Cloquet River
About
Through Superior National Forest and Cloquet Valley State Forest, this 100-mile river drops from Island Lake to the city of Cloquet at an average of 820 CFS. The upper 30 miles from Island Lake to Indian Lake run through wilderness requiring portages around impassable drops. Below Indian Lake, 35 miles of the best paddling offer Class I-II water through St. Louis and Carlton counties before the final 35 miles widen toward town. Optimal flows range from 300 to 2,000 CFS on USGS gauge 04023000, with Cloquet Valley Outfitters providing gear and shuttle services for the middle sections. The Indian Lake to Alden Lake stretch holds the most consistent Class II rapids and the clearest route through the state forest corridor.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.