FAQs & Rental Options

Top concerns or questions

• What happens if I encounter pollution or an obstacle on the trail?
  Please report it to us using the form here. Photos are helpful, so be sure to upload a photo with your report. If you see a spill or injured/dead wildlife, also consider calling the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Tipline at 1-800-TIP-WDNR.
• Are there any accessible launches for adaptive paddlers?
  While there aren’t many sites that feature accessible launches for individuals with disabilities, there are 3 ADA launches.
• Is there parking along the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail?
  There is generally street parking near most of the launch points, and parking lots at some sites. Be sure to review any posted parking regulations and signs before launching. See our water trail map for help with parking. In addition, several lakeshore sites are “water access only”, which means that they should not be used for putting in or taking out boats, but can be used for resting and to access other services.
• How do I get back to my car once I reach my destination?
  Most paddlers find it helpful to leave a car at the take-out point. If this isn’t feasible for you, consider calling a ride-sharing service or leaving a bike at the downstream take out to bike back up to your car. Roundtrip paddles are also possible, largely upstream of dam impoundments (e.g., upstream of Thiensville Dam, Bridge St. Dam, etc.). Most of the Milwaukee River Estuary can be paddled both upstream and downstream, due to historical dredging, straightening, and deepening for shipping.
• Is camping allowed along the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail?
  There is camping allowed at Waubedonia Park in Ozaukee County (separate reservations required). Otherwise, there are no other places to camp along the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail, although we’d love to change this! There are several islands and other parks that are publicly owned and could accommodate camping in the future.
• How do I get a copy of the physical map?
  You can request a copy of the Milwaukee Urban Water Trail Map here.
• How can I donate?
  You can donate here. Your donation helps support future expansion of the water trail map and printing costs, as well as efforts to maintain and expand access locations.