WHO WE ARE
Meet the crew of experienced paddlers, philosophizing naturalists, professional guides, and hammock-swinging river folk.
At Broken Paddle our crew takes paddles and shapes them around the four seasons on the waters, in the valleys, and atop the bluffs of this beautiful region - sharing with you every exquisite stream and path we find.
Wiley Koehler
Although new to Broken Paddle, Wiley has been on the hunt for nature, outdoor experiences, and adventure from an early age. From kayaking and canoeing the waters of Door County, Wisconsin, snowboarding various peaks of the Western United States, to managing a water sports company on Florida's Gulf Coast, Wiley's goal has always been to enjoy the outdoors and help others do the same along the way. A resident of Winona, MN, Wiley finds joy in introducing Broken Paddle's guests to the Driftless Area and all of the outdoor opportunities it offers.
Certifications: Credentialed United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner, Red Cross First Aid / CPR *Voted Most Likely to Overthink a Gear Purchase*
Espoir DelMain
Espoir was raised between the twin cities, the northwoods, and the south shore of Lake Superior. She is so delighted to be living and working in the Driftless region farming and doing paddling tours. She’s guided youth trips for over 5 years in northern Minnesota and Voyageurs National Park and has spent over 200 nights on the Mississippi River between the headwaters and Cairo, IL. By way of central PA and Senegal she carries a curiosity for those around her and the places and spaces she is grateful for the privilege to inhabit. You can find her cooking, biking, watercoloring or scheming up the next spot to explore more.
Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, *Resident Camp Counselor
Drew Savage
Minnesota born and raised, Drew grew up exploring the woods and paddling the water around the twin cities. Fascinated by the natural world he spends most of his time outdoors floating and foraging.
Likely yearning for a conversation about milkweeds or river inhabitants.
Certifications: ACA River Kayaker, First aid/CPR. *Member of Source to Sea Class of 23’
Taylor Treinen
Raised in the waters and woods Taylor knows his way through these winding streams and towering bluffs, learning the ropes of climbing and paddling since a young age, he has never stopped exploring. Taylor states, “We all have a limited time on this floating rock, so take on new experiences, travel around the globe, eat bizarre foods, be kind to others and do what feels right. You can know I will."
Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, Professional Climbing Instructors Association Base Manager Certification, *Licensed Night Cap Provider.
Cole Johnson
Cole was raised along the banks of the mighty Mississippi and he’s developed an innate love and respect for the water that flows through his veins. He is thrilled to be guiding kayak tours which allow him to share his love for our local rivers and waterways. Cole enjoys mountain biking, plunging into cold streams, and looking for River Agates. In the off-season, you'll find him carving through snow-covered slopes, teaching the art of downhill skiing.
Certifications: First aid/CPR, *Member of Silly Geese Association
Laura Gould
After a childhood exploring the banks of the Milwaukee River, Laura's been traversing new trails on land and water ever since. She enjoys picking wild berries, baking cookies, unearthing freshwater mussels from the river depths with her feet and stopping to smell the wildflowers. You'll be sure to hear Laura's excited cry around each new bend of the backwaters as you encounter natural wonders.
Certifications: ACA River Guide, First aid/CPR. *Founder Radish Bowler League
ALEX KEILTY
Growing up in the BWCA, guiding canoe and kayak trips, Alex likes too many sports and can’t decide about whether to bike, climb, paddle when the weather is good in Minnesota. He has guided since the beginning with Broken Paddle and knows some of the tricks to summon the “freshwater whales.” He will share with you if you know of any hidden gravel roads.
Certifications: First Aid/CPR, WFR, ACA Level 3, Swift Water Safety Tech, *Blacklisted Espresso criminal
JAY EIDSNESS
With an ever seeking eye for adventure and a thirst for an unmarked trail, Jay is no stranger to the alchemy that makes Broken Paddle Guiding a star along the northern reach of the Great Mississippi. While he is most comfortable with mud between his toes and cheap sunglasses shielding his eyes, these days his focus is on the business side of Broken Paddle. You can see Jay’s influence on the eagle’s nests dotting the paddle routes, the pain reward of the inclines and descents on the cycle routes, and the wordsmithing of the liability waiver.
Certifications: First Air/CPR, *Founder, Monster Pancake Association
MICHAEL ANDERSON
A keen observer of the great outdoors, a full on bird nerd, and in between days on the river you can find Michael with his partner Lauren on their farm just outside of town, Dancing Gnome Farm, where they grow delicious organic vegetables. Michael grew up playing in the Northwoods where he cut his chops as a guide and outfitter, worked on the Pacific Crest Trail in the Cascade Mountains, traversed the highlands of Guatemala, and fought wildfires in Northern Minnesota. Having kayaked the Mississippi River in Minnesota every month of the year he knows the rhythms of the Big Muddy in all its seasons.
Certifications: First Aid/CPR, MN Master Naturalist, Aquatic Invasive Species Detector *Member Vegetable Connoisseur Society
KAYAK TOURS
Paddle in the remote depths of the flooded forest. Here you will find yourself under a towering forest canopy, gliding over feeding fish, beavers and otters, all in a place of tranquil beauty.
PADDLEBOARD TOURS
Explore the beautiful, remote, and scenic waters as you would on our kayak tour, but this time from our new and fast growing Stand up Paddleboard Tours. Change your perspective from sitting on, to standing atop the water – you’d be surprised at the difference you see and feel!
FAT BIKE TOURS
Free your winter doldrums and ride the hottest sport out there! Experience the frozen forests and the unfrozen Mississippi River as we bike the banks and the woods of the big river. We’ll hop off the saddle at a riverside brewpub for a pint to round out this epic tour.
“Five of us went on the Flooded Forest Tour. Our guide, Avery, was top-notch! He helped us learn to kayak, we were all beginners and he made it easy! When we had a little weather roll in, he handled it so calmly and professionally, I was really impressed.”
— Mary S.