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Access Site WI

North Bend

Black River

Source: wisconsin_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: Melrose, WI
County: Jackson County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 44.08951199, -91.11544209
N608 N Bend Dr, Melrose, WI 54642, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
Black River near Galesville, WI Same River 8.8 mi away
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Black River Ds ST Highway 54 at Black River Falls, WI Same River 19.4 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Black River
6 runs (4 nearby)
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
I-II Upstream from here (29.5 mi from take-out) F) Hatfield Hydro to Hall's Creek Landing (3.9 miles)
4.2 mi 10 ft/mi
II-III(IV) Upstream from here (32.1 mi from take-out) E) Hatfield Dam to Power Plant (3.2 miles)
3.1 mi 20 ft/mi
I-III Upstream from here (39.3 mi from take-out) D) Neillsville to Lake Arbutus (12.5 miles)
12.2 mi 8 ft/mi
I-II Upstream from here (48.7 mi from take-out) C) CTH.H to Neillsville (7.6 miles)
7.6 mi 8 ft/mi
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
The North Bend boat ramp provides public access to the Black River, a major waterway (Stream Order 9) that flows through Jackson County. This is a solid launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboat users looking to explore one of Wisconsin's significant river systems. The ramp has been improved and is open for public use, though amenities may be limited—visitors should plan accordingly for restroom facilities.

The Black River is a substantial river with an average flow of approximately 10,541 cubic feet per second and a gentle average gradient of 1.5 feet per mile, making it suitable for a range of paddling abilities. Depending on water conditions and your destination, you can paddle upstream toward scenic sections including gorges and boulder gardens, or downstream toward various other access points. Popular nearby paddling distances include 2.4 miles to the North Arbutus Boat Landing and 4.8 miles to the West Arbutus County Ramp near Hatfield Dam, with some sections featuring rapids including Class 3 whitewater.

For current conditions, facility details, and complete information on amenities, contact the Wisconsin DNR or check their boat access website at dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/boataccess/.