Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee

Restoring America's Greatest River

BOATING

The Lower Mississippi River is the backbone of the world’s largest inland navigation system. While huge tow boats push grain, fuel and other commodities along the river day and night, non-motorized craft are becoming a more frequent site.

Lower Mississippi River Water Trail

Large wooden canoe with 7 people paddling down the Mississippi River

The River Gator Lower Mississippi River Water Trail was created to serve the growing number of canoeists and kayakers.

The guide:

  • Provides a mile-by-mile description of safe paddling opportunities from St. Louis, Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana (mouth of Mississippi).
  • Was compiled by John Ruskey, operator of the Clarksdale, Mississippi-based Quapaw Canoe Company, with support from the Lower Mississippi River Conservation Committee and the Walton Family Foundation.

Paddling Races – Canoes & Kayaks

Two kayakers on the water

Beyond the new guide, groups of paddlers have sponsored annual races in Memphis, Vicksburg and elsewhere. These events have attracted hundreds of paddlers. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation of these events recently. For more information, visit these websites:

Navigation & River Gage Resources