Wolf,

F) Section 4: Otter Slide to Big Smokey Falls ** Access Fee ** (5.96 miles)

WI, Wolf, Sullivan Falls

WI, Wolf, Sullivan Falls
Photo of Jill Johson by Tom O'Keefe taken 8SEP1996 @ 310 cfs

Gauge Information

River Description

This is the most challenging segment on the Wolf River. The character of the river changes from (generally) longer boulder-garden style rapids upstream to shorter but steeper drops in this section. In both cases fairly long pools separate the main rapids.

Access is controlled by the Menominee Indian Tribe, and permits are required. The $25 fee (price as of 2000, anyway) includes a shuttle to the put-in. You will receive an identification bracelet, which you need to wear in a visible place. Permits may be purchased from Big Smoky Falls Rafting (715-799-3359) located at the take-out. They are generally available from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but trips perhaps a month before or a couple months after this time frame can usually can be arranged by calling the outfitter in advance. (Outfitters are generally NOT on-site outside the summer season unless they have confirmed bookings, so always call ahead for non-summer permits.) Permits are also sometimes available at Shotgun Eddy Campground and Rafting (715-882-4461), but this lacks the convenience of getting your 'pass' and leaving your car at the take-out.

Most trips start at the Otter Slide access, on Highway 55 south of County Highway B (though you can request other options when you arrange your shuttle). The first rapid is Sullivan Falls, a 7-foot river-wide falls. You can scout on river left. In years past, a concession stand operator at this location was often confrontational with private boaters, making it unwise to dally here in or out of the river (I.E., scouting or playing the hole at the bottom of the rapid) when the concession owner was present. A new operator is now in charge and is reportedly much more boater-friendly. Still, it wouldn't hurt to carry some cash to buy a snack here (when the concession stand is in operation), or at least be VERY courteous and express thanks for being able to enjoy this spot.

An alternate Class II channel called Evergreen Rapids (branching off to the right just upstream of Sullivan Falls) provides an option to avoid the main falls entirely, should anyone choose that option.

Shortly downstream you'll arrive at Duck's Nest, a fun Class III drop. The rapid is divided into two sections (Upper Duck's Nest and Lower Duck's Nest), with a short pause between. At the base of the lower part of the drop lies Dave's Wave, a very playable surfing wave. Better have a solid roll here, as the outflow fans out across a shallow boulder field which will be brutal to any who are still upside-down or out of their boat. Also be aware that at high water levels, the rock wall on river left can become a dangerous undercut.

About 3/4 mile downstream is Lunch Rock, large shore rocks that make a perfect lunch stop and sunning spot on warm summer days.

One mile further is another Class III rapid, called Tea Kettle or the Upper Dells. Midway down this dells lies a very dynamic ledge/hole which can provide some interesting play. A short bit of flatwater downstream brings you to the Lower Dells, one of the most challenging rapids on the stretch. You can scout the Dells on the left, which is recommended as the entrance can be choked with strainers (or rafts!).

Two miles of flatwater ensue, culminating at Big Smoky Falls. You'll see an island as you approach it, and a sign directing all traffic to the right. Follow to the right, and scout the rapid on the river right bank. (To the left of the island the river stays high, then tumbles down a nasty boulder sieve that has claimed at least one life. Avoid it!) Big Smoky Falls (right side of island) is a fairly long Class II-III slide leading into a a 7-foot ledge drop kicker into the final pool. A swim early up in this sequence can be nasty, so make sure you're capable of arriving at the ledge upright before you commit to this drop. Paddle across to the left shore below this drop to be at the take-out.

Recommended reading: Paddling Northern Wisconsin, by Mike Svob. Wisconsin Trails Press, Madison, WI.