Trip Planning

Travel with a companion or group. Plan your trip with a map and advise someone of your planned departure and arrival times.

Most people paddle two to three river miles per hour.

Do not underestimate the power of the wind coming off the prairie. On extremely windy days, it will be difficult to paddle even downstream along portions of the Red Lake River.

Bring a first aid kit that includes waterproof matches.

You must pack out all trash! If you see trash, pack out what you can to help keep the river clean.

Leave only footprints; take only photographs (and perhaps a few fish!).

Safety Considerations

Start your trip with the proper safety equipment. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation devices (PFD) are required by law and should be used in rough waters and heavy rapids. Paddles often break in rapids; carry a spare. Don't overload your canoe; never carry more than three people.

Snag-ridden streams with overhanging branches are often tricky to negotiate. Underwater branches can easily tip a canoe. Watch for branches and rocks.

River levels are important considerations when planning a canoe trip. Both high and low water levels may mean that you drag your canoe more than paddle it. Always be aware of the location of dams along your trip's course. Portages may be necessary.

Not all sections of this water trail are suitable for motor use.

Register your watercraft. All watercraft more than 9 feet in length, including non-motorized canoes and kayaks, must be registered in Minnesota or your state of residence.

Rest Areas and Camping Sites

Public rest areas are available along the route to rest, picnic, and explore.

Camp only in designated campsites, or be sure to contact any land owner to ask permission to access/camp their land.

Bring drinking water. It is only available at a limited number of rest areas. Drinking river water is not recommended, but if you do it must be treated.

Respect private property. Stop only at designated sites unless you have land owner permission; much of the shoreland is private property.

Be sanitary! Use designated toilet facilities or bury human waste away from the river.