Nelson Trevino

Located on Highway 25 between Nelson, WI and Wabasha, MN, the Nelson Trevino access point serves as the upstream entry to the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This concrete ramp provides access to the Nelson-Trevino Canoe Trail, a 4.5-mile backwater paddling route designed for canoeists and kayakers seeking a more protected paddling experience away from the main navigation channel. The site includes basic amenities with picnic areas and restrooms available.

The Mississippi River at this location is a major waterway with substantial current—averaging 11.24 feet per second—and significant flow volume. Paddlers should be prepared for strong downstream movement, especially during high water periods. Those wishing to explore additional trails like the Finger Lakes Canoe Trail (approximately 8 miles downstream) will need to navigate the main channel and lock through Lock and Dam #4; first-time users should review the "Locking Through" instructional materials available from the refuge. Sandy camping beaches are available throughout this section of river on refuge lands at no charge.

This access point is ideal for paddlers seeking guided backwater exploration in a wildlife refuge setting, though strong current and commercial river traffic in the main channel should be considered for longer river trips.