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The Highway D Bridge access point in Montello offers a convenient launch for exploring Buffalo Lake and the Fox River system in Marquette County. Located near Packwaukee, this site provides both a concrete boat ramp and sandy shoreline access, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and small motorboats. The site is situated where paddlers can easily access Buffalo Lake or venture beneath the Highway D Bridge to continue downstream toward Endeavor, Wisconsin.
From this launch, paddlers have multiple route options depending on their skill and time available. You can paddle around Buffalo Lake itself, or for more adventurous trips, go under the Highway D Bridge and continue southwest on the Fox River toward Endeavor. An alternative is to portage over Highway 22 to access the broader Fox River system, which eventually leads to Lake Puckaway. The adjacent Fox River National Wildlife Refuge (1,054 acres of wetland and upland habitat) makes this an excellent area for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
The access area includes amenities such as restrooms and drinking water (seasonal), picnic facilities, and fishing opportunities. Before visiting, check the Wisconsin DNR website for current facility status, as some amenities operate seasonally. This location is well-suited as a starting point for day trips or longer paddling adventures on the Fox River system.