Sugar River — Albany to Brodhead: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Sugar River · Class I · Wisconsin
Current verdict
Good to paddle
Levels are within the typical runnable range for this section.
USGS gauge 05436500 · updated Jul 9, 8:00 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class I
- Length
- 13 mi
- Float time
- ~4 hr
- Best months
- May–October
- Put-in
- Albany landing
- Take-out
- Brodhead (Ten Eyck Road area)
Reading USGS gauge 05436500 — SUGAR RIVER NEAR BRODHEAD, WI ↗ · runnable range is an estimate (see methodology)
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Sugar River — Albany to Brodhead?
This section is generally runnable at 120–1,500 cfs (a conservative estimate — see our methodology). 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 Sugar River levels?
We read USGS gauge 05436500 — 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 Sugar River — Albany to Brodhead 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 Sugar 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 Sugar River — Albany to Brodhead?
This reach is about 13 miles, roughly 4 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.