Peshtigo, Wisconsin, US

B) Burnt Bridge (FS2134) to Goodman Park Rd (FS 2136) (6.1 miles)

Running Michigan Rapids

Running Michigan Rapids
Photo of Ralph Dedecker and Greg Riemer by Thomas O'Keefe taken 05/15/11 @ 1030 cfs

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
PESHTIGO RIVER NEAR WABENO, WI
usgs-04067958	4.60 - 6.60 ft	I-II(IV)	25h00m	~ 4.49 ft (rc= -0.1 )
	Bridge gauge 0"-7"; Very low. Gauge is well downstream, thus may not be completely accurate to indicate flows in this reach.

River Description

This upper section of the Peshtigo is a scenic run through the Nicolet National Forest. It is a good run when flows are most with several long sections of class II and two distinct class III rapids.

The put-in at Burnt Bridge provides convenient access on the downstream river right side of the bridge. There is also a primitive camp site here. 

After a short warm up you pass Armstrong Creek on river left and then the river drops into Michigan Rapids, a distinct horizon line with the river taking a hard turn to the right. A portage and scouting trail are available on river right. There is a good recovery pool at the end of the rapid but the river continues through a long section of class II.

The river continues through more class II and short sections of flatwater but maintains a good consistent flow as you pass through mixed deciduous and conifer forest.

As you approach a major island about halfway through the run you will see the distinct horizon line at the river right channel that marks Ralton's Rip also known as the Dells. You can scout the rapid by getting out on the island and it is a good idea to check for wood hazards. The first half of the rapid is visible from the top but then the river channel bends to the left and out of site around the corner. The run out below includes more fun class II. 

Below Ralton's Rip there are some more sections of class II before you start to see more cabins and the gradient begins to taper off. The Goodman Park Road Bridge soon comes into view. Good access is available on the downstream river right side of the bridge where you can also find a primitive campsite.