Question 1

How long does a kayak trip or a tubing trip take on the river?

Accepted Answer

The best answer is that it depends on the kayaker/tuber. An approximate answer for kayakers is no more than 2-3 miles per hour during periods of low flow with active paddling, or less distance with intermittent paddling. A rule of thumb for tubing is a half- mile per hour during summer pool. Tubing trips should be short distances only. Caution is advised for all river users to assure that you can exit the river at your desired location given the changing currents in the river flow. Make sure you can recognize your desired exit location from the river. Tubers especially should be advised that there are submerged trees in and along the edges of the river that pose a special hazard for tubes.

Question 2

How do I know the distance between river access points and take-outs?

Accepted Answer

There is information available under the water trail tab on this website showing the distance from one public river access point to the next.

Question 3

Can I use a boat with an outboard motor on the river?

Accepted Answer

Maybe. It depends on the location, water level, boat and motor size, and public access. There are many shoals on Elk River that may or may not be passable depending on water level. There are a few areas where public access is available and an outboard motor may be utilized for short distances. Because there are so many variables, we do not try to provide an accurate response to this question. Generally speaking, there are numerous shoals in the river that are too shallow for even a trolling motor to power a jon boat through.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does a kayak trip or a tubing trip take on the river?

How do I know the distance between river access points and take-outs?

Can I use a boat with an outboard motor on the river?