NIAGARA RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Class IV Menace: Run Piers Gorge and a 10‑Foot Drop on the Menominee
A guided, Class IV whitewater run out of Niagara, Wisconsin that threads 200‑foot cliffs and ends with a 10‑foot waterfall—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Class IV Menace: Run Piers Gorge and a 10‑Foot Drop on the Menominee.
Kosir’s Rapid Rafts runs a guided Class IV whitewater trip on the Menominee River out of Niagara, Wisconsin, where paddlers move from a quiet, scenic opening past 200‑foot cliffs into escalating rapids — including Sand Portage Rapid — and culminate by running a 10‑foot waterfall in legendary Piers Gorge (you get to raft Piers Gorge twice).
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Cliffs, Forest and a Quiet Opening
The trip launches in the scenic surroundings of Niagara and drops into a stretch that passes sheer, 200‑foot high cliffs before the river builds toward its main rapids.
Piers Gorge’s 10‑Foot Waterfall
The run culminates in the legendary Piers Gorge with a 10‑foot waterfall — a marquee Class IV feature that defines the trip’s adrenaline moments.
High‑Volume, Western‑Style Whitewater
The Menominee is a large‑volume river with rapids and hydraulics comparable to western rivers, with increasing intensity through sections like Sand Portage Rapid and the opportunity to run Piers Gorge twice.
What the day feels like
What the Run Feels Like
Expect a guided, compact outing that moves from a deceptively calm opening through chunkier whitewater as the river narrows and accelerates; under professional supervision in four‑ to twelve‑person, self‑bailing rafts you’ll punch through Sand Portage Rapid and then tackle Piers Gorge — twice — for a finale that includes a 10‑foot drop.
THE LANDSCAPE
Cliffs, Forest and a Quiet Opening
The trip launches in the scenic surroundings of Niagara and drops into a stretch that passes sheer, 200‑foot high cliffs before the river builds toward its main rapids.
THE DROP
Piers Gorge’s 10‑Foot Waterfall
The run culminates in the legendary Piers Gorge with a 10‑foot waterfall — a marquee Class IV feature that defines the trip’s adrenaline moments.
THE RAPIDS
High‑Volume, Western‑Style Whitewater
The Menominee is a large‑volume river with rapids and hydraulics comparable to western rivers, with increasing intensity through sections like Sand Portage Rapid and the opportunity to run Piers Gorge twice.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should call ahead.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Kosir’s supplies helmets, life jackets and paddles; trips run in self‑bailing rafts.
Transportation between the Menominee River Outpost and the river is provided as part of the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is the rafting season?
Trips run from Memorial Day weekend through October.
How long is the trip?
Expect about 2 to 2.5 hours on the water; total duration depends on water levels.
What are the age limits and pricing?
Standard pricing applies to persons ages 12 and older ($60.00); the operator asks that you call if you have younger participants.
What times do trips run?
Trips are scheduled at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, and at 3:00 PM during weekday afternoons.
When should I arrive?
Check‑in at the Menominee River Outpost is one full hour before your scheduled trip time.
Is safety gear provided?
Yes—helmets, life jackets and paddles are provided as part of the guided trip.