Dane County Parks

Paddlesports

Paddlesports offer a unique and peaceful way to get out and explore the hidden features of Dane County waterways via canoe, kayak or paddleboard.

Launch Sites, Permits and Parking

A permit is not required for paddling on Dane County lakes or waterways. A Lake Access Permit is required if you park at any of the Madison, Monona, and Dane County designated launch sites.

A list of launch site types and any permit requirements can be found on our boat launch sites webpage.

Boat Launch Sites

Water Trails and Maps

Yahara Waterways Water Trail Guide (PDF): water trail maps with cultural, historical and environmental facts about the Yahara chain of lakes.
Badfish Creek Paddling Guide (Google Maps)
Miles Paddled website: includes an interactive map with advice on put-in and take-out spots, difficulty levels, wildlife spotting opportunities, and descriptions and maps of the routes.
Capitol Water Trails website: maps for water trails throughout the county.
Yahara chain of lakes PDF maps: Mendota, Monona (with Wingra), Kegonsa, and Waubesa (with Upper Mud) (PDF). Please note these maps are not intended for navigational use.

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