This time of year, and into fall, canoeing and kayaking can be an awesome way to spend time on the water.  However, these and other forms of recreation are dependent on river levels so make sure you check with the Minnesota DNR to get the best, most accurate information about current conditions.

The DNR now has 120 real-time river-level gauges along many of Minnesota’s state water trails.  These interpreting river-level gauges have been around since 1971, however they've recently got some significant upgrades.

Level maps are updated hourly and color-coded dots indicate water levels ranging from “scrapable” (so low that paddlers may have to get out of their watercraft to avoid rocks); to “very high” (where paddling is considered dangerous and not recommended).

Use the link below to check out the Minnesota River Level Map and see the upgrades to the overall system.

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