Advertisement
Relax and let the current guide you.This river kayak adventure is self-guided and beginner-friendly. We provide the kayak, gear, and a shuttle ride upstream—so all you have to do is float back down to your parked car at your own pace. No loops, no backtracking, no hassle.
These special Fall Colors departures are timed for when we expect fall colors to happen—though nature follows its own schedule, and weather patterns can shift the timing, so colors cannot be guaranteed. Either way, you’ll enjoy a beautiful autumn paddle!
It’s the perfect way to explore the outdoors without needing your own gear or experience. We primarily use stable sit-on-top kayaks (sit-ins also available), and the river is generally shallow, calm, and easy to navigate.
Section-Specific Details
This crowd favorite is part of our “Core Four” for a reason—reliable water levels, peaceful paddling, and some of the most natural scenery on the river. The first half feels almost untouched, winding through forested banks and wildlife habitat with barely a house in sight. As you approach Thiensville, you’ll pass nature preserves before the river begins to widen and slow, taking on a lake-like feel near the dam. Expect a calm, scenic float with occasional boat traffic near the end on busy weekends.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Put In: Garrison’s Glen in Mequon.
Take Out: Village Park in Thiensville.
Meeting Point/Parking: Village Park in Thiensville, plenty of parking.
River Miles: 6.5 miles
Approx. Paddle Time: 2.5-3 hours
Bathrooms: Garrison’s Glen: None. Thiensville Village Park: Flush toilets
Rapids: A few riffles possible towards the beginning in low water, but most of this section is plenty deep and calm.
What’s Included:
-Single or tandem kayak rental
-Paddle and life jacket
-Shuttle transportation upstream
-Free use of dry bag and/or floating phone case
What to Bring:
-Weather-appropriate clothing and footwear that can get wet (no flip flops)
-Towel and dry clothes for after the paddle
-Water and snacks
-Sunscreen and insect repellent
-Hat and sunglasses
-Waterproof bag for personal items
Pricing (+taxes/fees):
Own Boat Shuttle Service: $25 per person
Single Kayak Rental with shuttle: $55 per person
Tandem Kayak Rental with shuttle: $95 for two people
Meeting Location: Thiensville Village Park
Day-Of Reservations:
Given the mobile nature of our operations, we load our trailer in the morning with pre-reserved boats plus a few extras. For same-day reservations, please text or call us at 414-261-3871 to ensure availability.
For more info and signup visit: https://forwardoutdoor.com/event/fall-colors-river-kayaking-thiensville/
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Thiensville Village Park, 299 Elm St,Thiensville, Wisconsin, United States
Tickets
