#92 – Kayaking the Missouri River
Missouri River, Missouri
Cost: $$
Good for: Seeing a different view of Kansas City.
Tip: Book your float in advance, they can fill up fast.
Kayaking the Missouri River is a humbling and rewarding experience. The massive river is a bit intimidating at first, but in the midst of its muddy waters, it is calm and serene.
Kayaking the Missouri River
For the past two summers, I’ve been wanting to go kayaking on the Missouri River. It never worked out, so this summer we made it a priority and I’m so glad I did. Q and I went with two good friends, Dave and Shelby.
We used the Kansas City Kayak and Canoe, a local rental company and had an awesome experience. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable about kayaking the Missouri River. The owner of the company has even kayaked the entire Missouri River, from North Dakota to the Gulf of Mexico in a six-month trip.
The Logistics
Everyone in the group meets at the end point, and KC Kayak and Canoe guides pick everyone up. You are then shuttled to the starting point, given some safety tips and sent on your way. Our whole group included about 15 other people whom we did not know, but it was never an issue. As you begin paddling, you can stick with your people and avoid the others if you’re antisocial.
While the Missouri River seemed a bit intimidating a first, the water was extremely calm. There were no rapids to navigate, you simply had to avoid the bridges and barges.
We did a 15-mile float, and got to see so much. On our route, we floated right by Kaw Point, multiple bridges, huge barges, Berkley Riverfront Park and the downtown Kansas City airport. On the stretch by the airport, two planes circled and landed extremely close. So close, we thought they were going to land on the river. The views of the Kansas City skyline are pretty awesome from the river too.
It was a bit of a long float, but afterwards we gained our strength back with Slap’s BBQ and beers. xx, Libbie.
