6-21-24 Update: We have unfortunately just made the decision to cancel the Horicon Marsh Paddle based on the weather forecast. Safety is our first priority. We will host a shorter, modified event on Saturday, July 13, from 8am-12pm. Watch for more details on our Facebook page or www.horiconmarsh.org. Thanks!
Horicon Marsh Paddle: Saturday, June 22, 7:30am-1pm
On Saturday, June 22, from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM you can join fellow outdoor enthusiasts to paddle the six-and-a-half-mile paddling trail through the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ wildlife staff will be on hand to help guide your paddle while educating about marsh wildlife as you travel downstream through the Horicon Marsh and into the Rock River.
Features along the 6.5 mile trail at the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Are include: Listening and talking to wildlife staff from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) who will be posted at various stopping places along the canoe/kayak trail, a free shuttle back to your vehicle, help loading and unloading your vessel, and free parking. The trail starts at the Green Head Boat Landing and ends at Nebraska St. Landing in Horicon.
There is an open launch time between 7:30 and 10:00am at the Green Head Boat Landing. If you launch after these times, you run the risk of missing the shuttle back to your car. The route will take 3-4 hours depending on the wind conditions. Please plan accordingly. This can be a challenging paddle in windy conditions. Not recommended for your first ever paddle.
The DNR wildlife staff will briefly cover topics related to the marsh’s wildlife and will be available for any other questions. This is a great opportunity to talk with experts and learn from some of the people that work at the marsh every day. Also, restroom facilities will be available at the beginning and end of the trail.
A free shuttle will be provided by Johnson Bus. It will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. from Nebraska Street Boat Landing in Horicon back to your vehicle at Green Head Boat Landing.
For trail maps or other paddle Horicon Marsh information, contact 920-387-7893 or go to www.horiconmarsh.org. GPS coordinates for Green Head boat landing are N43 30 19.5 W088 35 31.3 and physical address is N8600 Green Head Road, Horicon, WI 53032. This is a free event, however donations are always appreciated to help run events like this in the future.
Please direct questions to Liz Herzmann at Elizabeth.herzmann@wisconsin.gov or 920-387-7893.