How do I access Upper Goose Island?

Upper Goose Island is a public bank access in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Upper Goose Island?

Upper Goose Island supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Upper Goose Island?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Upper Goose Island?

The best time to paddle at Upper Goose Island is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Upper Goose Island?

Water conditions at Upper Goose Island include mild current.

Is Upper Goose Island good for beginners?

Yes, Upper Goose Island 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.

Photo by Ray Graciano on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Upper Goose Island

La Crosse, WI · Bank Access · Public

Upper Goose Island is a public bank access on Wigwam Slough-Mississippi River near La Crosse, 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

Bank Access

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

Bank Access accessing Wigwam Slough-Mississippi River near La Crosse, Wisconsin. mild current conditions.

Paddlers heading out on Wigwam Slough-Mississippi River will find Upper Goose Island in Wisconsin a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.

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.

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

Getting here from La Crosse takes about 5 min, putting Upper Goose Island within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Upper Goose Island?: Upper Goose Island is a public bank access in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Upper Goose Island?: Upper Goose Island supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Upper Goose Island?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Upper Goose Island?: The best time to paddle at Upper Goose Island is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Upper Goose Island?: Water conditions at Upper Goose Island include mild current.
Is Upper Goose Island good for beginners?: Yes, Upper Goose Island 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: 43.7457, -91.2254