Camp New Wood County Park to Alexander Dam
Try this 9.6-mile scenic journey from Camp New Wood to Alexander Dam. This moderate difficulty segment lets you experience Lincoln County’s logging history while soaking in the tranquil surroundings along the Wisconsin River.
Camp New Wood County Park to Alexander Dam
Try this 9.6-mile scenic journey from Camp New Wood to Alexander Dam. This moderate difficulty segment lets you experience Lincoln County’s logging history while soaking in the tranquil surroundings along the Wisconsin River.
Segment vitals
Segment information:
Start: Camp New Wood County Park
45.287797, -89.792781
End: Alexander Dam
45.188514, -89.754247
Miles: 129 to 137.6
Segment length: 8.6 miles
Time required: 2 hours & 42
minutes
Segment difficulty: Moderate
Skill level: Novice
Water level: Good
Gradient: 3.6 Feet/Mile
Trail Type: Scenic
Internet: Good
Portage: Alexander Dam
Check out the live data
Flow rates
Flow rates play a crucial role in determining the conditions of rivers for canoeing, kayaking, and paddling activities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, being informed about flow rates is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
USGS - Wisconsin River at Merrill, WI - 05395000
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NOAA - Wisconsin River at Merrill
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NOAA - Wisconsin River below Alexander Dam
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Landmarks
Father Menard Monument
Alexander Dam
Posey Rapids - Class I-II
Bill Cross Rapids - Class I-II
Trip description
This is an 8.6-mile stretch of unmatched natural beauty along the trail starting at Mile Marker 129. One starts their journey with a sharply raising bank on the east side of the river as you transverse the 1,500 acre Bill Cross Wildlife Area that blankets both sides of the trail with a mixed hardwood forest. The wildlife area is named for William Henry Harrison Cross, an early pioneer who operated a fur trading post for the John Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company in the early 1800s along this part of the river.
At Mile Marker 129.5 one encounters the first of two rapids located within the wooded banks of the Bill Cross Wildlife Area. Posey Rapids is an easy Class I descent with the rapids not more than a riffle in low water. The rapids are named after Julius Posey, an early fur trader in the area.
Two miles of flat water precede the Class I-II Bill Cross Rapids located at Mile Marker 131.7. The river constricts a bit as one paddles through a boulder garden but can be easily navigated by choosing between a couple of chutes along with some maneuvering. In low water it is quite rocky. The original rapids had a nine-foot fall before the Alexander Dam was built in 1924.
At Mile Marker 132.6, the New Wood River enters from the right hidden behind a small island that juts into the river. At Mile Marker 134, which is located a short distance downstream, one can take-out at Lokemoen Road Landing on the left bank.
The current diminishes gradually as you enter Lake Alexander. We would recommend paddling along the left bank since this is a popular lake for powerboaters and pontoons. The take-out is located at Mile Marker 137.6 on the left bank at the Alexander Dam. This is a short portage if one is doing a through paddle. Camping is also available, but you must reserve a campsite with the Wisconsin DNR for Council Grounds State Park. A paddle rack is available to lock your paddle craft next to the dam.
Landings
Camp New Wood County Park Landing
With picnic areas, playgrounds, and 7 camping spots along the scenic Wisconsin River, Camp New Wood is a great place to unwind. You can hike the scenic Wisconsin River Segment of the Ice Age Trail that passes through this park.
Coordinates: 45.287797, -89.792781
Parking: Yes
Lokemoen Road Landing
Coordinates: 45.221254, -89.790056
Parking: Yes
Council Grounds State Park Landing
Council Grounds State Park Landing beckons with its enchanting landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities! From picnicking to hiking and water adventures on Lake Alexandria and the Wisconsin River, this park has it all. This park also has plenty of camping spots for you to set up camp along the Wisconsin River.
Coordinates: 45.190983, -89.749783
Parking: Yes
Alexander Dam
Discover the hidden gem of Alexander Dam Portage! Immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and bask in the glory of the Wisconsin River.
The portage is on the left side of the bank facing downstream
Mileage Marker 134
Portage Length: 889 feet
Takeout coordinates:
Launch Coordinates D°M’S”: 45°11’18.7″N 89°45’15.3″W
Launch Coordinates Degrees: 45.188514, -89.754247
Put-in coordinates:
Launch Coordinates D°M’S”: 45°11’12.6″N 89°45’09.8″W
Launch Coordinates Degrees: 45.188514 N, -89.754247 W
Coordinates: 45.186830, -89.752708
Parking: Yes
History
The search for Wisconsin's first priest
Father Schmirler was trying to discover the exact location where Father Rene Menard died while trying to reach refugee Indians on the headquarters of the Black River in the summer of 1661. When Menard died, Iroquois warriors hundreds of miles to the east had driven rival Indian nations who were sympathetic to the French from New York, Ohio, Quebec and Michigan.
Wildlife
American Mink
American minks are found throughout Wisconsin, particularly in wetland habitats near streams, rivers, and lakes. Their sleek, dark fur and semi-aquatic lifestyle make them well-suited for hunting along waterways, where they prey on fish, amphibians, and small mammals.
Wild Turkey
Wild turkeys are a common sight across Wisconsin, with populations thriving in both rural and suburban areas. Known for their distinctive gobbling calls and impressive plumage, these birds prefer forested habitats but can also be found in open fields and agricultural areas.
Belted Kingfisher
Belted Kingfishers are a familiar sight along Wisconsin’s waterways, known for their distinctive rattling calls and aerial fishing prowess. They inhabit a variety of aquatic habitats where they hunt for fish and other aquatic prey from perches overlooking the water.
Spring Peeper
Spring peepers are a common and beloved amphibian species in Wisconsin, known for their high-pitched, chirping calls that mark the arrival of spring. They inhabit a variety of wetland habitats, including ponds, marshes, and forested areas, where they breed and lay their eggs in temporary bodies of water.
Wildlife
American Mink
American minks are found throughout Wisconsin, particularly in wetland habitats near streams, rivers, and lakes. Their sleek, dark fur and semi-aquatic lifestyle make them well-suited for hunting along waterways, where they prey on fish, amphibians, and small mammals.
Wild Turkey
Wild turkeys are a common sight across Wisconsin, with populations thriving in both rural and suburban areas. Known for their distinctive gobbling calls and impressive plumage, these birds prefer forested habitats but can also be found in open fields and agricultural areas.
Belted Kingfisher
Belted Kingfishers are a familiar sight along Wisconsin’s waterways, known for their distinctive rattling calls and aerial fishing prowess. They inhabit a variety of aquatic habitats where they hunt for fish and other aquatic prey from perches overlooking the water.
Spring Peeper
Spring peepers are a common and beloved amphibian species in Wisconsin, known for their high-pitched, chirping calls that mark the arrival of spring. They inhabit a variety of wetland habitats, including ponds, marshes, and forested areas, where they breed and lay their eggs in temporary bodies of water.
Nearby attractions and activities
Ice Age Trail in Camp New Wood County Park
Casa-Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Bierman Family Aquatic Center
Ice Age Trail - Turtle Rock
Ice Age Trail - Grandfather Falls
Council Grounds State Park
The Rock Island
Know Before You Go
Please review these important safety reminders before getting on the water.
Safe & Smart
Check the weather and water temperature before going paddling.
Wear a Lifejacket
Don’t be a statistic.
Know Your Limits
There are old paddlers and bold paddlers, but no old bold paddlers! Know your skill level.
Don’t Drink and Paddle
Water and booze don’t mix.
Have the Right Gear
Footwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, trail map, water, snacks, water tight bag for personal items and your cell phone, bilge pump, and first aid kit.
File a Float Plan
Communicate to family and friends your put-in and take-out, and when you are paddling.
Water Levels & Obstacles
Be aware of water levels, rapids, and dams before you get into the water.
In Case of Emergency Call 911
Remember your mile markers and landmarks.
Have a Map or App
Take a map or download an app to know where you are at on the water.
No Glass on the Wisconsin River
It is illegal to have glass on the Wisconsin River. If you are caught, the DNR will fine you up to $749.
Know Before You Go
Please review these important safety reminders before getting on the water.
Safe & Smart
Check the weather and water temperature before going paddling.
Wear a Lifejacket
Don’t be a statistic.
Know Your Limits
There are old paddlers and bold paddlers, but no old bold paddlers! Know your skill level.
Don’t Drink and Paddle
Water and booze don’t mix.
Have the Right Gear
Footwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, trail map, water, snacks, water tight bag for personal items and your cell phone, bilge pump, and first aid kit.
File a Float Plan
Communicate to family and friends your put-in and take-out, and when you are paddling.
Water Levels & Obstacles
Be aware of water levels, rapids, and dams before you get into the water.
In Case of Emergency Call 911
Remember your mile markers and landmarks.
Have a Map or App
Take a map or download an app to know where you are at on the water.
No Glass on the Wisconsin River
It is illegal to have glass on the Wisconsin River. If you are caught, the DNR will fine you up to $749.
Apps
We put together some recomended apps for anyone planning a trip out on the water.
Resources
Check out these resources to help you out when you are planning a trip out on the water.
Apps
We put together some recomended apps for anyone planning a trip out on the water.
Resources
Check out these resources to help you out when you are planning a trip out on the water.
Great Pinery Heritage Waterway
Safety
Visit the trail
Plan your trip
About the Pinery
Water Trail Segments
- Hat Rapids Dam to Kings Dam
- Kings Dam to Tomahawk Dam
- Tomahawk Dam to Camp New Wood County Park
- Camp New Wood County Park to Alexander Dam
- Alexander Dam to Riverside Park Landing
- Riverside Park Landing to Brokaw Mill Landing
- Brokaw Landing Mill to Gilbert Park Landing
- Gilbert Park Landing to Oak Island Park Landing
- Oak Island Park Landing to Rothschild Dam
- Rothschild Dam to Chuck’s Landing
- Chuck’s Landing to Lake DuBay Dam
- Lower Big Rib River Water Trail
- Lower Eau Claire River Trail
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