Baraboo River — North Freedom to Baraboo: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Baraboo River · Class I · Wisconsin
Current verdict
Good to paddle
Levels are within the typical runnable range for this section.
USGS gauge 05405000 · updated Jul 9, 8:00 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class I
- Length
- 15 mi
- Float time
- ~5 hr
- Best months
- May–October
- Put-in
- North Freedom landing
- Take-out
- Baraboo (Haskins Park / Hwy 113)
Reading USGS gauge 05405000 — BARABOO RIVER NEAR BARABOO, WI ↗
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Baraboo River — North Freedom to Baraboo?
This section is generally runnable at 350–900 cfs. Below that it gets too low and bony; well above the top of the range it becomes pushy and then dangerous. We compare the live USGS reading to that range to produce today's verdict.
How do I check Baraboo River levels?
We read USGS gauge 05405000 — the same public data USGS publishes — about every 30 minutes and compare it to the runnable range for this reach. You can also view the raw gauge yourself at waterdata.usgs.gov.
Is Baraboo River — North Freedom to Baraboo good for beginners?
This section is rated Class I. At good levels it suits confident beginners and up, but it can have riffles or small rapids. Scout anything you can't see, and stay off it at high water.
When is the best time to paddle Baraboo River here?
Typically May–October, when flows are most reliable for this section. Spring can run high after rain or snowmelt; late summer can drop too low. Always check today's gauge reading rather than assuming.
How long does it take to float Baraboo River — North Freedom to Baraboo?
This reach is about 15 miles, roughly 5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.