Ready to glide past forested lands, sandstone bluffs, and watch for wildlife? The river is ready for you!
The run from Wilderness Park to Dundas is about 7 river miles (add an extra 2 miles to land in Northfield) and encompasses a wide variety of ever-changing terrain. The river is typically wide, clear of large obstacles and easy for all levels of paddling. Depending on water conditions (speed of the river) this trek can take anywhere from 1.5 hours to 3 hours, with an average of 2.5 hours.

River Levels

• You can use the following guideline to determine when it is best to paddle the river.  Please note that if we have experienced a large amount of rain to the south and south west, river levels may rise rapidly over the course of 24 hours.  If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask.

  • Low Water: Cannon River < 9.5ft

    • Rocks, sandbars become significant obstacles; canoes will be bottoming out/getting stuck; no tandem kayaks

  • Sweet Zone: Cannon River between 10.5 - 12ft

    • Fabulous paddling conditions for everyone, easy going, even lazy at the 10.5ft mark

  • Sweet with a little spice: Cannon River between 12 - 13ft

    • Wilderness run is still in excellent paddling condition

  • Edgy: Cannon River between 13 - 14ft

    • Landing can be a little more difficult in Dundas, Wilderness run is still in great condition; at 13.5ft we recommend moving to a Northfield landing site

  • Partial shut down: Cannon River between 14 - 15ft

    • Wilderness run is open to solo kayaks only for semi-experienced paddlers

  • Full shut down: Cannon River >15ft

    • All runs are closed for safety

Click here to view by the hour current river height and flow.

• Common Questions:
  Q: Are there rapids?
  A: The Cannon River is unclassified because it has no rapids. It does have ripples which are easy for any level of paddler.
  Q: How will I know where to get out?
  A: Our exit spot is easy to recognize and you won't miss it! A permanent sign and gravel/rock exit await in Northfield and large orange pool noodles mark the Dundas exit.
  Q: The river looks fast? Is it dangerous?
  A: The river will move at different speeds depending on how narrow or wide the river is at any given point. We recommend reviewing the water level recommendations above.
  Q: I want to paddle the Straight River, can you launch me there?
  A: Unfortunately no. The Straight River is far more unpredictable and can pose hazards we may not know about.
  Q: Can I paddle from Faribault?
  A: At this time we are not offering that stretch of river. There is a very tight spot on the river from the 2018 tornadoes that poses significant risk and hazard to inexperienced paddlers.
  Q: Why don't you offer tubing on the river?
  A: The river is designated Wild and Scenic, which means no tubing unless your business was grandfathered in back in 1984. Also, it's just not our style. We love small groups, peaceful relaxation and a deep appreciation for nature.

Kayaking Checklist

• What to bring?

  • PFD : Personal Floatation Device – We require them and have them available, but you’re welcome to bring your own

  • Swimsuit / board-shorts – stuff you don’t mind getting wet

  • Strapped sandals or old shoes – they’ll get wet and flip flops have a tendency of coming off as you enter your boat and getting washed downstream

  • Water – it’s important to keep yourself well hydrated

  • Snacks – if you desire

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses and/or a hat

  • Waterproof camera – if you like

  What not to bring:

  • Electronics unless they are in waterproof sealed cases, and even then it is at your own risk of getting wet

  • For any items that need to stay dry, we do offer 10 liter dry bags and waterproof phone cases for rent for $5 a day

  • Expensive clothing, jewelry, non-waterproof watches, etc.

  • Alcohol. There are plenty of great watering holes to check out after your trip.