The Best River Tubing In The Midwest Might Be Hiding In Minnesota

One of Minnesota's favorite summer activities is enjoying the water. When it's hot, a lot of people find the nearest pond, lake, or river to cool off in. Now, one hidden Minnesota spot has just been named one of the best in the country for some aquatic fun.

There are some well-known places to go river tubing in the region, with the Apple River being one of the most popular. But several lesser-known places also offer great, relaxing summer floats.

READ MORE: You Can Visit 3 of America’s Best Beaches in Minnesota This Summer

Beyond the Apple River: Lesser-Known Float Spots

I'll be honest, I'd never heard of this river before, or had any idea it offered one of the top tubing experiences in the country. But it was just nominated in USA Today's Readers' Choice Awards for best river tubing.

Located in the lower southeast corner of Minnesota, not too far from Rochester, is the Root River. This scenic river runs about 80 miles long, starting near Chatfield and joining the Mississippi River near La Crescent.

Get our free mobile app

The Root River is particularly popular for outdoor recreation, offering scenic journeys for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. USA Today says, "With oak and hickory tree-topped bluffs gradually giving way to rolling pastures, Minnesota's Root River offers floaters a wealth of scenery."

Root River Outfitters is the company that runs the tubing business along the river. They offer rentals for tubes, canoes, and kayaks, along with a shuttle service included with all rentals.

A Top Tubing Destination in the Midwest

The Root River is the only location nominated in Minnesota, and one of only two places in the Midwest up for a spot in the final top 10 list. Voting for the best river tubing in America is open until Monday, June 2, with the winners announced on Wednesday, June 11.