The Watonwan River is usually calm, but can flow quickly at times. Many paddlers enjoy the 30-mile segment from Madelia to the river's confluence with the Blue Earth River at Garden City. You'll pass sloping, tree-lined banks with farmland just beyond. There are no major rapids. Be alert for the occasional snag (fallen tree), which may tip an unwary paddler.
Established in 1996 as a state water trail, the Watonwan River's name has changed slightly from its original name, Watanwan, which means "where fish bait abounds" in Dakota.