Grand River Locks Access

**Location & Facilities**
Grand River Locks is located off Lower Locks Road near Montello in Marquette County, Wisconsin, on the Upper Fox River. The site features two large parking areas and an ADA-accessible pathway that crosses the former lock channel and connects to a fishing pier on the river. A portable restroom is available during spring and summer months.

**About the Fox River**
The Fox River is a large, meandering waterway (Stream Order 7) with an average flow of 2,347 cubic feet per second and moderate gradient of 2.4 feet per mile. This section flows through scenic wetlands and upland habitat, including areas adjacent to the Fox River National Wildlife Refuge. The Upper Fox River historically featured seven stone locks (each providing approximately 5 feet of lift) to aid navigation around the river's winding course. While most locks are now inoperable, the Eureka lock system remains functional, making portions of the river accessible to both motorized and non-motorized boaters.

**What to Expect**
The Grand River Locks site serves as a good access point for paddlers and boaters exploring this scenic stretch of the Upper Fox River. The river's steady flow and moderate gradient make it suitable for various skill levels, though paddlers should be prepared for the river's characteristically crooked, winding nature. The scenic surroundings and historic lock infrastructure add to the paddling experience along this 202-mile waterway.