10 Amazing Family Canoe Trips

One of the unique aspects of Florida is how quickly you can escape the urban centers and find yourself immersed in the region’s stunning natural ecosystem. And nowhere is this more true than on the Loxahatchee River paddling trail. Wending for 8.5 miles through a cypress forest and a mangrove estuary, the trail is a relatively easy one-way paddle, and a more ambitious out-and-back adventure.

Consisting of 23 rivers and streams, along with 59 lakes and ponds, the Northern Forest Canoe Trail runs through four states, covering 740 miles. That’s a bit much for a relaxed family outing, so we suggest an afternoon exploration of Vermont’s Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll find ideal habitat for migratory songbirds. It’s also a refuge for Great Blue Heron, so expect frequent sightings.

The Big River is a tidal river, meaning its waters flow in accordance with the nearby ocean tides. Still, it’s the lush wetlands, the diverse wildlife including otters, beavers, bobcats, foxes, and seals, as well as over 130 bird species, that are likely to capture your attention. Just be aware of that tide, and try to plan your paddle to take full advantage of its natural ebb and flow, and if you’re feeling a little tired, remember that you don’t have to go the full distance.

History buffs will love following in the paddle strokes of Lewis and Clark, as they float past old homesteads and fur trading sites. This is a fantastic introduction to multi-day canoe camping, offering the opportunity to pitch a tent in the footprints of the renowned explorers. And everyone will appreciate the relaxed nature of this 41-mile segment (though you can go for less!), which features no rapids, but more than makes up for it with quintessential big sky scenery.

The undammed Chattooga boasts some of the east’s most spectacular wilderness scenery, as well as some of the most coveted whitewater this side of the Mississippi. Less ambitious paddlers will find plenty of places to wet their paddles: Section II consists primarily of calm water, with some Class II rapids offering lessons in reading water currents, identifying eddies, and honing river navigation skills. This is the perfect stretch of water for families with some paddling experience and a desire to take it up a notch.

Considering that National Geographic magazine designated the Upper Iowa River as one of America’s 100 Great Adventures, it’s no surprise it attracts plenty of visitors. But if you can avoid peak weekends, the chances of having this stunning, limestone bluff-studded waterway to yourself (or nearly so) are high. The entire river cuts through 140-miles of geologically unique and majestic Driftless Area, but we’re particularly fond of the 5-mile segment between Chimney Rock Road and Bluffton Road.

While the Upper Rio Grande (hot tip: say “GRAHN-day,” rather than “GRAND”) is famous for its raucous rapids, the middle is a much calmer affair, and generally better suited for family outings. Considering its proximity to Albuquerque, the remote-feeling nature of this section is all the more remarkable. As is the volcanic topography that defines the region, and the peaceful stands of cottonwood trees.

Tracing the US-Canadian border in eastern Maine, the St Croix serves up a diversity of water types, including the novice-friendly section between Vanceboro and Little Falls. Designated primitive camping sites dot the shore, and an abundance of smallmouth bass, as well as landlocked salmon and brook trout, mean the possibility of dining on fresh-caught fish cooked over an open fire is high. Bald eagles, moose, and white-tailed deer are frequent visitors to the St Croix’s shores, so be sure to pack your binoculars