Bois Brule River
Douglas County, Wisconsin
The Bois Brule is a premier paddling destination in northern Wisconsin — a diverse river offering something for every skill level. From lakes to quiet water to exciting whitewater, the Brule drops 418 feet in elevation as it flows north to Lake Superior, plunging 328 feet in just the last 19 miles. The Chippewa called it 'White Falls River' for its strong foaming current. A remarkable river that culminates on the sandy shores of Lake Superior.
Miles
44 mi
Difficulty
Varies
Groomed
No
Fee
Free
Don't Miss
The Bois Brule drops 418 feet as it rushes to Lake Superior — the last 19 miles drop 328 feet alone, creating world-class whitewater. Presidents Coolidge, Hoover, Eisenhower, and Cleveland all fished the Brule. It ends dramatically on the sandy shore of Lake Superior.
Trail Systems
Full Bois Brule River
44-mile river from lakes and quiet water in the upper section to thrilling whitewater in the lower 19 miles before emptying into Lake Superior. Two campgrounds along the route.
Trailheads
- 📍Upper access near Solon Springs
- 📍Lake Superior outlet near town of Brule
📞 Brule River State Forest — 715-372-4866
Rules & Regulations
- No fee for river access
- Campground fees apply at Bois Brule and Copper Range Campgrounds — reservable
- Lower section has expert whitewater — not suitable for beginners
- Wisconsin fishing license required — world-class trout fishery
Trailer Parking
| Location | Address | Trail Access |
|---|---|---|
| Brule River State Forest | 6250 S Ranger Rd, Brule WI 54820 | Bois Brule River access |
ATV / UTV Clubs
- 🏍️Brule River State Forest
Official Resources
Nearby Trails
North Country National Scenic Trail — Wisconsin
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American Birkebeiner Trail System
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CAMBA Trails — Cable Area
Sawyer/Bayfield County · 135 mi
Namekagon River — Wisconsin's Moving National Park
Bayfield/Sawyer/Washburn/Burnett County · 98 mi
Location
Quick Facts
- County
- Douglas County
- Trail Types
- kayak-canoe
- Total Miles
- 44 miles
- Difficulty
- Varies
- Season
- spring, summer, fall
- Groomed
- No
- Fee
- No