Linn Grove to Peterson Iowa Canoe Trip 7-11-05

Little Sioux River on the Inkpaduta Canoe Trail

The river is higher than usual this July because of summer rains">

Linn Grove to Peterson Iowa Canoe Trip 7-11-05 Little Sioux River on the Inkpaduta Canoe Trail   The river is higher than usual this July because of summer rains, so there is still plenty of time to get some canoeing in before  the water gets too low. Starting out here, you can see the forested hills north of Linn Grove from the river perspective early in the morning. We rented a canoe from the J&K Dam Bait Shop, which is located on the north side of the Linn Grove Dam, and put the canoe in below that dam at the boat ramp.   Warning: we encountered some significant snags along the river between Linn Grove and Peterson, paddling skill needed. No white water on the Little Sioux, but still a challenge at times.   Digital photos by Lynn Graesing - contact webmaster@linngroveiowa.org for permission to use - thanks!   Eagles nest on south side of river not far from the Linn Grove Dam - There were mature eagles roosting in the tree below their nest. See the immature bald eagle on stump sticking out the water - apologies for picture quality - I only take my oldest digital camera out on the river. View from below the eagle's nest while in canoe. More eagle pictures here.   We encountered a large herd of cows who mooed endlessly at us before turning and running away.   Around each turn of the river the scenery is a little different. We followed blue herons who flew ahead of us for awhile, and also saw an otter, deer, ducks, and many birds. We didn't see another human for the entire trip on that Monday.   View of the first bridge outside of Peterson near Wanata State Park.     View of the canoe ramp at river access second bridge just west of Peterson where we disembarked. Thanks to my friend Cheryl Barglof for accompanying me on this jaunt.     J&K Dam Bait Shop arrived after a cell phone call from Highway 10 atop the bridge (for a decent signal) to pick us up. How's that for service? Canoe and gear plus shuttling rented for approx. $30 for the day. A good deal!     Total time on river in the lazy float mode with a 30" stop for lunch was 5 1/2 hours.