Through the centuries, the Baraboo River has shifted from a natural waterway to an industrial powerhouse and back to a thriving ecosystem. It remains a beautiful and vital part of Wisconsin’s landscape, a reminder of both the possibilities of progress and the importance of stewardship.

The Lazy Beaver Canoe and Kayak Race may not be so lazy this year when it is held on Sept. 28. While for the past several years, the Baraboo River from LaValle to Reedsburg has been fairly open without the need for paddlers to portage or lift over logs, that probably won’t be the case this year. Weather has not been kind to the Baraboo and other southern Wisconsin rivers this year.

When buying a new kayak, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the right one for your needs. Here’s what to look for in type, purpose, weight, stability, price, and other factors.

The Baraboo River, flowing majestically through some of the most scenic parts of the Driftless Region in Wisconsin, is a hidden gem for paddling enthusiasts. Its beauty, meandering paths, and relatively calm waters make it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced paddlers. However, as with any water adventure, safety should always be a top priority. Here’s a comprehensive guide to enjoying the Baraboo River while ensuring your experience is both exhilarating and safe.

The Friends of the Baraboo River is excited to share our new mobile app, hosted by Tour Buddy Guide, available on the Apple App Store and on the Google Play Store. The app is free. Once you install and open Tour Buddy Guide, tap Nearby Tours to find the Baraboo River app. Then explore all of the features. Tap the Paddling the Boo Tour. The tour has a one time download cost of $3.99, with unlimited free updates. Once the tour is downloaded, it works without Internet service so that individuals paddling down the Baraboo River know exactly where they are on the river at all times.

Birds were the stars of the trip. I saw dozens and dozens of wood ducks, including several brightly colored drakes. Wood ducks like the Baraboo River but I’ve never seen so many on a trip before. They are skittish and usually fly ahead before you get real close to them. Noisy Canada geese also were part of the trip, noisily honking as I approached them.

It is mid-morning; The air is still, and the sun is radiating a hint of summery heat. Regardless, the cool water feels refreshing on the feet as I stand at the boat landing in Reedsburg. While the sounds of vehicle traffic nearby make modern society evident, I hone into the orchestral tunes led by the intrinsic sound of chirping birds singing combined with the soft buzzing of insects and the gentle trinkling of the Baraboo River as it caresses each banked rock and pebble provide music to the ears. Today is truly a great day to immerse myself on the river.

The millpond had been part of Reedsburg’s community character right up until the dam’s removal in 1973. The Reedsburg Woolen Mill was one of the city’s largest employers and industries up until the time it closed in 1967 after the business went bankrupt.

More and more kayakers and canoeists have been paddling the Baraboo River in the past two years. In an effort to make using the river safer and more user friendly in Sauk County, bridge identification signs were placed along the river in Sauk County late in 2022.

The weather was near perfect but the river was very low last Saturday when the Lazy Beaver Canoe and Kayak Race was held on the Baraboo River.