Our rivers could use the love. Though historical abuses have set the rivers back in some ways, Milwaukeeans have made positive efforts towards improving these amazing urban waterways through individuals cleaning up, great organizations making policy pushes, and collective stewardship. But you know what the entry point for all this good river work is? I'll give you a hint – it's way easy, and in my mind, more fun... you've got to love them! We will be your matchmaker.
Let us sweep you away through each of these great events:
Our Full Moon Canoe rides through downtown in July and August.
Or maybe you're more of a morning person and would love our Lumberjack Kayak that ends with a cabin style brunch at Hubbard Park Lodge?
But then again, you could be a history buff, and our History of Milwaukee Canoe rides would float your boat (literally).
Wait, you like live music? Join us on our River Rhythms Paddle and let's make a fashionable entrance to the River Rhythms concert as we turn heads paddling into Pere Marquette park for a night of picnicking and toe tapping (maybe even hip swaying?).
Ready to take the plunge?
You could get to know all our rivers through our "Get to Know Your Waterway Series." Here's the when, where, and how-to:
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, June 11th
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, June 25th
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, July 9th
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, July 23rd
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
Milwaukee River Paddle: Lime Kiln Park to Mequon-Thiensville Dam
Saturday, July 26th
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Click here to register!
Milwaukee River Paddle: Mequon-Thiensville Dam to Kletzsch Park
Sunday, August 3rd
Noon - 5 p.m.
Click here to register!
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, August 13th
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
Pedal and Paddle Milwaukee
Saturday, August 23rd
Noon - 5 p.m.
Click here to register!
River Rhythms Paddle
Wednesday, August 27th
6:30 - 10 p.m.
Click here to register!
Kinnickinic River Paddle
Saturday, September 27th
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Click here to register!
For those of you who like to make your own adventures, don't forget about our Equipment Lending program! When you support the mission of the Urban Ecology Center by becoming a contributing member, we support your thirst for adventure and the outdoors through our Equipment Lending benefit. As a member, you have access to all of our outdoor adventure equipment, including canoes, kayaks, mountain bikes, camping equipment, fishing poles, lawn sports, garden tools and more... for free.
So come on out with us; let's love our rivers into recognition! Let's turn them from sunken secret avenues to thoroughfares bustling in our admiration for them... our paddles giving due respect to the incredible water ways that make our city one of the best places to canoe or kayak in the country! Our rivers, our community, and each of us will be better for such a love – so let's hit the water!
