Canoeing Times on the South
Fork of the Maquoketa River
Jackson County canoe enthusiasts can take advantage of a well-developed
and maintained canoe trail system. The canoe trail begins at the town of
Canton. The canoe ramp is located on private property and people are
encouraged to contact the owner when using the ramp. Canoes and a shuttle
service are also available for rent from a private company located at Canton.
From Canton the route extends 17 miles to Joinerville Park, however a
number of public canoe accesses exist before Joinerville so the length of the
trip can be shortened.

Listed below is the approximate amount of time it takes to canoe from place to
place. Canoe times can vary depending on river level, weather, and the skills
of those canoeing.
Click here for information on the Timber City Adventure Race (canoe, bike, run)!
From
To
Approximate Time
Pictured Rocks (Jones County)
Hwy 136 (Jones County)
3 hours
Hwy 136 (Jones County)
Lower Supples Bridge (Jones County)
45 minutes
Lower Supples Bridge (Jones County)
Canton
2 hours and 15 minutes
Canton
Buzzard Ridge
45 minutes
Buzzard Ridge
Millertown Bridge
1 hour 15 minutes
Millertown Bridge
Royertown Bridge
45 minutes
Royertown Bridge
Chennelworth
30 minutes
Chennelworth Bridge
Morehead Bridge
30 minutes
Morehead Bridge
Joinerville Park
1 hour
Canoeing past Joinerville is NOT advised there is no more access points before Lakehurst Dam.
Jackson County Map
Before you Paddle - Prepare to Paddle Safely!
1. Wear It! Life jackets only work if you are wearing them. When selecting a life jacket make sure if fits properly, you are
using it for its recommended use and it is U.S. Coast Guard Approved.

2. Know Before You Go! Know the waters you plan to float and check the weather. Let others know about your float trip
by leaving behind a float plan.

3. Pay Attention! It's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you encounter powerboats. STAY ALERT
and be ready to move out of danger. STAY VISIBLE because others may not see you.

4. Never Boat Under the Influence! While paddling can be easy, it's no excuse to paddle under the influence. Paddling
a kayak or canoe requires a responsible, safe, and aware operator. Don't blur that operation with drugs and alcohol. A
group of paddlers is safer, but this should not become a drinking party!

5. Plant to get Wet! Expect the unexpected and know what to do if you find yourself IN the water. Stay calm and with the
boat. If you fall out in current, keep your feet on the surface and swim to shore.

6. Hazards - Paddling hazards include rocks, strainers, low-head dams, heavy current, lightning, and other bad weather.
Strainers can be anything that blocks passage but lets water filter through. Low-head dams are tough to see from upstream
and very difficult to escape. Both strainers and low-head dams are regarded as "drowning machine."These hazards are
dangerous - avoid them, portage around them, and ALWAYS SCOUT AHEAD!

7. Keep It Stable! Leaning shoulders outside the edge of the boat can lead to a capsize. Keep your weight low and
balanced over the centerline of the boat.

For more information:
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
American Canoe Association
United States Coast Guard