Scenic Clough Island: Half-Day Paddle Itinerary
Activity: Half-Day Excursion around Clough Island
Launch Point: Munger Landing
NWT Route Highlight: Clough Island Circuit but starting at Munger Landing
Distance: 5-6 miles
Time: 3-5 hours (depending on pace, wind, and weather conditions)
Experience Level: Intermediate; includes some open water exposed to wind and motorized boat traffic
Looking for a memorable way to explore the St. Louis River Estuary National Water Trail (#SLRENWT)? A half-day paddle around Clough Island offers a beautiful, wild escape just minutes from downtown Duluth, Minnesota. It’s an inviting adventure, but one that deserves thoughtful planning. Portions of this route include open water that can be windy and is frequently used by motorboats, so paddlers should stay cautious, flexible, and aware of changing conditions.
Along the island’s shoreline, you’ll often find calm stretches perfect for taking in the scenery. With expansive open-water views and a sandy spot to pause for lunch, this 5–6 mile loop is an excellent outing for kayakers, canoeists, and stand-up paddlers with some experience on bigger water.
Whether you're exploring in your own craft or renting gear from Spirit Lake Marina, this itinerary offers a rewarding and safe day on the water.
The above map was created on Google Maps and outlines a potential trip around Clough Island. The gold stars indicate Munger Landing and Spirit Lake Marina as potential launching point. The gold star on Clough Island is a pause point with a sandy beach, great for stretching your legs or enjoying lunch!
Your Route: A 3–5 Hour Excursion Around Clough Island
1. Launch from Munger Landing or Spirit Lake Marina
Image of sandy beach perfect for launching your canoe, kayak, or SUP at Munger Landing.
Your adventure begins at Munger Landing, a convenient access point with parking, a porta potty, and a sandy beach launch area. Push off from the shoreline and begin paddling east toward Clough Island. If you need gear (kayaks or canoes) Spirit Lake Marina provides easy rentals and direct access to the estuary within the Riverside Neighborhood.
2. Paddle the Perimeter of Clough Island
Circle Clough Island at your own pace, taking in beautiful views of both Minnesota and Wisconsin shorelines. The estuary’s shifting water, wildlife, and spacious channels make this loop both peaceful and dynamic. You may even notice small stands of manoomin, or wild rice, swaying in the wind.
Be prepared: parts of the route include open-water paddling, where wind and boat wakes can increase difficulty. Staying flexible, checking forecasts, and using good judgment are essential.
3. Lunch Break at the Southern Tip
Pull ashore at the island’s southern edge, an ideal resting spot with a sandy beach and picnic table await. Enjoy a snack, take in the sweeping views, and stretch your legs before beginning the final leg of your paddle.
Resting Location Coordinates: 46°41'46.8"N 92°11'07.1"W
4. Complete the Loop and Return to Munger Landing
After your break, continue along the island’s shoreline until you reach the final stretch back toward your launch point. The return offers gorgeous views of the estuary, Spirit Mountain Recreation Area, and plenty of chances to spot birds, fish, and other wildlife.
Planning Notes & Safety Considerations
This route includes open water that is exposed to wind and commonly used by motorized watercraft. Paddle with caution and plan ahead.
Check weather conditions, water levels, and wind forecasts before launching.
A permit is not required for trailers in Minnesota.
Always carry a PFD, drinking water, sun protection, and a dry bag with essentials.
Need Gear? Rent from Spirit Lake Marina
If you don’t have your own kayak or canoe, Spirit Lake Marina offers convenient rentals—giving you quick access to the river and a smooth start to your adventure.
This drone imagery is of Spirit Lake Marina, an incredible resource for gear rentals and on-the-water access. In the top left of this image lies Clough Island, to the right you can see the US Steel clean up efforts that were completed in 2024.
