Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Highway 78

Gratiot, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 78 is a public boat ramp on Pecatonica River near Gratiot, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Highway 78 near Gratiot, Wisconsin. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Highway 78 offers access to Pecatonica River in Wisconsin. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Highway 78 sits about 5 min from Gratiot, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 78?
Highway 78 is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 78?
Highway 78 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 78?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 78?
The best time to paddle at Highway 78 is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Highway 78?
Water conditions at Highway 78 include mild current.
Is Highway 78 good for beginners?
Yes, Highway 78 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 42.5985, -90.0009

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Gratiot
Get Directions

42.5985, -90.0009

Best Paddling in Wisconsin

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Highway 78

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!