Watch our ride with Wildman Ranch - and excuse the Happy Landing logo (that was my original blog concept). 

white water rafting 

Menomonee Falls, WI   

In my opinion, the Midwest has very little nature activity to do in comparison to the coasts, but there is always something if you're up for it! Labor Day Weekend we decided to take advantage of our Groupon and have it translated from the 4 night adventure activity to White Water Rafting.

It's my second time at Menomonee Falls for this activity and I absolutely looovee it! It's always worth that 5 hour drive from Chicago and we've managed to keep it as a day trip (just be sure to have at least two drivers).

• When: Summer/ Time of day: I've only done afternoon raft rides, but that is when the water is warmer and the tide current is better. I would definitely recommend doing this activity in at least 80-90 degree weather because you are going to get soaked and be wet for a while.
• Cost: Groupon or $50-70 per person
• Who: Kosir's Rapid Rafts or Wildman Ranch. If you're looking for more of a thrill I would go with Kosir's Rapid Rafts, they keep it to the raft you're on, instead of two rafts following you down the fall, which decreases the speed/rapid volume. Wildman Ranch is a bit bigger and a lot more organized so it's good to take large groups or families and if you want it just as a solo raft then I believe it's called "The Wild Ride" at Wildman Ranch.
• Duration: Most of the time you'll be out on the river for a total of 2 to 2.5 hours and then a bus ride and getting all geared up, etc for a total of 2-3 hours just at the location site.
• Tips: obviously bring an extra pair of dry clothes, bathing suit or dri-fit spandex, water shoes or sneakers, a go-pro (so you can somewhat re-live the experience), towels, plastic bag to keep your wet clothes in and facewash supplies (the river isn't the cleanest so just be sure to wash up after)
• My experience: The back of the raft does all the powering, so if you want to get a workout in sit there. Middle of the boat is the safest - less likely you'll be thrown off and less paddling you have to do. The front of the boat is most fun for us and it's also called "riding the bull". It's definitely not the safest and it's the hardest to lock yourself into the raft (with your weight) but you control the steering and you get hit the most by the rapids. My husband wanted to kill me at first for volunteering to sit in the front, but afterwards he wanted to do it again. It's truly such an awesome and thrilling experience so go for it! Also, either at the end or the beginning, most guides will give you some free time to dip into the lake for a swim. Each time, I jump right in - it's very refreshing in the scorching hot and sunny weather.

In terms of falling off, don't really worry. The first time I went with Kosir's the guy in the back did fall off, the rapid hit us pretty hard and we're sure he wasn't locked in properly. He was also the one with a go-pro so it was interesting to watch his experience go under-water. He did seem pretty terrified after we rescued him as he was down under for a bit, but he was able to warm up again and go for a second round. 

When I was in the front of the boat with Wildman Ranch's guide, I didn't lock in my feet properly (because there's not much you can hold onto aside from your weight) and the tide pushed me off my seat. I fell into the raft though because you will land in whatever direction your weight is placed so make you sure you put it all in the direction of the raft. My husband helped me plop up quickly back onto my seat and I enjoyed the rest of the ride!

So don't be afraid it rarely happens and there's a great rescue team for when it does. The guides are probably some of the most fit people you'll ever see, jogging over cliffs and swimming through the rapids (I'm not even exaggerating) so you're in good hands. They'll walk you through everything. You'll be good just enjoy it :)