A good, old-fashioned hike gives us just what we need when we want to spend time exploring Missouri’s forests, hills, and mountains. But what about when we’re yearning for some time on the water? We can go on a leisurely float or set off on one of the many water trails for an epic Missouri adventure. This paddling route, for example, boasts a ton of beautiful scenery and even a few surprises.
Paddling down the Jacks Fork River promises a unique glimpse at the crystal-clear water and the natural attractions along the shore.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph The Jacks Fork River is also popular for tubing in the summer. It’s the perfect way to kick back, relax, and enjoy the golden sunshine and the warm temperatures. And you won’t have to exert as much energy as when kayaking or canoeing.
The Bucks Hollow to Bay Creek Paddle Route along the Jacks Fork isn’t for the faint of heart. After all, it tallies 20.5 miles and is a pretty popular trail. Expect to see other adventurers along the way.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph The Jacks Fork River earns a spot on the top 10 most scenic places in the world to float. Don’t forget your camera.
However, if you’re looking for an all-day adventure - this one takes around 8.5 hours - you’ve just found it.
All Trails/Randy Murfin
Bring your own kayak or canoe or, if you don’t have one, check out several of the adventure outfitters nearby where you can rent one for the day.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
Paddle along the popular river route that will take you past hidden caves (keep an eye out as you’re paddling).
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
While you can’t paddle into the caves, you can get close enough to snap a few photos or peer inside from a bit of a distance.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
Pass chiseled cliffs and…
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
Pull over on a sandy area on the shore for a leisurely picnic (be careful you don’t trespass on private property). Just remember that whatever you carry in with you, take back out with you.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
Find river levels and more information on the National Park Service website.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
Have you gone paddling on the Jacks Fork River for a magical Missouri adventure? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For an outing of a different kind, set off on this 1.5-hour waterfall road trip in Missouri.
All Trails/Kathy Rudolph
The Jacks Fork River is also popular for tubing in the summer. It’s the perfect way to kick back, relax, and enjoy the golden sunshine and the warm temperatures. And you won’t have to exert as much energy as when kayaking or canoeing.
The Jacks Fork River earns a spot on the top 10 most scenic places in the world to float. Don’t forget your camera.
All Trails/Randy Murfin
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Address: Jacks Fork, Missouri, USA
