Apple River (Wisconsin)

The Apple River is an approximately 77.5-mile-long (125 km) river in northwestern Wisconsin, USA, originating from Staples Lake in Barron County and flowing southwestward through Polk and St. Croix counties before joining the Saint Croix River. It passes through places like Amery, Star Prairie, and Somerset and is known for its scenic landscapes, including deep canyons, steep cliffs, and wooded banks.The river is especially popular for recreational activities, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. In the Somerset section, tubing—relaxed floating on inner tubes—is the highlight, ranging from calm family-friendly stretches to exciting rapids. Numerous outfitters rent tubes and provide shuttle services, often combined with camping at nearby campgrounds like River’s Edge, which also host concerts and events.Additionally, the Apple River is excellent for canoeing and kayaking, featuring mild to moderate rapids (Class I-II) suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Fishing is possible year-round, with species such as bass, pike, and trout. In parks along the river, like Apple River County Park near Amery, hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming opportunities beckon. The lower section through the Apple River Canyon also offers impressive natural scenery for paddling trips and on-foot exploration.