Many times on this blog, we’ve mentioned how much of a great destination for outdoor lovers Wausau is, and have gone so far as to call it Wisconsin’s true hidden gem of a destination. We stand by that assertion. Wausau is located on the picturesque Wisconsin River, which lends itself to an unbelievable variety of water sports, including, whitewater kayaking and boating. In fact, the rapids around Wausau are a draw for some of the world’s most elite whitewater athletes. This summer is your perfect opportunity to come experience the waters around Wausau for yourself. Book your room at the luxury Stewart Inn Boutique Hotel near downtown Wausau, and get ready to get wet in the Wisconsin River.
Whitewater Adventure in Wausau
In Wausau’s early days, the Wisconsin River’s rapids were a perfect source of power for the regions sawmills. They still provide electricity today, but their even more popular for their extreme thrill they provide for adventurous boaters. There is nothing more exemplary of Wausau as an outdoor destination than the Wausau Whitewater Park. It was built in 1975, and spans a stretch of river equal to the length of approximately 6 football fields. Paddling through the park depends on the release of water from upstream dams, but at its best it produces Class II to III whitewater rapids.
World Class athletes descend on Wausau each year for whitewater competitions, some of which are even part of qualifications for Olympic athletes. Upcoming events include the following:
- Team River Runner 2017. This event is a disabled Veteran’s Paddle, and takes place on July 22-23.
- In mid-August, the Midwest Freestyle Championships will come to Wausau Whitewater as part of the 2017 Badger State Games. These races are incredibly fun to watch, but there will also be recreational paddling available that weekend for $15.
- Other dam releases for recreational boating will take place this summer on July 15th-16th, August 5-6th, and September 16th-17th.
Wausau’s Whitewater Park is located in the heart of downtown Wausau. When you’re done there, head into downtown Wausau for a refreshing cold beer at Red Eye Brewing Company or Bull Falls Brewery, followed by dinner at one of Wausau’s delicious restaurants. When you’re ready to rest up for the next day of adventure, return to the world-class accommodations at the Stewart Inn Boutique Hotel. Rooms will book up quickly this summer, so make your reservations today!