Trips
Please Note: Paddling times may vary based on river conditions, weather and the paddler’s ability. View skill level guide below trip list.
Chain of Rocks Hazard/Portage
Just north of St. Louis, a set of rapids known as the Chain of Rocks stretches across the river. The Chain is no longer entirely natural. A low-head dam ...
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Louisiana to Paddlers Pass
Enjoy the mighty Mississippi by experiencing Paddlers Pass. This unique area between two islands provides perfect water for practicing your paddling skills. It also provides a nice...
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Dupont Access to Louisiana
Take time to explore and have a picnic lunch on the large sand island. This trip is an all day adventure. ...
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Saverton to Louisiana
This trip will require shuttling to Saverton boat ramp. An adventure awaits on this pristine section of trail that encourages adventure and exploration. ...
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Louisiana to Clarksville
Make it a day or stay overnight. Paddlers can explore the lower section of the water trail, have a picnic lunch on an island, and experience locking through at Locks ...
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Silo Access to Calumet Creek
Enjoy the beauty of Silo Access Area as you launch your boat at the launch ramp. Paddle downstream to Calumet Creek, across to Middleton Island, and return to Silo Access ...
No commentMDC Calumet Creek Access to Silo Access
This trip will take you up river to explore Calumet Creek, Silo Access Area and the Pharrs Island complex. Pharrs island has numerous backwater areas within the island interior for ...
No commentLouisiana to MDC Calumet Creek Access
This trip will take you on an adventure down river ending midway between Louisiana and Clarksville. This paddle includes visits to Noix Creek, Illinois Slough, and Paddlers Pass. The paddle ...
No commentTwo Rivers Marina
Trip Length: 1-2 hours At the Two Rivers North Access Area and follow the shoreline downstream to Two Rivers Marina. Here you can visit the marina store for supplies. Once ...
No commentLouisiana Riverfront to Salt River
Trip Length: ## Paddle upstream staying close to the Missouri shoreline to the Salt River. Explore this beautiful Mississippi River tributary before returning to the Louisiana...
No commentLouisiana Riverfront to Noix Creek Paddle
Trip Length: 1-2 hours Paddle one mile downstream staying close to the Missouri shoreline to Noix Creek. Paddle up Noix Creek and experience this beautiful scenic area before returning to ...
No commentTed Shanks Conservation Area to Horseshoe Lake Area
Trip Length: 1-2 hours A safe place to practice paddling strokes and rescue techniques, Horseshoe Lake provides the perfect area for early season exploration and adventure. Ideal paddling times...
2 CommentsCalumet Creek Natural Area
If you are looking for a nice creek paddle with little current this is the paddle for you. Enjoy a leisurely one mile paddle up to the Calumet Creek Paddle-In ...
No commentTed Shanks Conservation Area to Salt River Access
Trip Length: 1-2 hours Level: Beginner The Salt River Access is typically slow unless there have been heavy rains or water release from the Mark Twain Lake Dam. Put in ...
No commentGosline Access Area – Gosline Island
Trip Length: 1-2 hours Level: Beginner This trip is sure to delight paddlers with diverse wildlife and unique river features. The normally quiet slough is perfect for...
No commentSkill Level Guide for Mississippi River Kayakers
Beginner- Can swim a short distance. Generally uses a recreational style kayak and paddle (adequate flotation/bulkheads strongly recommended). Has less than 2 years experience with less than 10 days per year of paddling. Can paddle for about 5 miles, one and a half hours with a 10 minute break. Understands and uses basic paddling equipment. Performs basic paddle strokes (forward, backward, turning, stopping) and is able to maneuver a kayak efficiently and effectively on calm protected bodies of water. Paddles in mild warm weather. Has limited moving water experience. Also recommended: able to perform a wet exit.
Intermediate- Beginner skills plus generally uses a touring style kayak with adequate flotation/bulkheads and deck lines. Has more than 2 years experience with greater than 10 days per year of padding. Paddles continuously 4 hours with 15 minute breaks every 45 minutes, for distances of 5-10 miles. Has the ability to self rescue or to be rescued with assistance. Has the skills and gear to kayak in moderate current, light wind and waves, and cool water. Predicts and prepares for changing weather. Anticipates the need for extra food, water, dry clothing and wears appropriate clothing for cold water immersion. Has awareness of big river hazards: currents, eddys, whirlpools, locks, wing dams, strainers, motor boats, ferries and barges. Understands river navigation markers.
Advanced- Intermediate skills plus more than 3 years paddling with more than 25 days per year. An ACA L3 skills course is recommended. Is able to paddle for 8 hours with a 15 minute break every 45 minutes for greater than 10 miles. Has equipment, gear and experience to kayak in cold water, high water, waves and windy conditions. Has the ability to rescue other kayakers. Is trained in first aid and CPR and carries a first aid kit. Is experienced with communication and GPS/navigation equipment. Carries backup equipment and emergency gear. Is skilled at map, chart and compass reading.