Map 1: Seven Beaver Lake to Meadowlands
You'll experience a wilderness feel on this upper section of the river. Paddle past remote, forested areas, bluffs and wooded hills. You may even see moose, gray wolves or black bear. Stream flow usually peaks in late April and falls throughout the summer.
From Skibo Mills to near Highway 100, expect Class I-II rapids and numerous boulder beds that may damage watercraft. This area may be impassable at medium to low water levels. Paddling conditions improve below Highway 100 where the river twists and turns past wooded shoreline and occasional farm fields.
Hazards include Class I rapids and a dam below Highway 53. Be aware of the dam's location and portage options.
Recommended day trip
County Road 4 to County Road 95
- Put-in location: County Road 4 bridge, river mile 151.9
- Take-out location: County Road 95 carry-in access, river mile 144.6
- Length: 7.3 river miles
Follow the river's winding path past thickly wooded shoreline with glimpses of farm fields and county roads. You'll encounter several shallow, sandy sections along the way. The put-in location is undeveloped and requires carrying in your canoe or kayak on the downstream side of the bridge.
Explore on shore
Superior National Forest
This national forest holds three million acres of diverse habitat, plants and animals. The upper reaches of the St. Louis River flow through the Laurentian Divide District of the forest. Contact the U.S. Forest Service for rules regarding dispersed camping in the forest during a canoe or kayak trip.
Local contacts
DNR district office
650 Highway 169, Tower, MN 55790
Call 218-300-7841 for river questions or to report conditions and water levels.
DNR northeast regional office
1201 East Highway Two, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-328-8980
Nearest medical facilities
Essentia Health - Northern Pines
5211 Highway 110, Aurora, MN 55705
218-229-2211
Paddling the St. Louis River.
Photo by Bret Alexander
Rocky upper portions of the river.
Photo by Bret Alexander
Map 2: Meadowlands to Highway Two
This portion of the river has a steady current with occasional shallow rapids. Stream flow usually peaks in late April and falls throughout the summer, but there is generally enough water for paddling.
Most of this segment has wild, wooded shorelines. You'll spot farms and homes as you near the towns of Floodwood and Brookston.
Hazards include Class I-II rapids, some of which can be dangerous in high water.
Recommended day trip
Paupores to Brookston
- Put-in location: Paupores trailer access, river mile 61.8
- Take-out location: Brookston trailer access, river mile 53.9
- Length: 7.9 river miles
The river gently curves through thickly forested landscape along this route. You may catch a glimpse of a train through the trees, as railroad tracks follow the river. You'll pass under the railroad trestle near the end of your paddle. Watch for wildlife or bring a fishing pole and cast a line.
Explore on shore
Watercraft campsites
Plan a multi-day trip with several campsite options along this segment of the river. Most watercraft campsites are first-come, first-served, and have a fire ring and picnic table. Plan to pack out your trash and practice Leave No Trace.
Local contacts
DNR northeast regional office
1201 East Highway Two, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-328-8980
Nearest medical facilities
Community Memorial Hospital
512 Skyline Boulevard, Cloquet, MN 55720
218-879-4641
Canoeing this river segment.
Cloud reflections and a forested shoreline.
Photo by Christina Hagen
Map 3: Highway Two to Lake Superior
Between Scanlon and Thomson Reservoir, this river segment provides Minnesota's only whitewater rafting opportunities. Parts of the river are wild, while others are dotted with farms, homes or small towns. Cloquet is the most developed area.
Stream flow usually peaks in late April and falls throughout the summer. The river's flow is affected by the regulation of reservoirs on tributaries, particularly the Whiteface and Cloquet rivers.
Many rapids should only be attempted by highly experienced paddlers. Some sections through Jay Cooke State Park are open only to expert level whitewater kayakers.
The river is a designated National Water Trail from Fond du Lac Dam to Lake Superior. This area is considered the nation's largest freshwater estuary and offers 11 loop trails for paddlers of all skill levels and abilities.
Hazards include multiple dams and Class I-VI rapids. Be aware of locations and portage options.
Recommended day trip
Fond du Lac Reservoir to Oldenburg Falls
- Put-in and take-out location: Fond du Lac Reservoir, river mile 22.1
- Length: 6 to 7 river miles round-trip
If you are looking for flat water, launch and land at the Grand Portage parking lot within Jay Cooke State Park. (Vehicle fee required.) Enjoy a paddle on the reservoir above the Fond du Lac dam, passing the Thomson Hydro Station, to the base of Oldenburg Falls. Water flow may determine how close you can get to Oldenburg Falls.
High hillsides frame this scenic area. Watch for aquatic birds and other abundant wildlife during your trip. Be sure to stay a safe distance from the dam!
Explore on shore
Jay Cooke State Park
Rapids within the park are for expert whitewater kayakers only. Have a knowledgeable paddler guide you through the safest route. These expert-class rapids are not suitable for canoes, flat-water kayaks, rafts or inner tubes.
A take-out spot can be found to the immediate left after you pass under the swinging bridge. The nearby visitor center has restrooms, vending machines, exhibits and picnicking during open hours. Vault toilets are available. A state park vehicle permit is required for vehicles coming in for pick up.
Local contacts
DNR northeast regional office
1201 East Highway Two, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-328-8980
Jay Cooke State Park
780 Highway 210, Carlton, MN 55718
218-673-7000
Nearest medical facilities
Community Memorial Hospital
512 Skyline Boulevard, Cloquet, MN 55720
218-879-4641
Essentia Hospital
407 East Third Street, Duluth, MN 55805
218-786-4000
Saint Luke's Hospital
915 East First Street, Duluth, MN 55805
218-249-5555
Expert whitewater paddlers on this segment.
Experienced paddlers will find many whitewater opportunities.
