The Mississippi River Water Trail Association was established through the American Canoe Association to support and enhance the Mississippi River Water Trail and encourage community involvement.  

The Association showcases the Mississippi River as a paddling destination rich with cultural heritage, wildlife, natural areas, and history.  The Association will promote and encourage safe paddling opportunities on the Mississippi River.  Volunteers will provide support by maintaining trail rest areas, primitive campsites, and facilities to ensure quality recreational opportunities for paddlers.  

The Association will promote safety awareness and provide activities, events, and educational opportunities.  The water trail association will also facilitate collaboration with communities, organizations, and agencies to foster sound safety and conservation practices along the river. 

The Association has provided over 3,000 hours of volunteer service.  Providing technical support and working to clean up sites and maintain areas.

Paddle Your Way to a Healthier Lifestyle 

Paddling provides numerous health and fitness benefits including: overall body toning, weight loss, strength, flexibility, and stress reduction.  It is easy on joints and allows an individual to increase their endurance and stamina.  Paddling is a great aerobic workout and makes your heath and circulatory system stronger.


Fact: Kayak moving about 5 mph, requires about 0.1 hp of effort which will burn about 400 calories per hour; four hours of paddling is going to burn about 1600 calories!
Source: www.kayaklakemead.com