trees on calm body of water under clear blue sky at daytime
Photo by Uniq Trek on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Hacker Drive

West Bend, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Hacker Drive is a public boat ramp on Big Cedar Lake near West Bend, Wisconsin. 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

Good

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

About This Location

Lake access at Hacker Drive near West Bend, Wisconsin. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Big Cedar Lake in Wisconsin, Hacker Drive is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from West Bend, Hacker Drive is a convenient option for West Bend-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hacker Drive ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hacker Drive?
Hacker Drive is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hacker Drive?
Hacker Drive 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 Hacker Drive?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hacker Drive?
The best time to paddle at Hacker Drive is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Hacker Drive?
Water conditions at Hacker Drive include calm, sheltered.
Is Hacker Drive good for beginners?
Yes, Hacker Drive 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: 43.4046, -88.2516

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from West Bend
Get Directions

43.4046, -88.2516

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