Explore the backwaters and fall colors of the Mississippi River with a National Park Service ranger as your guide!

This guided paddle on the Vermillion River will take you through a unique portion of this national park. Park rangers will point out some areas that are great for wildlife observation, such as bald eagles and river otters, but this program will showcase the beauty of the changing of the seasons demonstrated by the beautiful colors, sights, and smells of fall.

• Canoes, kayaks, paddles, and life-jackets will be provided by the National Park Service.

• Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult in the same boat. A ticket must be purchased for each person.

• All attendees must weigh at least 30 pounds to fit our life-jackets.

• Attendees must be able to maneuver a kayak or canoe on the Mississippi River. We recommend that you have at least some paddling experience. (The Pickerel Lake Paddle Share station is a great alternative for beginners!)

• Unfortunately, we can't accomodate people who want to bring their own boats on this program. The boat launch is open for the public to use.

• Space is limited. If you can no longer attend, kindly cancel your order so that others may join. Thank you!

Due to the nature of this activity, in the event of severe weather the event will be cancelled and you will be issued a refund. You will be notified via email and phone call the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Safety Protocol:

• Social Distance: Keep a distance of 6+ feet from anyone who is not a part of your household at the event, including the park ranger.

• We encourage you to wear a mask when in close proximity to others.

• Avoid touching other participant’s equipment. We encourage you to bring your own hand sanitizer if needed.

• Sanitation: The boats, paddle, and life jacket will be sanitized prior to the event, with CDC-approved cleaning agents. Staff will sanitize the equipment for you after the event so it is ready for the next user.