Paddling Iowa

Newly revised guide to the best paddling trips in Iowa, contains trip ideas, and environmental, geological, and historic points of interest.

River people know Iowa as the sweet stuff in the middle - a verdant land of sinuous streams snaking between the continent's two greatest rivers. Since 2004, this book has helped thousands of new and seasoned paddlers discover new waters, plan trips, avoid hazards, understand fluctuating water levels, navigate shuttle routes on roads and trails, and find canoe rentals. Discover Iowa's rivers, and you are guaranteed to look at Iowa in a whole new light!

Iowa is a verdant land of sinuous streams snaking between the continent's two greatest rivers. Since 2004, this book has helped thousands of new and seasoned paddlers discover new waters, plan trips, avoid hazards, understand fluctuating water levels, navigate shuttles on roads and trails, and find rental boats. Maps and narrative are accurate, and you'll find stories that enrich your understanding of Iowa's rivers. Discover Iowa's rivers, and you are guaranteed to look at Iowa in a whole new light!

Paddling Southern Wisconsin will guide you down some of the state's most alluring rivers, immersing you in its shifting landscape and infinite beauty.

Detailed maps, photography, trip descriptions, water conditions, wildlife, history

“Iowa? I could have sworn this was heaven.”—from Field of Dreams This lively guide—the definitive comprehensive travel guide devoted entirely to Iowa—highlights the events, attractions, lodgings, restaurants, history, and culture that make the Hawkeye State great. Iowans have always known how wonderful their state is; now everyone else can experience the best that this under-appreciated gem has to offer. From railroads and the state fair to art museums and wineries; from cycling to golf to spelunking, Iowa won’t fail to surprise and delight travelers. If you like spending your vacations away from crowds or exploring beautiful, perfect natural landscapes, Iowa might be just what you’re looking for. Author Lauren Rice traveled throughout her home state to find the best it has to offer. Everywhere she went she learned something new—a fascinating bit of local history, a little restaurant serving great homemade food, some terrific tucked-away place to visit—and there are countless other treasures just waiting to be discovered. As with all Explorer’s Guides, handy icons point out places of extra value, kid-friendly sites and activities, and lodgings that accept pets. Detailed maps and an alphabetical “What’s Where” section help you plan your trip. With this book in hand, travelers will get off the beaten path and into the heart of an authentic, unspoiled place.

With nearly fifty featured trails, Iowa's verdant countryside is an excellent place for a hike, and this guide covers the state's varied terrain with a focus on the state parks and recreation areas.

From Chicago's magnificent lakefront to the mountain trails of the Shawnee National Forest, no state has more varied terrain for the cyclist than Illinois. Large, full-detail maps guide you confidently on city streets or prairie back roads, and concise, entertaining trail descriptions make your bicycle adventure come alive. Includes 60 rides for cyclists of all ability levels, tips on where to find water, snacks, lodging, repairs, fascinating notes that help you appreciate the nature and history along the trail, and much more.