Kickapoo River — Ontario to Rockton: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Kickapoo River · Class I · Wisconsin
Current verdict
High — use caution
Flows are above the comfortable range. Expect strong current, pushy water, cold temperatures and fewer places to stop. Experienced paddlers only — many should wait.
USGS gauge 05408000 · updated Jul 9, 8:00 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class I
- Length
- 12.5 mi
- Float time
- ~5 hr
- Best months
- April–October
- Put-in
- Landing 1, Ontario ↗
- Take-out
- Landing 12, Rockton ↗
Reading USGS gauge 05408000 — KICKAPOO RIVER AT LA FARGE, WI ↗
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Kickapoo River — Ontario to Rockton?
This section is generally runnable at 60–200 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 Kickapoo River levels?
We read USGS gauge 05408000 — 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 Kickapoo River — Ontario to Rockton 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 Kickapoo River here?
Typically April–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 Kickapoo River — Ontario to Rockton?
This reach is about 12.5 miles, roughly 5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.