The Wisconsin River starts as a small stream near the Michigan border and flows south, then west for 430 miles before joining the Mississippi near Prairie du Chien. Many other smaller rivers and creeks join it along the way and make it a major American River. With 26 hydropower dams along its course it is called “The hardest working river in America.” This section is loaded with sandbars and islands. You will pass the historic city of Portage, beautiful scenery in a wild setting, and have many opportunities to spot wildlife.