yellow canoe on body of water
Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Highway 17 Bridge

Grand Rapids, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 17 Bridge is a public boat ramp on Pokegama Lake near Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Highway 17 Bridge near Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Pokegama Lake in Minnesota, Highway 17 Bridge is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Grand Rapids takes about 10 min, putting Highway 17 Bridge within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Highway 17 Bridge ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 17 Bridge?
Highway 17 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 17 Bridge?
Highway 17 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 17 Bridge?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 17 Bridge?
The best time to paddle at Highway 17 Bridge is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Highway 17 Bridge?
Water conditions at Highway 17 Bridge include calm, sheltered.
Is Highway 17 Bridge good for beginners?
Yes, Highway 17 Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 47.1367, -93.6005

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~10 min from Grand Rapids
Get Directions

47.1367, -93.6005

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