Map 1: Kettle River to Sandstone
The Kettle River offers a scenic experience as it threads through dense forest, rocky cliffs and bluffs. It is also one of the best whitewater rivers in the Midwest. Its clear waters, tinted amber by area swamps, fall an average of 6.1 feet per mile.
The river depends on runoff for most of its flow, and responds dramatically to rain. Be sure to check river level gauge readings before paddling. Most rapids, except in the upper reaches, are runnable if the County Road 12 bridge gauge and/or Willow River Long Lake Road gauge reads "Medium" or above. Many rapids will be scrapeable in lower water conditions.
Most of the rapids on this river are Class I during low water, with some stretches reaching II or III in high water. Rapids along Banning State Park range in difficulty from Class II-IV at all water levels. During low water, the most runnable stretch of the river for canoeists is between County Road 52, near Willow River, to Highway 23 near Sandstone.
Hazards include Class I-IV rapids and an underwater trestle. Make sure you are aware of their locations and portage options.
Recommended day trip
Musclewood to #1 trailer access
- Put-in location: Musclewood carry-in access, river mile 46.3
- Take-out location: #1 trailer access, river mile 29.8
- Length: 16.5 river miles
Enjoy a full day's paddle with small rapids along this stretch. The river winds past wooded banks, tiny islands and sandbars. Several other rivers and creeks join it along the way. Watch for Class I-II rapids between river miles 33.5 and 32.
Explore on shore
Banning State Park
Start or end your paddle from several access points within the park. At the #2 trailer access, you can enjoy a meal at a picnic table or hike miles of trails. Several watercraft campsites are also available within the park - call ahead for details.
Local contacts
Parks and Trails District Office
701 South Kenwood Avenue, Moose Lake, MN 55767
218-460-7020
Banning State Park
P.O. Box 643, Sandstone, MN 55072
320-216-3910
Nearest medical facilities
Essentia Health
705 Lundorff Drive, Sandstone, MN 55072
320-245-5600
The Kettle River.
Whitewater paddling on the river.
Map 2: Sandstone to the St. Croix River
This river depends on runoff for most of its flow and responds dramatically to rain. Be sure to check river level gauge readings before paddling.
The Kettle River offers a scenic experience as it threads through dense forest, rocky cliffs and bluffs. It is also one of the best whitewater rivers in the Midwest. Its clear waters, tinted amber by area swamps, fall an average of 6.1 feet per mile.
Except in the upper reaches, most rapids are runnable if the County Road 12 bridge gauge and/or Willow River Long Lake Road gauge reads "Medium" or above. Many rapids will be scrapeable in lower water conditions.
Most of the rapids on this river are Class I, II or III depending on water levels. The Big Spring Falls and Sandstone Rapids Area (RM 24 to 23.4) in Banning State Park range in difficulty from Class II-IV at all water levels. Portage right 0.7 miles. Dangerous undercut walls and ledges in this section of boulder bed rapids can trap debris, watercraft and swimmers. Only highly experienced whitewater paddlers who have done the required scouting should attempt this area.
Hazards include Class I-IV rapids; be aware of their locations and ratings.
Recommended day trip
#5 trailer access to #6 trailer access
- Put-in location: #5 trailer access, river mile 15.1
- Take-out location: #6 trailer access, river mile 7.9
- Length: 7.2 river miles
If you are looking for mostly flat water, this is the route for you. This slow, winding segment passes through forest with black spruce, fir, birch, aspen, maple, ash, elm and scattered red, white and jack pine. Watch for Class I rapids at river mile 11.
Explore on shore
Banning State Park
Pull onto shore at the park's southernmost boat launch and hike a short trail for views of Big Spring Falls from land.
St. Croix State Park
The Kettle River meets the St. Croix River within this large park. You'll find several launch sites and designated canoe campsites (first come, first served).
Local contacts
Parks and Trails District Office
701 South Kenwood Avenue, Moose Lake, MN 55767
218-460-7020
Banning State Park
P.O. Box 643, Sandstone, MN 55072
320-216-3910
St. Croix State Park
30065 St. Croix Park Road, Hinckley, MN 55037
320-384-6591
Nearest medical facilities
Essentia Health
705 Lundorff Drive, Sandstone, MN 55072
320-245-5600
Whitewater riffles along this river segment.
Kayaking this whitewater river segment.
