Fall Colors & Salmon Run Kayaking: Brown Deer (2 hrs)

Fall is one of the best times to experience the Milwaukee River! Paddle through the wooded river corridor as the leaves change and salmon make their annual migration upstream.

This beginner-friendly, one-way kayaking adventure takes approximately 2 hours. Start by parking at our Brown Deer location, then we'll give you a ride upriver with your kayak to the launch. After a safety orientation, paddle downstream at your own pace until you arrive right back at your vehicle.

Along the way, enjoy crisp fall air, changing leaves, wildlife, and the chance to spot migrating salmon swimming upstream beneath and around you. Every trip is different: earlier dates may feature more salmon activity and the beginnings of fall color, while October typically brings increasingly vibrant foliage.

No previous kayaking experience is necessary. We'll provide your kayak, paddle, lifejacket, transportation upriver, and a basic paddling and safety orientation before you launch.

Trip at a Glance
Paddle time: Approximately 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Trip style: One-way river trip — park at the finish and ride upriver with us
Location: Milwaukee River, finishing at our Brown Deer location
Included: Kayak, paddle, PFD, transportation upriver and basic instruction
Season: Limited fall series, mid-September through mid-October
About the Salmon & Fall Colors

Each fall, salmon migrate from Lake Michigan into the Milwaukee River on their annual spawning run. The timing and number of fish vary based on water temperature, rainfall, river levels, and other natural conditions, so salmon sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Fall color also changes throughout the season. That's what makes each trip unique: you might encounter salmon moving through the river, brilliant foliage, or—if the timing is just right—both!

What to Wear

Fall paddling can be beautiful, but temperatures can change quickly. Dress for the day's weather in comfortable layers and choose clothing that can get wet. Avoid heavy cotton on colder days and bring an extra layer when conditions call for it.

Trips operate in a variety of fall weather, but we may modify, reschedule, or cancel trips when river or weather conditions make paddling unsafe.