BRULE CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Float the Brule: 12.5 Miles from Stone Bridges to the Town of Brule
A daylong, largely non‑guided canoe trip that covers 12.5 miles of river — rapids, widened lakes, historic shorefronts and a shuttle finish at Highway 2 in Brule.
Float the Brule: 12.5 Miles from Stone Bridges to the Town of Brule.
The Stones Bridge to Brule run threads 12.5 miles of one of Wisconsin’s most preserved rivers, rolling past historic homes and boat houses, broad lake‑like reaches and a string of class I–II rapids that give paddlers a taste of whitewater while keeping the experience family‑friendly.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Wide water, narrow current
Sections such as Big Lake and Lucius Lake open the Brule into generous views where the river widens and wildlife is conspicuous; these quieter stretches provide room for swims and picnics on state land.
Beginner whitewater peppered along the float
More than a dozen class I and II rapids — including Hall’s Rapids, The Falls, Wildcat and Little Joe — punctuate the course, offering short, manageable bursts of excitement amid an otherwise relaxed paddle.
Preserved shorefronts and a presidential connection
The route passes well‑kept 19th‑ and 20th‑century homes and the Cedar Island estate where President Calvin Coolidge spent time in 1928, underscoring the river’s long tradition of preservation and seasonal family outings.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
This popular A2 day trip combines calm lake flats, forested shorelines and short class I–II rapids over a 12.5‑mile float; groups take the river at their own pace on a largely non‑guided run, stopping for picnics or swims before finishing at the highway #2 takeout in Brule.
THE RIVER
Wide water, narrow current
Sections such as Big Lake and Lucius Lake open the Brule into generous views where the river widens and wildlife is conspicuous; these quieter stretches provide room for swims and picnics on state land.
THE RAPIDS
Beginner whitewater peppered along the float
More than a dozen class I and II rapids — including Hall’s Rapids, The Falls, Wildcat and Little Joe — punctuate the course, offering short, manageable bursts of excitement amid an otherwise relaxed paddle.
THE HISTORY
Preserved shorefronts and a presidential connection
The route passes well‑kept 19th‑ and 20th‑century homes and the Cedar Island estate where President Calvin Coolidge spent time in 1928, underscoring the river’s long tradition of preservation and seasonal family outings.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Expect to be on the water between four and seven hours; an average group commonly takes about five to six hours for the full 12.5 miles.
The operator provides quality canoes, kayaks and equipment; you may also bring your own gear if preferred. Pack swimwear, a towel, sun protection, snacks and a dry bag for valuables.
Brule River Canoe Rental supplies canoes, kayaks and the necessary river equipment and offers a shuttle service between put‑in and takeout points.
This is a non‑guided day trip with shuttle service to the Highway 2 takeout in the Town of Brule; the operator has run shuttle service for river users since 1962.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Stones Bridge to Town of Brule trip?
The float covers 12.5 miles and typically takes between four and seven hours; an average group usually finishes in about five to six hours.
What is the difficulty level of this paddle?
The trip is rated beginner to intermediate and includes more than a dozen class I and II rapids.
Is this a guided trip?
This run is offered as a non‑guided day trip so groups paddle at their own pace, with shuttle service provided by the operator.
Can I bring my own canoe or kayak?
Yes — if you own your own equipment the operator provides shuttle service for privately owned boats and also rents canoes and kayaks.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes — the operator advertises the float as appropriate for all ages, making it a common choice for family outings.
Are there places to stop for a picnic or swim?
Yes — the route includes widened lake sections and more than 6,000 acres of undeveloped state property where paddlers commonly picnic and swim.