This 3 hour intermediate class (pre-requisite required) will begin by picnic pavilion at the National Great Rivers Museum on the Illinois-side of the river, participants park their vehicles, and will then be shuttled to a launch point on Ellis Bay in West Alton, Missouri. Mississippi River Water Trail Association and Audubon staff will discuss water safety guidelines and review the basics to kayaking on Ellis Bay and the main channel of the Mississippi River. Participants and guides will then launch their boats and set off to paddle to the Melvin Price Lock-and-Dam. Session will be accompanied by a Riverlands environmental educator that can interpret and highlight the diverse wildlife that can be viewed along the Mississippi River. Group will lock through and pull out near the National Great Rivers Museum.

Pre-requiste required: Particpants must have experience kayaking on open water, AND/OR must have participated in a paddling program as part of the Riverlands Wellness Series or Mississippi River Water Trail program prior to this event.

Details:

• Ages 13+ (participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)
  
• Class limit: 20 participants per session
  
• Cost: $30
  

Weight Guidelines:

• Kayaks typically have a 300 lb limit
  
• If you weigh 260 lbs or more, please contact Lauren at lauren.haugen@audubon.org to ensure proper accommodations
  

What to Wear & Bring:

• Synthetic clothing only (no cotton)
  
• Closed-toe shoes required
  
• Sunblock and sunglasses recommended
  
• Hat encouraged
  
• Water for hydration
  

A perfect way to try something new, get outside, and experience the river from a whole new perspective.