Missouri
Current River: Akers to Pulltite
About this paddle route
The Current is fed by some of the largest springs in the country, which is why it floats all summer while other Ozark rivers drop to gravel. Akers to Pulltite is the classic beginner day: clear water, easy riffles and gravel bars for lunch. It runs through Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first national park unit created to protect a river system.
A spring-fed Ozark float on water that runs clear and cold all summer, past Cave Spring to the Pulltite landing. The easiest good day on this list.
Highlights
What earns the trip
- Cave Spring, a cave mouth you can paddle a canoe into, sits right on the river
- Spring-fed water stays clear and cold through August
- Pulltite Spring is a short walk from the take-out landing
- Part of Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the first protected river system in the park service
Stops
- 1
Akers Ferry Lower Canoe Access
Put-in with an outfitter and campground on site.
- 2
Pulltite Campground
Take-out landing, with the spring a short walk away.
When to go
Best time to go
April through October. The springs keep it floatable when other Ozark rivers are not.
Planner estimate for the mapped line: 37 min
Before you go
Know before you go
- Weekends in summer are extremely busy on this section. Go midweek if you can.
- The water is spring-cold even in midsummer. Dress for immersion in spring and fall.
- Glass containers are prohibited on the river.
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