The Missouri Department of Conservation will host Float the Big Miss on August 23-24.

Have you ever wondered if you can canoe or kayak on the Mississippi River? This is your opportunity to float 13 miles on North America’s largest river. Participants will float, enjoy lunch on a sandbar, and learn from expert guides.

Navigating the river calls for skill and strength. This program is for experienced paddlers only, with a minimum of one year experience in paddling rivers such as the Current, Missouri, or Black. Participants MUST attend the Friday evening safety briefing covering navigation, river hazards, flows, and other important information. The float is a total of 13 rivers miles, the experience is entirely dependent on weather and river stages. Generally, the river flows at 5mph.

Personal flotation devices (PFDs or lifejackets) are required. Plan to bring your lunch, snacks, sufficient water, sunscreen, and water shoes (no flip flops) and appropriate clothing for a river float during the heat of August. Your gear should be light enough to be carried in your boat. A support boat will be present at all times.

The Float is Saturday, Aug 24 7:30am to 2:30pm. Meet at Red Star Access at 7:30am to shuttle to Trail of Tears State Park. Individuals bringing their own boats can drop boats off at Trail of Tears SP between 6:45-7:10am and then drive to Red Star Access to leave their vehicles and catch the shuttle.

Ages 16 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult within the same boat.

Float the Big Miss will take place on August 23-24. A mandatory safety briefing will take place on Friday, August 23, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center. The float will take place on Saturday, August 24, from 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Registration is required.

To register, call 573-290-5218.

For more information, visit Events | Missouri Department of Conservation.