Upper Iowa River

Florenceville (Plumber's Park) to Kendallville

River Miles: 11.8
Counties: Howard and Winneshiek
Recommended Flow: 200 cfs - Bluffton guage

Review(s):

Submitted By: Nate Hoogeveen
AKA: Nate
Knowledge level of the area: Intermediate
Date of Paddle: 2002
CFS: 200
Recommended Craft: Recreational
Type of Water: Both slackwater and riffles, with a class I rapid.
Overview of this section: The bluffs on this stretch aren't as tall, but do rival the scenery of the famed Kendallville-Bluffton stretch. There's also a wonderland-type spring on this one, where three branches spill from a bluff before joining to gurgle into the Upper Iowa River. Lots of white pines hanging out over riverside cliffs. required to dodge rocks. Lots of pastures on this stretch, too.
Hazard and Rapids: A half mile or so past the spring you'll hit the rapid, with a couple chutes and some boat-handling skill. There's always the possibility of fences or snags (strainers, sweepers) in swift water to watch out for.
Camping?: Harvest Farms and Kendallville Park.
Other Launches?: Bridge Crossings: County A14, gravel road 370th Street. Harvest Farms has its own private takeout at mile 9 for those using their shuttle service or camping with them.
Places to rent or buy outdoor equipment: n/a
Other items of interest about this area: n/a
Overall opinion of this section: Great! Easily one of Iowa's top ten trips.

Recent River Level Readings - taken from NOAA

Location: Decorah