Raft the Peshtigo: Class I–IV Drops from Spring Melt to Warm Summer Runs

TOWN OF SILVER CLIFF RAFTING FIELD GUIDE

Raft the Peshtigo: Class I–IV Drops from Spring Melt to Warm Summer Runs

Guided rafting on the Peshtigo River out of Kosir's Rapid Rafts—this guide explains seasonality, what to bring, and what to expect on the 2–3 hour runs.

Raft the Peshtigo: Class I–IV Drops from Spring Melt to Warm Summer Runs.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Town of Silver Cliff
Operator
Kosir's Rapid Rafts
Category
Rafting
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Out of the Town of Silver Cliff, Kosir's Rapid Rafts runs guided trips on the Peshtigo River that slice through Class I–IV whitewater; spring’s high, chilly flows and summer’s warmer, family-oriented runs both promise fast water and scenic river corridors.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Class I–IV Whitewater
THE RAPIDS

Class I–IV Whitewater

The Peshtigo delivers a concentrated stretch of Midwest whitewater—ranging from easy waves to technical Class IV drops—so runs can feel wild in spring and rowdy yet manageable in summer.

A Guided Trip with Variable Boats
THE GUIDED RUN

A Guided Trip with Variable Boats

Every trip is guided; boat type changes with water level—from larger guided rafts to single-person inflatables in low water—and outfitting includes helmets, life jackets and paddles, plus transport to the river put-in.

Spring Adrenaline vs. Summer Family Runs
SEASONAL VARIATION

Spring Adrenaline vs. Summer Family Runs

Early-April to May 31 brings cold, fast spring flows with provided Farmer John wetsuits and booties; from June through September the same stretch runs warmer and more family-friendly, though summer levels can drop and expose rocks.

What the day feels like

What the Run Feels Like

Expect a compact, energetic river experience: guided gear-up at the river headquarters, a short vehicle transfer to the put-in, then two to three hours of continuous whitewater riding—spring pushes cold, fast water and bigger swells while summer smooths the edge for broader family participation.

Class I–IV Whitewater

THE RAPIDS

Class I–IV Whitewater

The Peshtigo delivers a concentrated stretch of Midwest whitewater—ranging from easy waves to technical Class IV drops—so runs can feel wild in spring and rowdy yet manageable in summer.

A Guided Trip with Variable Boats

THE GUIDED RUN

A Guided Trip with Variable Boats

Every trip is guided; boat type changes with water level—from larger guided rafts to single-person inflatables in low water—and outfitting includes helmets, life jackets and paddles, plus transport to the river put-in.

Spring Adrenaline vs. Summer Family Runs

SEASONAL VARIATION

Spring Adrenaline vs. Summer Family Runs

Early-April to May 31 brings cold, fast spring flows with provided Farmer John wetsuits and booties; from June through September the same stretch runs warmer and more family-friendly, though summer levels can drop and expose rocks.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who gets the most from this trip.

1
Thrill‑SeekersExcellent fit—spring high water creates intense Class III–IV moments for experienced paddlers looking for fast, technical runs.
2
Active FamiliesWell suited in summer when runs are warmer and more forgiving; note that participants must be at least 10 years old.
3
First‑Time RaftersA guided format makes this accessible for beginners on summer trips, but operators decide boat assignment by water level, so expect variable craft sizes.
4
Cold‑Water EnthusiastsIdeal in spring—operators provide Farmer John wetsuits and booties and recommend warm base layers for chilly conditions and fast flows.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

Spring runs operate from early April through May 31; summer runs begin June 1 and run into September. Trips typically last 2–3 hours, depending on water levels.

What to Bring

Spring: bring an unlined windbreaker, wool or synthetic pullover, wool socks and polypropylene long‑underwear; the operator supplies Farmer John wetsuits and bootie rentals. For all runs the operator provides helmets, life jackets and paddles.

Logistics & Check‑in

Check in 30 minutes before your scheduled launch; the operator is located right on the river, provides transport to the put-in, and trips end back at headquarters where you can change and relax.

Rates & Water Levels

Early April–May 31 pricing starts at $60 per person (ages 10+); mid‑May through Labor Day starts at $40 per person (ages 10+). In summer the river can run extremely low and rocky—call or email the operator to confirm water conditions.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Are trips guided?

Yes. All trips are guided; on some spring runs the guide may be in a separate raft or their own craft.

What is the minimum age to raft?

Participants must be ages 10 and older.

How long is the trip?

Trips run about 2 to 3 hours, dependent on water levels.

What gear does the operator provide?

The operator provides helmets, life jackets, paddles and transport to the put-in; spring trips include Farmer John wetsuit and bootie rentals.

When are spring and summer runs?

Spring trips run from early April through May 31 (cold, fast water); summer trips run from June 1 through September and are warmer and more family‑oriented.

What about low water in summer?

Summer months can see extremely low, rocky conditions; the operator recommends calling or emailing to check water levels before booking.