THE SKUNK RIVER WATER TRAIL - STORY COUNTY, IOWA
The South Skunk River rises in southeast Hamilton County and flows about 265 miles southeast to the Mississippi near Burlington. Story County's Skunk River Water Trail encompasses most of the river within the County, from mile 246 in Story City's South Park to mile 212 at the Schreck Access, on Hwy 210 near Cambridge.
BE AWARE: Bridge construction at 150th Street and at Hwy 30 may prevent the use of those river segments. Construction at Hwy 30 is ongoing; Construction at 150th Street will begin as the weather warms this spring. Check the Story County Road Closure/Construction Project Map.
WATER TRAIL AND RELEVANT STREAM GAUGES:
Information about the Water Trail and Greenbelt can be found at MyCountyParks.com and at StoryCountyIowa.gov.
Local Stream Gauges include:
Most paddlers would consider the minimum recommended flow above Ames and Ioway Creek to be somewhere near 125 cfs, but those who don't mind stepping out for the riffles may enjoy paddling the pools at much lower flows. The maximum recommended flow will depend on the knowledge and skill of each paddler. (See River Gauges and "Flows and Float Times" at Iowa Paddling Resources for additional guidance.)
Note that while much of the river between Story City and Ames is bordered by a public greenbelt, most of the adjoining land is private property!
Please respect private property and Leave No Trace!
MAPS:
IADNR's Expedition and Fishing Guide, Story City to Burlington (pdf)
Google Map of Skunk River Accesses and local greenbelt trails
Story County's Geographic Information Services also provides a Parks & Recreation Finder.
CANOE & KAYAK RENTALS:
Ames Outdoor Gear rents canoes, kayaks and SUPs May through September
ISU Rec Services rents canoes, kayaks and more to students, staff and community members
Water Quality Efforts:
The South Skunk River is on Facebook! Check it out at https://www.facebook.com/southskunk