- Estimated Cost: $300
- Deposit: $70
- Max Trip Size: 12 people
Paddle the Upper Buffalo National Scenic River in April! This is the nation’s first national scenic river, and it does not disappoint.
We will drive down to Ponca, Arkansas, and camp along the river. Thursday or Friday we will paddle from Ponca (or Steel Creek, depending on water levels) to Kyle’s Landing. This is about ten miles and takes 4-6 hours. The river is Class I-II depending on water levels. 500 foot cliffs tower overhead.
Other activities in the area include miles of hiking trails as well as zip lines (zip line cost estimates do not included but run around $100/person). Climbing is also a possibility. Spring wildflowers should be in bloom, and early spring bird migration should be happening as well.
Schedules will be flexible other than carpool needs and the paddle. Campground is first come, first served but will fill up by the weekend. The outfitter does not require payment in advance but does require a card and will charge if cancellations occur within two weeks of the trip – the deposit is to cover this cost and will not be deposited until the time of the trip.
Estimated costs:
Campground: $20/night per site
Gas: $105 per car
Paddle: Boat rental $65-70 depending on solo or tandem plus $40 per car for the shuttle (you can bring your own boat but please note that aluminum canoes are not allowed)
Zip lines (Buffalo Outdoor Center or Horseshoe Canyon Ranch): $100
Meals will be responsibility of each participant
Please note, the drive into the campground requires a high clearance 4WD vehicle. Distance between St. Paul and Ponca AR is 700 miles each way. Once we have the participants figured out we can meet to discuss logistics.