Tubing & AdventuresPaddling

You’ve seen them sliding down a hill in the winter. Now see them in the summer! We’re speaking of inner tubes, and they’re an essential part of floating down the river. But that’s the mild side of fun; wild is when you hit the whitewater.

In Vilas County, Hawks Nest Outfitters will rent you a tube, kayak or raft. They will also take you to the launch point on the Wisconsin River and pick you up at the takeout.

A paddle on the scenic Namekagon River can be found at Jack’s Canoe & Tube Rental in Trego. In addition to rentals, including kayaks, they provide full shuttle service to all of the Namekagon and most of the St. Croix River landings. Jack’s offers delivery and pickup service to most local lakes.

Step it up a notch by riding the whitewater roller-coaster, including the rapids on the Peshtigo and Menominee rivers in Marinette County. Among outfitters offering a canoe, raft or kayak ride are Kosir’s Rapid Rafts, Thornton’s Rafting Resort and Campground, and Wildman Adventure Resort. Another suggestion is Wausau Whitewater Park in Wausau where a dam provides a constant flow of water regardless of weather. You and a team of 20 friends and family can also take part in the annual Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival races set for Saturday, August 19.

Down, Down Down We Go

Lastly, we take you underground to experience what it’s like to be in a once-working mine shaft.

At Adventure Mine near Greenland in the U.P. you can experience copper mining as it was in the 1800s. You will traverse underground wearing a hardhat with headlamp. Four guided tours are offered: a 45-minute underground walk, an 80-minute underground hike, a three-hour underground tour that includes rappelling down an 80- foot shaft, and a six-hour long excursion to the second level of the mine. See large stopes and inplace copper specimens, as well as other features and mining remnants.