Upper Iowa River
Located in northern Iowa just south of the Minnesota border is the Iowa River. This section of river was featured in National Geographic Magazine and listed as one of the top 100 adventures in North America. Much of your float will take place along 200 foot high bluffs, with beautiful old bridges crossing the river above your head. This is a perfect destination if your looking for a little adventure. Canoeing the Upper Iowa River is truly a one of a kind experience. Randy’s Bluffton Store provides kayak rentals and shuttle service. For more information, click here.
Maquoketa River
A trip down the Maquoketa River will take you past Pictured Rocks Park, and several other scenic locations. This is a more relaxing, day in the sun type of float. The landscape along the Maquoketa River is beautiful Iowa forest, and towering rock bluffs. There are several sand bars along the river which are perfect for stopping for picnics or taking a dip in the river to cool off. This is a family friendly type of float, the current is usually mild, and the river is not too deep so its a great place the kids to swim. Need a shuttle service or to rent a kayak or tube, click here.
Catfish Creek
Catfish Creek is located within the Mines Of Spain Recreation Area in Dubuque. The creek winds its way through the park and is a popular destination for kayakers. The creek offers unique views of the rugged forest, limestone bluffs, and in many areas is completely shaded under a beautiful canopy of trees. There is a launching dock found within the park and no shuttle service is needed. There is no current on the creek so you can just paddle up and back at your leisure. This area is gorgeous and is perfect for those new to kayaking.
Des Moines River
Located on the West/Central side of Iowa, this river is a perfect location for your next float trip with plenty of scenery, including rock bluffs, wildlife, tall bridges and the river has plenty of sandbars for your picnic needs. Canoeing this river will also take you past the beautiful Ledges, of Ledges State Park. My favorite part of canoeing the Des Moines river is all the twists and turns you face going down stream. These turns in the river add the excitement of “what’s around the next turn”. No matter if your kayaking, tubing or canoeing a trip on the Des Moines river wont disappoint. Seven Oaks Recreation is located in the area and offers a full shuttle service as well as kayak, canoe, and tube rentals. For more information, click here.
Charles City Whitewater Park
Marty Colbert
Iowa’s first whitewater park opened summer of 2011. The course has three distinct features playable at multiple river flows and skill levels. Kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, tubers, fishermen and all river enthusiasts will enjoy this park on the Cedar River in heart of downtown Charles City. No charge and accessible year round. Tube and canoe rentals from area businesses area available by contacting the Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce. Adjacent Riverfront Park boasts a beautiful setting with stone amphitheater, naturalized play area, disc golf course, picnic shelters, labyrinth, public art and trail.
For more Incredible Adventures in Iowa, click here.