Your Guide to Planning a Paddling Trip

A great adventure doesn’t start when your paddle hits the water – it starts with a plan!

Whether you’re heading out for a quick afternoon paddle, spending the day exploring with friends, or trying a new stretch of our water trails, knowing what to expect before you go can make all the difference.

Before you grab your gear and head out, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Know Your Route

First things first: Where are you going?

Before getting on the water, know where you plan to start and end your trip. Think about how far you want to paddle and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you’re heading out with a group, plan the trip around the least-experienced paddler so everyone can enjoy the adventure.

Not sure where to begin? Explore The Water Trails to find ICON access points and start mapping out your next adventure. ICON’s network connects more than 150 miles of rivers and creeks across Central Iowa, giving you diverse options to explore.

And remember having a Plan B is never a bad idea. Knowing where you can safely exit the water or take a break gives you more flexibility if your plans change along the way.

Share Your Route

Once you know where you’re headed, make sure someone else does too!

Before leaving, share your route with a friend or family member. Let them know where you plan to start, where you expected to finish and approximately when you plan to return.

It’s a simple step, but an important one. Adventure is always more fun when someone knows where to find you.

Check the Weather – and the Water

If you’ve spent any time in Iowa, you know the weather can keep you guessing.

Check the forecast before your trip and continue paying attention to changing conditions while you’re outside. A sunny morning can look a little different a few hours later, thunderstorms, high winds, and extreme temperatures can rapidly change the river.

If severe weather or lightning develops, get off the water as soon as it is safe to do so.

Water conditions are not only affected by extreme weather. Recent rainfall can also quickly change river levels, currents, and visibility while bringing additional debris into the water. Conditions should always match your comfort level and paddling experience.

Pack Your Safety Gear

You can’t have a great adventure without the right gear. Before leaving home, make sure you have the essentials. Iowa law requires paddlers to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device and a whistle or other sound device.

Depending on your trip, you may also want to pack:

• Water and snacks
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• A first-aid kit
• A dry bag
• Your phone
• Maps or navigation information
• Weather-appropriate clothing

For more tips on getting ready for the water, check out more safety tips here.

The route is mapped. The weather is checked. Your gear is packed.

There’s only one thing left on the checklist: have fun!