The Global Paddling Community

From 1784 to 1812, fur trader, surveyor, and mapmaker David Thompson explored western North America. His field journals provide the earliest written accounts of the natural history and indigenous cultures of what is now British Columbia, Alberta, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Thompson was the first person to fully chart the Columbia River, and his wilderness expeditions have become legendary. Jack Nisbet tracks the explorer across the continent, interweaving his own sharp observations with Thompson’s historical writings.

Paddle your canoe alongside two modern day geologists as they explore Meriwether Lewis' "seens of visionary enchantment" through Montana's most scenic and least disturbed segment of the Lewis and Clark trail. Share Lewis' romantic view of the river valley, but broaden your vision to include an appreciation for the manner in which geologic processes have conspired to lay the foundation for its stark beauty, its rich history, and its flora and fauna. Consider why the rocks used by early Indians to hold down their teepee skins are unlike any that crop out anywhere within hundreds of miles; why the spectacular White Cliffs stretch of the river is so much more rugged than other stretches; and why rapids with ominous names like "Deadman Rapids" developed to bedevil river travelers. Magnificent Journey uses nontechnical language to tell its story in a way that will appeal to Lewis and Clark enthusiasts, river travelers, and anyone else who shares an interest in the natural and cultural history of the Missouri River Breaks of central Montana.

Montana's Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River is a one hundred forty-nine mile wilderness stretch of the Missouri River that has changed but little since Lewis and Clark first saw it in 1805. In addition to the river corridor's incredible beauty, it played a major role in the settling of the West, and there are scores of important historic sites along its banks, including Indian encampments, Lewis and Clark campsites, steamboat landings, fur trading post sites, and abandoned homesteads. The Upper Missouri is the premier section of the Lewis and Clark Trail, which stretches from St. Louis to the Pacific coast.

Canoeing the Missouri River is a happily written guide for people who dream of a long trek some day on the exciting and historic Missouri River. Written as both an active guidebook and an armchair read, Keith Drury makes a river trek come alive through the pages of his own day-by-day journal and in his detailed guidebook advice on the towns, re-supply points, and people along the way who help canoe trekkers. There is plenty of practical advice for the novice in his chapters on equipment and tips and hints, plus he sprinkles throughout the book just a pinch of philosophy -- not so much as to be an overbearing professor, but just enough to get the reader to think. The tale is also honest in outlining the difficulties of such a trek, and the emotional challenge of the "middle miles malaise." It is a great read for both the person planning to actually take a Missouri River trek, or for the armchair enthusiasts who enjoy reading trekking literature.

This comprehensive guide to paddling the Missouri River is invaluable to paddlers of all skill levels. Kayaker and map-maker David Miller spent three summers paddling the mighty Missouri from the headwaters in Montana to St. Louis and, from the seat of his sea kayak, mapped the entire route with the use of his GPS system. An experienced paddler, Miller offers up vital information for anyone seeking to float even the shortest stretch of the MissouriÂ’s storied waters. This guidebook offers excellent information on every stretch of the river, including river hazards, campgrounds, potable water, and attractions, as well as historic sites.

This is the first comprehensive guide on Idaho rivers which covers the state's flatwater and easy whitewater river runs. There are no death defying rapids here, just great laid-back trips down easy-going streams, and fun whitewater on exciting but safe and sane rivers. All the runs can be done in an open canoe, but are also suitable for kayaks, inflatables and drift boats. The text is supplemented with exquisite photography and beautiful, easy-to-use maps.

Volume four of the Up the Lake with a Paddle series features information on the lakes and surrounding places of interest that cover the following drainages: West Fork of the Carson, where it flows through Charity Valley and nearby Carson Pass; the mid portion of the North Fork of the Mokelumne River within the forested confines of Eldorado National Forest; and finally, the granite encased reservoirs that border Carson-Iceberg Wilderness. All but a few of these bodies of water lie at elevations well above 5,000 feet earning them the title, Lakes of the High Country. In addition to the choicest paddling locations in the high country of the Sierra, this book includes information on the history, geology, plants, birds and animals of each of the regions. Expanded In the Eddy and Paddle Notes sections range from hikes to practical information on poison oak you may be itchin to know.

Up The Lake With A Paddle, Volume 3 is the latest in a series of guidebooks that provides enthusiastic, knowledgeable advice for canoeists and kayakers wishing to explore the lakes located within the Tahoe/Sierra region.Author Bill Van der Ven concentrates on the seldom-described lakes of the Grouse Ridge Region that make up a portion of the Tahoe National Forest. The guidebook features maps, routes and local lore on the natural and human histories of each paddling location. Van der Ven provides clear, comprehensive descriptions suitable for experienced and novice paddlers, as well as for those paddling alone or with a family. His knowledgeable advice on ways to make a paddling trip a more memorable accomplishment is presented in a humorous, upbeat style.As a bonus, Van der Ven provides the reader with a comprehensive glossary that includes websites referring to subjects described in the text. An annotated bibliography, along with a list of paddle sports dealers, schools and organizations devoted to paddle sports, completes this useful book.

Novice and experience boaters alike will find this guidebook geared to paddling in a canoe or kayak an essential resource for enjoying the beautiful lakes, rivers and reservoirs of the Lake Tahoe region. Up the Lake With a Paddle, Vol. 2 provides the canoeist and kayaker with easy-to-read maps and highlights of more than 25 paddling areas in the Sierras, all within comfortable driving distance from the greater Sacramento area. Nature lovers will delight in the author s insightful descriptions of local flora, fauna and geology that truly capture the mood of each lake or river. Take this book along on your paddle and make your trip a memorable one!

Volume 1 of the Up the Lake with a Paddle series is the primary guidebook for paddlers looking for places to paddle within the Sierra Foothills and the Sacramento Region. The regions covered in this book are a paddler's paradise with spectacular lakes and scenic, quiet rivers. For those looking to plan a weekend getaway for two or a fun-filled family paddle this book is a must. The second edition now includes more information on the history, geology, plants, birds and animals of each region. Including GPS waypoints for paddle locations and more "In the Eddy" and "Paddle Notes," all the items the fans of this popular series enjoy.

Acclaimed outdoors author Tom Stienstra knows where to find the best of California’s lakes and rivers, from the wild and pristine Smith River in the Redwood Empire to the clear waters of Big Bear Lake, only two hours from Los Angeles. Moon California Recreational Lakes and Rivers leads outdoor enthusiasts to the best spots for boating, fishing, and water sports in the Golden State. The fourth edition of this definitive guidebook includes detailed descriptions of nearly 400 lakes and rivers, as well as many top-10 lists, such as the Top 10 Places for Water-Skiing. Complete with detailed regional maps as well as directions and ratings for each location, Moon California Recreational Lakes and Rivers provides readers with first-rate expert advice and all the necessary tools to head outdoors.

All new 14th Edition. Complete guide to over 430 lakes in California with detailed maps and current information. A must for campers, RVers, fishermen, boaters and anyone who loves the outdoors. Campgrounds for tents and RVs, marine facilities, types of fish, picnic sites, hiking and bicycle trails, equestrian facilities, swimming, waterskiing, resorts, phone numbers and all the details you need to know about these lakes are included.

Explore the coastal lagoons, bays, and esteros from the Russian River to Monterey Bay, plus inland Tahoe, Mono, and Pyramid Lakes with this book's 24 kayaking adventures. Most are daytrips, but some can be done as overnights. Accurate maps show the water routes and distances you'll paddle, where to camp, and how to get to the put-in and take-out points. For kayaking newcomers there's information on kayak rentals and guided trips. Newly updated.

Explore the diverse natural wonders of sixty-five of Northern California's finest lakes, streams, and coastal waterways. From the snowcapped Sierra Nevada to the broad Central Valley to the rugged Coast Ranges, Paddling Northern California takes you on a journey through the region's most spectacular landscapes. Included are waterways known for wonderful scenery, good fishing, relaxation, historical importance, and marine wildlife. Inside you'll find: an overview of what to expect and how to prepare; detailed maps showing access points and routes; information on each waterway's character, difficulty, and the best times to paddle; lists of local paddling organizations and information resources.

Guide to Sea Kayaking in Central and Northern California lets kayakers of all skill levels explore 40 trips, providing more than 100 route alternatives, in some of the most spectacular and wildlife-rich marine habitats on the planet. Designed for beginner, intermediate, and advanced kayakers, this guide gives mile-by-mile descriptions of the routes, including prominent landmarks and interesting sites along the way. Detailed maps as well as overviews of Central and Northern California's weather, tide and current patterns add to the thorough coverage of paddling this spectacular coastline. Whether exploring quiet, bird-filled estuaries or protected bays, navigating rock gardens or exposed Pacific headlands, this book is a must for all sea kayakers.