A stay in a Sparta, Wisconsin lodging with bicycling one day, your muscles may need a change of pace, so spend a day floating on your choice of rivers. The Kickapoo River in southwest Wisconsin is the world’s “crookedest” river. It is shallow and recommended for all ages and all levels. In drought years, it may be necessary to portage. Rental and shuttle service are available in Ontario at:
Kickapoo Paddle Inn, 608-337-4726; Mr. Duck 608-337-4711; Drifty’s 608-337-4288 and Titanic Canoe Rental 608-337-4551.
Kickapoo Yacht Club, La Farge 608-625-2071.
On the Kickapoo River at Readstown, the Crooked River Canoes, Cabins & Camping 608-629-5624.
The La Crosse River is deeper but has sharper turns and needs more than beginner skill level. Fort McCoy has canoes available but no shuttle service. The Black River is wide and deep, slow and easy, with sandbars for picnicking. Canoe & kayak rental and shuttle are available in Melrose at Melrose Express 608-488-7017. In Black River Falls at Black River Express Canoe & Kayak Rental 715-284-8136. Mississippi River Back Waters rentals are available at Goose Island.
Lake Onalaska, Schafer’s Boat and Bait LLC 608-781-3100.
Tags: Black River, Kickapoo River, La Crosse River
Skijoring at Justin Trails Resort
Ginny's Cupboard Soda Fountain in downtown Sparta