As I look out upon the snow on this really cold morning, I am thankful that my dog and I have a warm home, and soon I shall don my winter outerwear to take him for a walk. I have also been thinking about last winter and a float that my friends and I took in January of last year. We have decided to do it again this next January, and I urge diehard floaters like us to strongly consider doing the same. It is a great experience, and you will have the river virtually to yourselves. Here’s how it’s done!
Accommodations
You might be surprised to know that there are lodges, cabins and campgrounds that stay open during the winter season and that do offer floating for those of us who are true “river rats.” Contact some of these places – they do require reservations well in advance, because they do have to ensure that they are ready for you.
If you have a camper with heat capability, great! If not, pick a place with heated cabins or a lodge with comfortable rooms and dining nearby. While some brave souls actually tent camp in the winter months, I am not one of them. After a day on the river, I want reliable heat and a comfortable bed!
Gear
Think of all of the things you take for a spring, summer or fall float and just change out the clothing! You will want an insulated jacket, pants, boots, and gloves; you will also want a complete change of outerwear and socks, sealed in a plastic bag – you know the dangers of getting wet in freezing temperatures!
Rivers during winter months are not populated, and you can go a long way without seeing other people. Carry your cell phone in a water-tight container on your person in case of emergency. And don’t forget the sun glasses. There is nothing worse than floating on a sunny winter day, with the light reflecting off of the water into your bare eyes! If it is windy, you will also want to consider a ski mask, and hand and feet warmers will surely enhance your comfort!
Nature
One of the really cool things about a winter float is the chance to see wildlife so easily. Without cover of trees, tall grass and bushes, we were amazed at the number of deer, fox and wild turkey all along the banks. Last year I did not take binoculars, and that was a mistake I won’t repeat. We also saw occasional fishermen, and they seemed to be doing quite well fishing off of the banks. So, if you are inclined, don’t forget your fishing gear.
Last year, our float was two days, and it was enough to satisfy me for a few months until the beginning of spring. This year, we are planning on two floats – one in early December and another in early February. If you have not considered a winter float, now is the time to think about it. As long as your accommodations and gear are appropriate, you will experience Missouri Rivers in a whole new way!
We have a group of die-hard floaters that have been going on a December float for the past 34 years. As far as myself is concerned, I have only been going for about 26 years, as I am one of the younger ones in the group. This will be the 35th year of this annual float. We have been going on the Current River (for the most part) as there have been a few years here and there where the Meramac was floated. It is always the 2nd weekend in December and we have a blast! Many of our friends think we are crazy, but we just tell them, not to judge until they try it! We love it for the beautiful crisp air along with the wintry scenery and as you mentioned, we have the river to ourselves, for the most part. Oh …also ….we sleep next to a very large campfire, only way to stay completely warm and toasty! Thanks for the articles and website!