The Missouri River flows through northern Missouri and is a popular site for canoe enthusiasts. It is a somewhat unpredictable river and levels can change drastically depending on the weather.
The Chariton River flows into Missouri from south-central Iowa and joins with the Missouri River in Chariton County. This is a scenic river with 105 miles available for recreational boating. Wildlife abounds along the shoreline and fishing is abundant.
The Cuivre River has opportunities for viewing scenic natural areas, for fishing and for boating.
The Locust River flows 17 miles through Linn, Chariton and Livingston counties. It is an unchannelized, meandering river.
Storms roll in fast in northern Missouri. Some may be accompanied by lightning, wind and hail. Tornadoes are possible as well. Storms may come in quickly and temperatures may change drastically. If you are canoeing in northern Missouri, be sure to bring rain gear and jackets because temperatures may fluctuate quickly. Fog is another weather hazard to be aware of. It can roll in quickly on the rivers, making navigation difficult.
Rivers in northern Missouri flow through beautiful wooded areas that provide scenic views. With such heavily wooded areas comes the potential for tree branches and debris in the water. Canoeists need to be alert to the dangers.
Silt is deposited in most of these rivers, which causes the water levels to change unexpectedly.
Watch for motor boats and barges as you canoe along the rivers. Avoid wakes, particularly from the barges, as they can pull your canoe underneath them.
When pausing for a picnic or a rest along the banks of rivers or on sandbars, be on the lookout for snakes including rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouth or water moccasins.
Poison ivy and poison oak are abundant along the shores of the rivers, so be on the lookout for those as well.
Along the banks of some Missouri rivers you will find small river towns. It is worth the time to stop and see the historic sites as well as artwork and local crafts.
Campsites, state parks and picnic areas are available along some waterways. Be aware of their locations for interesting side trips.
Because of the heavily forested areas along the rivers, much wildlife abounds. White-tailed deer, raccoons and even coyotes live in the woods in northern Missouri. River otters can be found in and around the water. Fish and birds are abundant.
