In the Victorian era, extreme sports were limited to teatime without doilies, writing witty satires about earnesty, and riding a penny-farthing down a mild incline. Today's Groupon would shock such staid sensibilities: for $25, you get a three-hour white-water-rafting tour from Northwood's Adventures (up to a $52.95 value). River adventurers—up to 10 people can fit in each raft—meet at the Wayside Rest Stop on U.S. Highway 141 near Niagara, Wisconsin, which is approximately six hours east of Minneapolis.
Northwood's Adventures offers downriver cruises through the whitely washed waters of the Menominee River. Guests must arrive 30 minutes before tour-departure time, which launches off daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The approximately three-hour excursion begins with brief safety talks, paddle practice, team-building exercises, and games led by experienced guides. Then, it’s time to meander through a beautiful 2-mile stretch of Class I and II rapids that funnel into Piers Gorge Portage Trail sand beach. After a mild hike to look out upon the rapids to come, gung-ho rafters proceed through the 100-foot-tall rock walls and roiling Class IV water wraiths of mighty Piers Gorge. Post-gorge-tackling, significantly damper rafters rendezvous with cliff-top observers and proceed to the final set of rapids.
In keeping with its strict safety standards, Northwood's Adventures keeps all of its equipment clean and well-maintained, stocks each raft with a competent guide, and provides complimentary life jackets, helmets, and paddles for all passengers. Wetsuits and other gear are available for rental. Certain restrictions apply for children ages 4–11; see the trip policies for more details. Call to reserve your spot or reserve online by following the website's instructions for reserving with a Groupon.
Northwoods Adventures
A bright yellow inflatable raft splashes down the rushing waters of the Menominee River, its helmet-clad passengers hooting victoriously as they speed past banks dappled with lush trees and rock faces. Catering to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and beginner rafters alike, The rafting experts at Northwoods Adventures strive to grant their clients a chance to experience the splash-laden rush via excursions in northeastern Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Their commitment to adventure is second only to the company's dedication to safety, exemplified in everything from its high-quality equipment to the team of meticulously selected guides. Trained as naturalists, medics, rescuers, and interpreters, each was considered for a place on staff only after successfully completing 600 hours of training and translating War and Peace into conversational moose. Tours continue throughout the year to scenic locales, which include a sunset cruise of Piers Gorge and an adrenaline-packed jaunt down the Sturgeon River.
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