A Few Hour, or Days..

Monona offers a whole new perspective of the Madison area when you trade two wheels for the water. From peaceful paddling routes to lively lakeside destinations, Lake Monona and the Yahara River system create the perfect setting for a day—or full weekend—on the water.

Getting out on the lake is easy, whether you’re bringing your own equipment or renting for the day. At Olbrich Park, visitors can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Olbrich Park Boat Rentals and launch directly into Lake Monona. After your time on the water, the nearby Olbrich Biergarten offers the perfect place to relax with a drink and take in the lake breeze.

If you have your own gear, there are plenty of convenient launch points. Motorless boats can be easily put in at Schluter Beach or Frost Beach, while larger boats can access the water from Lottes Park Boat Launch, Winnequah Trail Boat Launch, or Tonyawatha Park.

Once you’re on the water, the options for exploration are nearly endless. From Olbrich Park, paddlers can head toward Madison and enter the Yahara River, where the experience becomes something truly unique. The route winds past the stunning Olbrich Botanical Gardens—offering rare views from the water—and the iconic Thai Pavilion. Continuing north, you’ll reach the locks at Tenney Park, which provide access into Lake Mendota for those looking to extend their adventure.

Heading the opposite direction offers a completely different vibe. Traveling downstream from Lake Monona, boaters can make their way toward Upper Mud Lake, where the Yahara River opens up to a popular gathering spot affectionately known as “Gilligan’s Island.” This sandy hangout draws boaters looking to relax, socialize, and enjoy the water.

For those with more time, the journey can continue even farther. The Yahara chain of lakes connects seamlessly, allowing boaters to travel on to Lake Waubesa, Mud Lake, and Lake Kegonsa. Along the way, lakeside dining makes it easy to turn your outing into a full-day experience, with stops like The Green Lantern Restaurant on Lake Waubesa and Springers on Lake Kegonsa offering classic waterfront meals.

Back in Monona, the Yahara River corridor near Grand Crossing Park has quickly become a hub for dining and gathering. Boaters can dock nearby and enjoy a meal or drink at several waterfront spots. Buck & Honey’s features a spacious patio overlooking the river, while Breakwater offers a lively atmosphere with multi-level outdoor seating, boat access, and seasonal live music. For those looking to turn their time on the water into a group experience, Paddle Pub Madison also departs from this area, offering a unique, captain-led pontoon outing complete with music, games, and space for up to 16 guests. For something lighter, Forage Kitchen serves fresh salads, grain bowls, and house-made kombucha.

Just steps away, visitors can also grab ice cream from Below Deck Concessions or recharge with specialty coffee, ice teas, or lemonades from True Coffee Roasters—perfect for a quick stop before heading back out on the water or winding down for the day.

For those looking to turn a day on the lake into a full weekend getaway, Monona offers convenient and comfortable lodging options nearby. The Avid Hotel, located next to Grand Crossing Park, provides a modern stay within walking distance of dining and river access. Just a short distance up the Yahara River, the Country Inn & Suites offers additional amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and even fresh-baked cookies and popcorn in the lobby—plus a walking path that connects back to Grand Crossing Park.

Whether you’re paddling through scenic waterways, cruising the chain of lakes, or tying up for a meal along the river, Monona makes it easy to experience the outdoors from a different perspective. With accessible launch points, unique routes, and welcoming places to stop along the way, it’s a destination that invites you to slow down, explore, and enjoy life on the water.