10 Amazing Family Canoe Trips

Route: Little Gabbro Lake

Little Gabbro Lake comprises just a fraction of the water coursing through the one million-plus acres known as the BWCAW (aka “Boundary Waters”). We like Little Gabbro because it boasts stunning wilderness, amazing fishing, endless opportunities for deeper exploration, and perhaps most importantly, reliably calm waters.

Route: Pruitt Landing to Hasty

Slicing through the Arkansas Ozarks, the Buffalo National River is one of the lower 48’s few remaining undammed rivers. It’s also a fantastic place to get a taste for family canoeing, thanks to forgiving water, incredible scenery, and numerous day-trip options. The most scenic, family-friendly stretch is Pruitt Landing to Hasty; you’ll pass numerous bluffs and tantalizing swimming holes, so be sure to leave yourself time for a dip

Route: Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge

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.

Route: Big River Estuary

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.

Route: Fort Benton to Coal Banks Landing

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.

Route: Section II

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.

Route: Chimney Rock Road to Bluffton Road

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.

Route: Algodones to Corrales

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.

Route: Vanceboro to Little Falls

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.