The Apple River is a scenic waterway in northwestern Wisconsin, flowing approximately 70 miles from its headwaters in Polk County southwestward to its confluence with the St. Croix River. As a major tributary of the St. Croix, it forms part of the larger Mississippi River watershed. The river winds through a diverse landscape of forests, farmland, and rocky bluffs, offering paddlers a variety of experiences from calm flatwater to exciting rapids.

Paddling opportunities on the Apple River range from leisurely floats to more challenging whitewater runs. The upper sections near Amery provide a mix of quiet pools and gentle riffles, ideal for beginners and families. As the river approaches Somerset, it picks up speed and features more frequent rapids, culminating in the thrilling Apple River Canyon stretch. This canyon section, with its steep walls and Class II-III rapids, offers a short but exhilarating ride for experienced paddlers.

The overall difficulty of the Apple River varies from Class I to III, with most sections suitable for intermediate paddlers. However, the canyon and falls areas require more advanced skills and should only be attempted by those with proper whitewater experience. Spring typically offers the best water levels for paddling, especially for the more challenging sections, while summer is popular for tubing and leisurely floats.

Notable access points include Star Prairie Village Park, County Highway E near Amery, and various locations around Somerset. The river passes through or near several small towns, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer excursions.

Historically, the Apple River played a crucial role in the region's logging industry, with timber being floated downstream to sawmills in Amery. Today, it's a popular recreational destination, known for both its natural beauty and its summer tubing scene near Somerset. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bald eagles, herons, and a variety of fish species. The river corridor also supports diverse plant life, including hardwood forests and riverside vegetation.

Key landmarks include the Amery Dam, where a portage was installed in 2010 to facilitate easier navigation, and the Apple River Canyon, a highlight for both scenery and paddling excitement. Safety considerations are particularly important in the canyon and falls sections, where scouting rapids and being aware of water levels is crucial. Paddlers should also be mindful of the popular tubing areas, which can become crowded during summer weekends.

For those interested in multi-day trips, the Apple River offers opportunities to combine paddling with camping, especially in its lower sections as it approaches the St. Croix River. However, paddlers should be aware of access restrictions and plan their trips accordingly.

Overall, the Apple River provides a rich and varied paddling experience, offering something for everyone from casual floaters to whitewater enthusiasts, all set against the backdrop of Wisconsin's beautiful northwoods landscape.