Float on Reelfoot NWR
Reelfoot NWR is especially ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Reelfoot NWR does not rent canoes/kayaks, but offers guided canoe trips from March 16th through May on weekdays for groups of 8-15 people. Reservations are required, and it is highly recommended to make them 2 months in advance. Depending on age of group and trail preference, the trips last anywhere from 45 minutes to 3 hours. Please call 731-538-2481 and ask for Tara for availability and additional information.
Reelfoot NWR's Canoe Trails: (Scroll to bottom of page for maps)
Glory Hole Trail: The Glory Hole Trail is the longest of the three established trails on the Reelfoot NWR and is the only trail on the Grassy Island unit, which is open from Feb. 1st to November 14. This trail is ~ 5 miles long and will take around 3 1/2 hours to complete. A shorter version of this trail is often preferred by visitors, which winds around gorgeous cypress trees and is only 2 hours long.
West Boat House Trail: The West Boat House Trail, located on the Long Point Unit, is open from March 16th-November 14th. This is the best trail to take if you have young children. This trail is ~ 1.5 miles and takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Goose Pen Trail: The Goose Pen Trail, also located on the Long Point Unit, is open from March 16th-November 14th and offers a wide variety of views to enjoy. This trail takes you through a portion of Hackle Slough, where mature trees are overhead, narrow trails with cattails on either side, and open water with standing cypress trees. The Goose Pen trail is around 2 miles and takes around 1 1/2-2 hours to complete.
Visitors may bring their own kayaks or canoes to enjoy these trails on their own, but PLEASE remember that low water levels and growing vegetation will make canoeing/kayaking more difficult, therefore, we highly recommend to canoe during spring months.
IF you are canoeing on your own:
Have a float plan. Tell someone where you are going and what time you plan to be back. You may have little to no cell phone service on these canoe trails.
Take snacks and water.
Always wear sunscreen. It is highly recommended to wear a hat, sunglasses, and lip balm.
Bring binoculars and a camera.
Have a dry bag for personal items.
Always pick up after yourself. Do not throw trash in lake.
It is always a good idea to pack essential safety gear. (Ex. Bilge pump, whistle, compass, band-aids, bug spray, etc.)
It is always best to take canoe trips early in the morning. 1) More wildlife can be see. 2) In late spring, temps are always nicer early in the morning. 3) The refuge closes at sunset --you don't want to be rushed.
Dress in layers.
ALWAYS check the forecast/radar for storms and wind speed. Never canoe or kayak in windy or rainy weather.
Take note of landmarks while canoeing.
