Canoeing is a fun, easy watersport that everyone in the family can enjoy. Take your family on a fun adventure with this list of places to go canoeing in the Midwest.
When the summer heat’s upon us, everyone is looking for ways to enjoy the warmer weather while also keeping cool. Canoeing is a great way to do just that.
With dense forests and an abundance of rivers and lakes, the Midwest offers some of the best canoeing locations in the United States. Here are seven of the most beautiful places to go canoeing in the Midwest.
Places to go canoeing #1:
Boundary Waters Canoe Area – Minnesota
Boundary Waters Canoe Area is located in the Superior National Forest in Minnesota. There are over 1200 miles of canoe routes at Boundary Waters. With canyons, cliffs, islands, and beaches this is one of the most beautiful areas to go canoeing within a National Forest.
Canoeing is a fun, easy watersport that everyone can enjoy. Take your family on a fun adventure with this list of places to go canoeing in the Midwest.
Places to go canoeing #2:
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – Wisconsin
Canoeing along the coast of Lake Superior promises to be one of the most thrilling destinations in the Midwest. The Apostle Islands area consists of 21 islands, most of which you will be able to reach with a canoe.
The highlight of this trip is canoeing through the sea caves along the coastline. The caves were created from waves and ice over thousands of years. The sandstone caves are only accessible from the water. If you aren’t an expert canoer, you may want to join a tour or hire a guide for this trip.
* Family Friendly Tip: The Apostle Islands Lakeshore has frequent closures due to the periodical harsh conditions of the area. Always check the site before heading out on your adventure.
Places to go canoeing #3:
The Little Miami River – Ohio
Canoeing on the Little Miami River is a fantastic experience for the whole family. Children as young as three and pets are allowed to accompany you on as you sail down the Little Miami River.
The River is over 100 miles long with many places where you can begin and end your trip. Make sure to pack a picnic so that you can enjoy lunch and a take swim during your trip.
Places to go canoeing #4:
Turnip Rock – Michigan
Turnip Rock is a rock formation with a small, skinny base and a large top covered in grass and trees. Its unique shape and the surrounding Lake Huron make this a stunning canoeing location.
Typically this trip takes about 4 hours and is 7 miles long. Once you arrive at Turnip Rock, you’ll be able to ditch your canoe and explore for a while.
Places to go canoeing #5-7:
Eleven Point National Scenic River, Current River, and Meramec River – Missouri
The Eleven Point National Scenic River meanders through the Mark Twain National Forest and surrounded by stunning foliage and the breathtaking Ozarks. During your trip you’ll pass gentle rapids. This river is perfect for a short day trip or an overnight adventure as there are several campgrounds along the river.
* Family Friendly Tip: Read about a family’s experience on the Eleven Point National Scenic River.
Closer to St. Louis, you’ll find the Current River and the Meramec River. Both are beautiful places to camp, canoe, and spend time together as a family.
Canoeing is a wonderful way to experience the great outdoors with your family and friends. No matter your age or skill level there is a river or lake just waiting to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.
