular waterfowl migration peaking in October-November, tundra swans arriving late October, fall colors brilliant, eagles concentrating as waterfowl arrive, preparations for winter evident.

Observation Ethics: Maintain respectful distance from all wildlife. Never approach nests, dens, or wildlife raising young. Use binoculars and telephoto lenses for close viewing. Do not feed wildlife or leave food accessible. Paddle quietly to avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during sensitive nesting periods.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Resources

Managing Agencies & Information

Local Services & Outfitters

Planning Tools & Weather

Additional Reading & Information

How We Verify Trail Information

Ready to Explore the Backwaters?

The Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the hidden wilderness of the Mississippi River—old-growth floodplain forests, spectacular wildlife, and the peaceful beauty of backwater channels that few visitors ever see.

For those who embrace the adventure with proper preparation, the Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail provides unforgettable experiences: gliding through cathedral-like silver maple forests, watching bald eagles soar overhead, discovering crystal-clear backwaters teeming with fish, witnessing thousands of migrating waterfowl, and connecting with one of the Midwest’s most significant wetland ecosystems. This is river paddling at its finest—challenging enough to be rewarding, beautiful enough to be transformative, and free to all who respect its wild character.