How do I access Zabel Road?

Zabel Road is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Zabel Road?

Zabel Road 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 Zabel Road?

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

When is the best time to visit Zabel Road?

The best time to paddle at Zabel Road is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Zabel Road?

Water conditions at Zabel Road include calm, sheltered.

Is Zabel Road good for beginners?

Yes, Zabel Road 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.

a group of people standing on a dock next to a body of water

Photo by Vincent Y @USA on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Zabel Road

Rice Lake, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Zabel Road is a public boat ramp on Red Cedar River - Rice Lake near Rice Lake, 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 Zabel Road near Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Red Cedar River - Rice Lake in Wisconsin, Zabel Road 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 Rice Lake takes about 5 min, putting Zabel Road within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Zabel Road?: Zabel Road is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Zabel Road?: Zabel Road 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 Zabel Road?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Zabel Road?: The best time to paddle at Zabel Road is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Zabel Road?: Water conditions at Zabel Road include calm, sheltered.
Is Zabel Road good for beginners?: Yes, Zabel Road 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: 45.5087, -91.7217