We run our Mississippi backwaters tour from the Winneshiek Slough boat ramp which is located in Pool 9 of the Upper Mississippi River Fish and Wildlife Refuge. The nearest towns are DeSoto, Wi and Lansing, IA. Your tour meetup location is detailed and a specific Google Map is sent to you in your confirmation email.

We will run a tour with a few sprinkles and moderate rain. It's all part of the adventure and often a little rain can be exhilarating and add to the beauty. Takes rain to get a rainbow! We will cancel/reschedule or refund a tour or rental under the following conditions as defined by the National Weather Service: “any prediction of sustained lightning a heavy rain of 0.30″/hour or more”

Our tours run 2 to 3 hours long. Conditions of the day - weather, current, paddling ability, will affect the length of the trip. All our trips are designed to be beginner friendly!

This question comes up a lot with our guests and the answer is always "Yes indeed, tips are highly appreciated :)" Think of it just like any other service provided. Whether it be a server, valet, or adventure guide. Tips are something they rely on and greatly appreciate, and we thank you in advance.

Feet: Your feet are going to get wet getting in and out of the kayak. A pair of heeled sandals like Chacos, Tevas, or Keens are best. Aqua socks, water shoes or just a pair of sneakers you don't mind getting wet.

Body: Most clothes will work, but cotton is no fun when the temps are down. It does not insulate when wet. It is only best on the hot summer days. Merino wool or synthetic clothing is always great year-round. When in doubt: Layer, Layer, Layer! You can always take them off and stow them in a kayak hatch. Your guide will always have extra warm clothing if needed.

Head: Sunglasses, hats, visors, bonnets to shield from the sun. Hydration and a good hat that shades head, face and ears are the best prevention for sun stroke. Keep in mind that the sun reflects off the water, you’ll be glad you brought sunglasses.

We always say, "Kayaking is a water sport, you may get wet." Getting in and out of kayaks when docking or launching will be the most likely situation where you get a little wet. Occasionally a kayak will get hung up or need a lift over which may require getting out of your kayak and wading. Your guide is there to help.

It is very rare that a paddler- new or experienced- will tip over in the boats we paddle. Our boats are comfortable, sit on top fishing kayaks that give stability and a decent speed. . It CAN happen though. But remember, if you do tip you are wearing a lifejacket and your guide is a Kayak Safety and River Risk Management trained kayak guide with firsthand experience in water rescues. Listen to your guide at the moment and they will have you back in the boat in no time (this is all reviewed during the kayak 101 lesson on land). If the weather meets the standards where hypothermia is a concern we will end the kayak trip then and there and either start a fire or instruct you in the ways to warm up and get you back to shore and your vehicle. Again, trust your guide and you cannot go wrong. Safety is our #1 priority and we do not take it lightly.

Much of our mission at Merry Green Marvel is to usher folks from various backgrounds into the joys of the natural world.. We can go as fast or as slow as you feel comfortable. With a 5/1 guide to guest ratio you can feel assured you will not get left behind if you choose to take it easy. We are also very good at teaching the most efficient way to paddle your boat and have loads of tips to make it easy and fun. With beginners there are always moments of uncertainty when starting out , but within the first bit of our adventure you’ll be gaining confidence as you get to know your boat and it takes you where you paddle it! We are all out here to have fun and learn!

Our kayaks have a limit of 250-300 lbs. With our instruction you’ll find our boats reliable and stable.

Sure. We do provide you with a snack bar but you are more than welcome to bring your own food and drinks.(Absolutely no glass allowed).

We generally do not experience bugs during our tours. They can come out after sunset but usually not much of a factor in the times we’ll be paddling. You’re welcome to bring bug repellent if you wish. Please don’t spray it when other folks are near or on the boats.

Your guide is not there to exhaust you and we will paddle as a group at a "chill" pace. But if you simply cannot go on we are more than happy to hook up our specially designed tow rope to paddle you back to the Exit Point. A nice tip for your guide is appreciated if this happens :)

We will always find a bathroom before the tour begins and while on the water, just ask your guide. Your guide will have the necessary bathroom supplies. We practice Leave No Trace and we ask you to respect that and the planet we all share.

Yes to the boat ramp detailed in your confirmation email. We do not use shuttles. Our route circles back to our starting point.

Stuff happens, paying for something you don't do is silly so we try to make it simple. Any cancellation due to weather is a full refund. Any cancellation, at any time other than the day of the tour, is a full refund. Any cancellation or rescheduling of the tour on the day of the tour is a 40% charge. No refunds will be offered in the case of a no-show.

We love doing tours to make your gathering or event all the more special. We do private tours for individuals, couples, or small groups. Contact us directly at 608-632-6325 to discuss details. Depending on our existing schedule we may not be able to accommodate a private tour.

At this time we are not able to accommodate children under 14. We hope to be adding tandem kayaks to our fleet so we can get more children adventuring!

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