ATV Riding in Wisconsin: UTV Trails & River Tubing

Operate a state-of-the-art UTV yourself, then float the river on your own terms.

A full-day activity in Wisconsin combining UTV trail riding and river tubing on the Saint Croix, with both adventures guided by local staff. You operate the Polaris UTV yourself through forest trails and overlooks, then switch to tubes, kayaks or canoes for the downstream float. All safety gear, shuttle transport between sites, and trail passes are included. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete the waiver and safety briefing.

The experience

The day splits into two separate adventures, each one a different kind of control. You start at Throttle RX, the region's primary UTV rental base, where you'll be fitted for a helmet and briefed on the 2024-25 Polaris: a machine built for the winding forest trails, wooden bridges and overlooks that make up the first leg. The trails run through both Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the operator handles the trail passes. You're not following a guide on a set route. You're operating the machine yourself, choosing your pace through the terrain, stopping at historical sites, sand bars or scenic overlooks as the mood takes you. Local staff ride alongside to offer knowledge of the area and point out wildlife: deer, bald eagles, the occasional catfish or sturgeon in the shallows if you're watching the water.

After the trails cool down, you trade the UTV for tubes, kayaks or canoes and head downstream on the Saint Croix River. The shuttle runs between the two sites, so there's no logistics puzzle. The river itself forms the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the float is calm enough to swim, fish or simply drift. Life vests are provided and required for anyone under 12. Everyone wears one anyway because the water is clear and the pace is slow. You can stop at any of the sandbars to rest, and the whole river section typically runs 4 to 6 hours depending on water conditions and how many stops you make.

Safety gear for both adventures (helmets, goggles, life vests, paddles) comes with the booking. The operator provides maps and points of interest, refuels the UTV at no extra charge, and offers courtesy transportation to and from the river. Bring a credit card. The operator holds a refundable damage deposit authorization ($1,500 or $3,000 depending on the machine you select). Children as young as 5 can come along, though only riders 46 inches or taller can operate the UTV itself: younger kids can ride as passengers or stick to the river portion.

What’s included

• Ride a 2024-25 Polaris UTV through forest trails with local guide support.
• all helmets, goggles, trail passes and courtesy refueling.
• shuttle transportation to and from the river.
• tubes, kayaks or canoes for the downstream float.
• life vests and paddles.
• maps and points of interest.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (21 and older) · Child (5 to 20 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcome

Operated by Throttle RX Rentals

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to operate the UTV yourself rather than ride as a passenger. The full day gives you both the control of the trails and the freedom to set your own pace on the water.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 20 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What's the Saint Croix River like when we float it?

The Saint Croix is calm, clear water where you'll see deer, bald eagles and large catfish and sturgeon in the shallows. You can stop at sandbars to swim or fish, and the float typically takes 4 to 6 hours depending on stops and water conditions.

Do I need any experience to ride the UTV?

No prior experience is required. You'll receive a safety briefing and helmet sizing before you leave, and local guides ride alongside to offer support and knowledge of the trails.

What happens if I arrive late?

Arrive at least 15 minutes early to complete the waiver and allow time for safety briefing, helmet sizing and machine loading. Late arrival cuts into your trail time and may affect the overall schedule.

Can I fish on the river?

Yes, bring your own fishing poles. The Saint Croix holds a variety of fish species, and you'll have time to stop at sandbars and try your luck during the float.