Little Platte River in Wisconsin

Trip Overview

It was a beautiful, sunny, 45 degree day when we put in on the Little Platte River at Old Lancaster Rd. Water level on the Platte River was at 4.24 ft. The riffles and rapids started almost immediately and they were consistent, with the exception of a few pools, all the way to the end.

Turkeys and geese were everywhere. A few deer as well. Our take out was at the County O Bridge for a total distance (calculated by a Garmin 205) 11.67. The average gradient was 14.13'/mile. Very fun river when water levels are right.

There is no gauge on this river so the Platte River gauge is the only guide. A reading of 4' or more should suffice for a good paddle.

This paddle is not recommended for beginners.

Accommodations:

Put In was not easy! A steep climb down large rocks.

Take out was much easier to climb and there was a visible trail.

Fees:

None that I am aware of.

Directions:

Take Old Lancaster Rd west off Hwy 81 on the northwest side of Platteville, WI. Put in is .75 mile after turn.

Resources:

We stopped and picked up free Grant County maps at the Platteville Tourism Center across from McDonalds on Hwy 151.