Menominee River Whitewater Rafting: Piers Gorge Class IV Rapids
Run the Midwest's biggest whitewater twice in a single afternoon
Whitewater rafting on the Menominee River is a 3-hour guided activity where you paddle through flat sections and Class IV rapids at Piers Gorge, running the same section twice so families can rotate who paddles and who watches from shore. Professional guide, shuttle service and all safety gear are included; children under 12 portage the Class IV section with an adult while others paddle, then switch roles on the second run.
The Experience
The trip starts along the 200-foot cliffs that border Michigan and Wisconsin. You'll paddle through a scenic flatwater section where there's time to swim and play games before the river picks up speed. Then you hear it: the roar of Piers Gorge, the Midwest's biggest whitewater. This is Class IV rapids, and you're about to run it twice.
On the first run through Piers Gorge, everyone paddles who is old enough—that means 12 and up. Children under 12 portage the rapids with a parent or guardian, walking around while the rest of the group runs the big water. After the first run, your guide leads a short hike back to the top of the gorge. Then you do it again. On the second run, families can switch: the adult who portaged the first time can paddle now, and the child watches from shore. Since you go through twice, everyone in the family gets a turn at the water that matters.
The whole trip takes 3 hours. You're picked up and shuttled to the river, and the shuttle brings you back when it's over. The guide is a professional who knows the water; all safety gear—helmet, life jacket, everything required—is provided. The trip runs in all weather, so dress for wet conditions. Children as young as 5 can come along, though only those 12 and older paddle the Class IV section.
What’s included
- Professional guide leading the trip.
- shuttle service to and from the river.
- all required safety gear including helmet and life jacket.
- two runs through the Class IV rapids of Piers Gorge with a short hike between them.
- all taxes and booking fees.
Operated by Wildman Adventure Resort
Is this one for you?You paddle the raft yourself—this is not a tour where you sit and watch. Families with kids 5 and up can all go, though children under 12 walk around the Class IV section on the first run and paddle on the second, so parents can take turns in the big water and everyone gets a turn if they want one.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
Can my kids paddle the Class IV rapids at Piers Gorge, or do they have to sit it out?
Children under 12 must portage the Class IV section—they walk around it with an adult while the paddlers run the rapids. On the second run through Piers Gorge, families can switch roles so everyone gets a turn in the big water if they want one.
What's included in the rafting trip, and what do I need to bring?
The trip includes a professional guide, shuttle service to and from the river, and all required safety gear: helmet and life jacket. Bring a change of clothes and dress for water—you will get wet. Rafting photos are available to purchase after the trip.
How long does the whole thing take, and what's the river like?
The trip is 3 hours total. You start on flat water where there's time to swim and play, then move into the Class IV rapids of Piers Gorge. You run those rapids twice, so the day is split between scenic paddling and adrenaline.
Is this trip safe for young kids, and what's the minimum age?
The minimum age is 5 years old. The trip is family-friendly and suitable for all skill levels. Children under 12 don't paddle the Class IV section—they portage with an adult—so families can participate together without everyone running the biggest rapids.
What happens if the weather is bad—does the trip still run?
The trip operates in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately for wet and potentially cold weather. If you arrive late or don't show up, no refund is offered, so plan to arrive on time.
Menominee River Whitewater Rafting: Piers Gorge Class IV Rapids
3h · EN
from US$ 99 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.9494 reviews
