Greet 2019 with a paddle down the Current or Jack's Fork rivers in Ozark National Scenic Riverways/NPS

For the third straight year the staff at Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Missouri State Parks will be opening the new year with a paddle in the park and would like you to join them.

The Winter Paddling Clinic and First Day Float is scheduled from December 30 through January 1. The Winter Paddling Clinic will be held at Echo Bluff State Park on December 30 and 31 in conjunction with their New Year’s Eve Celebration. On January 1 paddling club members from St. Louis, Springfield, and Kansas City will celebrate the New Year with a float on the Current or Jacks Fork Rivers and will gather at Current River State Park for a bonfire and warm beverages.

All are invited to this free paddling clinic and join the paddling clubs for float opportunities on New Year’s Day. Those who would like to make lodging reservations at Echo Bluff State Park can call their reservation desk at 844-322-3246.

Ivan Bartha will be the keynote speaker at the paddling clinic. Ivan is the owner of a Minnesota-based outdoor leadership training and consulting business. He is a multi-discipline American Canoe Association instructor and instructor trainer, and former chair for the ACA Midwest Division, comprising 11 states in the upper central region of the United States

Millions of floaters enjoy Missouri rivers each year from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Experienced paddlers continue to visit the rivers in September and October, but paddling activity can continue during the winter months with the right equipment and a few simple precautions. Winter paddling offers several advantages, including the opportunity to experience solitude on the river and the ability to more easily view wildlife and other river features often blocked by heavy vegetation during the summer.

For more information about the Winter Paddling Clinic and First Day Float opportunities, contact Ranger Dave Tobey at 573-323-8093 or [email protected].