The Expedition Database is a huge resource in planning
your journey down the Missouri River.
This page contains links to
blogs, websites, interviews, newspaper and magazine stories
and photos of past expeditions on the Missouri.
Expeditions are in descending order by year back to 1961
If you know of any not listed, please notify us.
2023:
Annie Balthazar paddled her Kruger Sea Wind canoe from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi river near St. Louis for a total of 68-days.
Photos below of Annie's journey.
Annie Balthazar paddled her Kruger Sea Wind canoe from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi river near St. Louis for a total of 68-days.
Photos below of Annie's journey.
2023
Steve Ohrt- Solo by canoe from Montana to St. Louis.
Steve's Blog and Photos Click
Below: Photos from Steve Orht's journey.
Steve Ohrt- Solo by canoe from Montana to St. Louis.
Steve's Blog and Photos Click
Below: Photos from Steve Orht's journey.
2023
St. Louis Bill Behrns- Three Forks to St. Louis.
Bill paddled solo his Clipper Sea-1 in 73-days from
Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis.
Below: A few photos of Bill Behrns journey.
St. Louis Bill Behrns- Three Forks to St. Louis.
Bill paddled solo his Clipper Sea-1 in 73-days from
Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis.
Below: A few photos of Bill Behrns journey.
2023
Tom Boyko began the journey at Three Forks with his son Jacob, who paddled with him to North Dakota. From there, Tom continued solo in his canoe.
Tom finished at the arch paddling with another 2023 alumni- Bill Cottrell on Aug 21st.
Tom's Q&A about his trip is found at LINK.
Photos below of Tom's journey.
Tom Boyko began the journey at Three Forks with his son Jacob, who paddled with him to North Dakota. From there, Tom continued solo in his canoe.
Tom finished at the arch paddling with another 2023 alumni- Bill Cottrell on Aug 21st.
Tom's Q&A about his trip is found at LINK.
Photos below of Tom's journey.
2023:
"Missouri Bill" Cottrell paddled solo from Three Forks, Montana to the arch in St. Louis. Bill did skip ahead and bypassed a few of the big reservoirs in North and South Dakota. After Bill finished, he paddled with Tom Boyko as Tom arrived in from Montana. The two meet up in Montana during their journey.
Newspaper story on Missouri Bill's Journey.
Photos below of Bill's journey.
"Missouri Bill" Cottrell paddled solo from Three Forks, Montana to the arch in St. Louis. Bill did skip ahead and bypassed a few of the big reservoirs in North and South Dakota. After Bill finished, he paddled with Tom Boyko as Tom arrived in from Montana. The two meet up in Montana during their journey.
Newspaper story on Missouri Bill's Journey.
Photos below of Bill's journey.
2023:
Mark Crance started in 2022 but ended in South Dakota for the season. He returned in June and finished up at St. Louis for a total of 120-paddling days.
photos below of Mark Crance.
Mark Crance started in 2022 but ended in South Dakota for the season. He returned in June and finished up at St. Louis for a total of 120-paddling days.
photos below of Mark Crance.
2023:
Warren Johnson departed from Ft. Benton and is headed to the Gulf of Mexico. Several years ago Warren and his wife Diane paddled from Ft. Benton to Florida.
Warren Johnson departed from Ft. Benton and is headed to the Gulf of Mexico. Several years ago Warren and his wife Diane paddled from Ft. Benton to Florida.
2022- One of the biggest paddling years on the Missouri River, including the MoRP Rendezvous in South Dakota with 100 paddlers from 21-states, a majority being past Missouri river through paddlers.
Connor Clevenger- 63 day descent from Great Falls, Montana to St. Louis. Following the completion of his journey, Connor joined the Rendezvous and paddled for a week with members of the MoRP.
Larry Boehmer - 82 day descent from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi river just north of St. Louis. Larry arrived at the start of the MoRP Rendezvous for the kick-off celebration before proceeding on.
Yankton Press News Story: HERE
Steve Snell - 88 days solo canoe trip from Three Forks, Montana to his home in Kansas City. This art professor painted images of the Missouri river during his descent. Snell joined up with the MoRP Rendezvous in South Dakota which
was very inspirational.
Kansas KSHB News Story of Expedition: Here
KCUR Article and photos of Expedition: Here
KQ TV Story on Steve: Here
Steve Snell's Website: Here (website includes all of his paintings.)
was very inspirational.
Kansas KSHB News Story of Expedition: Here
KCUR Article and photos of Expedition: Here
KQ TV Story on Steve: Here
Steve Snell's Website: Here (website includes all of his paintings.)
Dave Hillman: The only known Montana to the Gulf of Mexico paddle expedition during 2022.
Dave departed Three Forks, Montana on June 4th
and arrived at the Gulf of Mexico on October 5th for a total of 123-days! Dave joined up with the MoRP Rendezvous in South Dakota which was great to have him there.
Dave's Presentation on ZOOM- Part 1
Keith Forsythe, kayaked from Three Forks to St. Louis departing on June 1st and ending on July 31st for a total of 2-months on the river. Keith is a long distance hiker and opted to do a long paddle trip in 2022. He began his journey with paddler Larry Boehmer and later met up with paddler Kyle West in which he finished at St. Louis with.
Dave Haggard- Solo canoed from Three Forks, Montana to Columbia Bottoms, Missouri a few miles from the confluence with the Mississippi River.
Dave departed on May 20th and arrived on August 5th for a total of 77-days. Photo of Dave at Tobacco Gardens, ND enjoying a cold beer.
Mark Crance & Miriam Abraham departed Three Forks, Montana on July 22nd. Miriam dropped out once in North Dakota, and Mark continued solo until Bismarck, ND for the season. (In 2023, Mark completed the rest of the river solo to St. Louis)
Clinton Johnson - Solo SUP descent from Twin Bridges, Montana on the Jefferson river and continue down to the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Clinton bypassed Ft. Peck, Lake Sakakawea, and Lake Oahe, the 3 largest reservoirs on the Missouri due to persistent winds and bad weather. He continued to near Cairo, Illinois on the Mississippi to end his journey.
Buffalo Roamer Podcast Interview with Clinton: HERE
Linda Elder- Solo from Three Forks, Montana
to St. Charles, Missouri by kayak in 83-days from May 26th to August 17th.
2021: Graham Jordison: Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis.
Solo by kayak- 73 days.
Sierra Club Magazine article: Rolling Down the River.
KCAU Article Sioux City, IA Article: Nebraska Man Kayaking Down Mo
Channel 5 Kansas City Youtube news brife: CLICK
Photo by Patrick Tenny
2021: Jerry Bricker: Solo- Three Forks, Montana to Nebraska City, NE.
Jerry departed May 15th and arrived at his destination on July 23rd. Jerry had paddled from Nebraska City to St. Louis back in 2011, so this completes his journey.
Jerry's blog if full of details, images and insight:
BLOG
Jerry departed May 15th and arrived at his destination on July 23rd. Jerry had paddled from Nebraska City to St. Louis back in 2011, so this completes his journey.
Jerry's blog if full of details, images and insight:
BLOG
2021 -2022: US Marine Veteran Amanda Hoenes
and dog Hank paddled from Three Forks, Montana, to the Gulf of Mexico.
She departed on July 12, 2021 and reached the Gulf via the Atchafalaya River on Jan, 18, 2022 for a total of 190-days.
Springfield News Article and photos. HERE
Branson Mo graduate on canoe trip: HERE
Amanda recently published a book about her
trip which is entitled: Digging Deeper. Order BOOK
and dog Hank paddled from Three Forks, Montana, to the Gulf of Mexico.
She departed on July 12, 2021 and reached the Gulf via the Atchafalaya River on Jan, 18, 2022 for a total of 190-days.
Springfield News Article and photos. HERE
Branson Mo graduate on canoe trip: HERE
Amanda recently published a book about her
trip which is entitled: Digging Deeper. Order BOOK
2020- Blake Miller: Blake built his own rowing scull and rowed from Three Forks, Montana, departing on June 16 and finished at the arch in St. Louis on July 28th. Photos below by Blake Miller
|
Jonathan Wiley June 30 - November 2, 2020: Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. Wiley built and rowed an Angus Rowboat, and is one of four others who have recently rowed down the Missouri river. Photos by Jon Wiley. |
2020
Sean Trombley
This Michigan resident paddled from Three Forks to St. Louis by kayak.
Sean had an incident near Bismarck, ND where someone had stolen his pack guitar. Members of the Missouri River
Paddlers group pitched in and bought him a new one and it was FedEx'd to him along the river. That's what
river folk do!
Photo's below by Rob Kalthoff and Norm Miller
2020
Cameron Gelber & Shon Mackie
Three Fork, Montana to St. Louis
64-Days!
They departed paddling a Wenonah Itasca canoe which was damaged on Lake Sharpe and traded out for an aluminum canoe.
(Photo by Mark Fingerhut)
2020
Lucus Potter & Jason Lape & Bear
Departure: July 31st- Three Forks, Montana
The duo departed together but eventually split into their own solo expedition.
Jason and Bear arrived in New Orleans and ended their expedition there on Dec 11, 2020.
Lucus, arrived at South Pass-Gulf of Mexico on December 9th, 2020.
Lucus Potter & Jason Lape & Bear
Departure: July 31st- Three Forks, Montana
The duo departed together but eventually split into their own solo expedition.
Jason and Bear arrived in New Orleans and ended their expedition there on Dec 11, 2020.
Lucus, arrived at South Pass-Gulf of Mexico on December 9th, 2020.
2020-21: 22-Rivers Expedition:
On February 9th, Neal Moore departed from Astoria, Oregon on the Columbia River headed for New York City where he arrived after 22-months (675 days) December 14, 2021. Moore ascended the Columbia and Snake rivers to Lewiston, Idaho. From there he walked north to Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho where he then paddled up the Clark Fork river to Missoula, Montana. From Missoula, Moore portaged by cart over 100-miles to the Missouri river. Neal spent the winter months along the Gulf coast and working his way through Alabama north into the Ohio River. From the Ohio, Neal paddled up it to Pittsburgh, north to Lake Ontario, the Eire Canel to the Hudson river.
Neal's website:
The Independent Record article
Explorer's Web article
Montana Standard article
April 2021 newspaper story from Columbia, Mississippi on Neal's journey:
July 2021 New Interview WOWK-TV
Aug 4the article "From Sea to Shining Sea":
Photos below of Neal Moore in Montana by Norm Miller
2019: Missouri River Corps. of Rediscovery Expedition:
Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis, Missouri
Tom Elpel, Chris Dawkins, John Gentry, Scott Robinson, and Josiah Fischer paddled a dugout canoe named Belladonna from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. The canoe was built through a large volunteer effort, including Churchill Clark, the 4th Great grandson of Capt. William Clark. Elpel documented the journey which was published into a book entitled, Five Months on the Missouri River-Paddling a Dugout Canoe. The book has won many awards.
Elpel's book: Learn more and order here:
Helena Independent New's article, June 14, 2019
Helena Independent New's article, July 12, 2020
KFYR Bismarck News article, August 23rd
Photos below of Tom Elpel's expedition
2019: Ashley's Return Expedition:
On July 9 2019, a party of modern Mountain Men began their journey to re-trace the trail of William Ashley from his rendezvous site near the Green River, Wyoming to St Charles, MO using the same modes of travel and historic equipment. Scott Staggs (Amish), Gerry Messmer (Lucky), Jack Mitch (Poncho), Captain William Bailey, John Robert Harvey and Ron Schrotter departed by horse at the Green River Rendezvous site of 1825 in Wyoming. They eventually paddled the Big Horn, Yellowstone and Missouri rivers by dugout canoe and bull boats. From Yankton to St. Charles they descended in a 31-foot keel boat named the Muskrat.
(Photos by Kimberly Mitch, Scott Mertz, Steve Jeff and Cheryl Stephenson)
On July 9 2019, a party of modern Mountain Men began their journey to re-trace the trail of William Ashley from his rendezvous site near the Green River, Wyoming to St Charles, MO using the same modes of travel and historic equipment. Scott Staggs (Amish), Gerry Messmer (Lucky), Jack Mitch (Poncho), Captain William Bailey, John Robert Harvey and Ron Schrotter departed by horse at the Green River Rendezvous site of 1825 in Wyoming. They eventually paddled the Big Horn, Yellowstone and Missouri rivers by dugout canoe and bull boats. From Yankton to St. Charles they descended in a 31-foot keel boat named the Muskrat.
(Photos by Kimberly Mitch, Scott Mertz, Steve Jeff and Cheryl Stephenson)
Mark & MoStar by Patrick Tenny
2019:
St. Louis resident, Mark Fingerhut lead the way as the first expedition of the year. He paddled a beautiful 20' stripper kayak from Timber Longboard boats, dubbed the Mostar. Mark departed from the border of Yellowstone National Park, just north of West Yellowstone, Montana on the Madison River on May 13 at 12:51 p.m. He followed the Madison to where it joins with the Jefferson and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. He continued over the next 100-days, arriving at the arch in St. Louis on August 17th at 2:09 p.m.
- Mark's Blog archived of entire trip & photos: Click here
- Mark's appearance on KRTV, Channel 3- Great Falls TV: Click here:
- e-Missourian article on Mark kayaking the Missouri river: Click here:
- St. Charles Community News article on Mark: Click here:
- March 2024: Buffalo Roamer Podcast interview with Mark Fingerhut. Scroll to episode #85: PODCAST
2018
Dirk Rohrbach became the 13th person to descend the Missouri river system from the utmost source at Brower's Spring to the Gulf of Mexico. Dirk is a German film maker and professional adventurer. Dirk spent 135- days in his stripper made kayak. Dirk departed Brower's Spring on June 3, 2018 and arrived at the Gulf of Mexico on October 15th. A total of 135- days of which 109 days were paddling/non layovers/portaging. Dr. Dirk Rohrbach is a German physician,
radio journalist, and National Geographic author and photographer. With his award-winning live presentations, he is one of Europe’s most renowned inspirational speakers. For 20 years, he has hosted regular shows on national prime time radio in Germany and created several formats including “Americana,” a five-hour weekly music program introducing American country and folk music to his audience.
Dirk Rohrbach’s photojournalistic projects have been decorated with prizes multiple times. His live presentations are impressive with charismatic rhetoric and brilliant production. The books Yukon and Americana about his previous adventures are published through Malik/National Geographic in Europe. In the fall of 2013 renowned German publisher Piper has released Manual Instructions for Alaska about his experiences in Alaska.
In the summer of 2013 Dirk has traveled across America with his bicycle and camera for the new project Highway Junkie, collecting stories and photographs for a picture book, that has been published through National Geographic Germany as well as his latest release 'YUKON - New Adventures on the Great River'.
Dirk Rohrbach became the 13th person to descend the Missouri river system from the utmost source at Brower's Spring to the Gulf of Mexico. Dirk is a German film maker and professional adventurer. Dirk spent 135- days in his stripper made kayak. Dirk departed Brower's Spring on June 3, 2018 and arrived at the Gulf of Mexico on October 15th. A total of 135- days of which 109 days were paddling/non layovers/portaging. Dr. Dirk Rohrbach is a German physician,
radio journalist, and National Geographic author and photographer. With his award-winning live presentations, he is one of Europe’s most renowned inspirational speakers. For 20 years, he has hosted regular shows on national prime time radio in Germany and created several formats including “Americana,” a five-hour weekly music program introducing American country and folk music to his audience.
Dirk Rohrbach’s photojournalistic projects have been decorated with prizes multiple times. His live presentations are impressive with charismatic rhetoric and brilliant production. The books Yukon and Americana about his previous adventures are published through Malik/National Geographic in Europe. In the fall of 2013 renowned German publisher Piper has released Manual Instructions for Alaska about his experiences in Alaska.
In the summer of 2013 Dirk has traveled across America with his bicycle and camera for the new project Highway Junkie, collecting stories and photographs for a picture book, that has been published through National Geographic Germany as well as his latest release 'YUKON - New Adventures on the Great River'.
- Dirk's Waypoints HERE
- Dirk's Website: HERE
- Dirk's Q&A: Here
- Podcast: In German, BUT the interviews with director Norm Miller and paddler Churchill Clark are in English:
- Dirk's photo album through America. Great images: Click
- Added Oct 24, 2024: Documentary entitled, "Flow" by Dirk-- 5-hour award winning film of his Source to Sea: CLICK
2018 Coursing Through America Expedition-
Martin Trahan & Jill A. Brown
Coursing Through America Expedition was the 2017 winner of Canoe & Kayak's "Dream Adventure" Award. Canadian paddlers Martin Trahan and Jill A. Brown, began their historic cross continent expedition at the mouth of the Columbia River at Astoria, Oregon. They paddled up the Columbia and Snake Rivers before making an epic 20-day, 375 mile portage over the continental divide to the Missouri River near Helena, Montana. From here, they continued down the Missouri river to St. Louis together as a team. Due to conflicts among themselves, the duo split into two solo journeys. Jill continued from St. Louis to near Baton Rouge, LA, and Martin continued from St. Louis to the Gulf, then along the coast to Florida where he ended his journey at Key Largo, Florida.
- Coursing Through America Website: HERE
- Canoe & Kayak article- Underway: Article Here
- Canoe & Kayak article: Article Here
- Canoe & Kayak Article: Team Splits- Article Here
- Facebook Site: (Includes Jill A. Brown's amazing photos): Facebook Site Here
- Audio Interview with Martin when he arrived in Key Largo: Clyp Audio
- Jill A. Brown Winnipeg Free Press article: Click Here
- Post Depression Article on Martin Trahan
2018- Jim Emanuel- Three Forks, Montana to the Gulf of Mexico.
- Jim paddled a Clipper Sea-1 during his expedition. He was raising money and awareness for Children's cancer. The organization is known as Alex's Lemonade Stand:
- Click Links Below:
- ~Alex's Lemonade HERE
- Jim paddled with several other expeditions during his journey.
- ~Helena News Story:
- HERE
- ~News Story: Here
- ~News Feature story: Article Here
- ~Yankton News story: Includes Gary & Linda DeCock, Martin Trahan and Jill A. Brown: HERE
- ~ Jim Emanuel Q&A about his expedition. Click Here
2018: Water for People- Gary & Linda Dekock
Gary and Linda paddled from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis raising awareness for the organization Water for People.
~ Q&A with Gary & Linda: Click Here
~Website and video link:
~The First 38-days:
~Gary's Youtube Channel 2018 Missouri Videos:
~ An informative inside look at Linda & Gary in,
"Revealed", Click Here
2018:
Neal Moore - A Little Wake Expedition: Neal departed from Astoria, Oregon on the Columbia River headed to his final destination of New York, City. Neal reached Williston, ND on the Missouri river mid summer and opted to halt his journey until 2020 when he will resume. Click Links below:
Neal Moore - A Little Wake Expedition: Neal departed from Astoria, Oregon on the Columbia River headed to his final destination of New York, City. Neal reached Williston, ND on the Missouri river mid summer and opted to halt his journey until 2020 when he will resume. Click Links below:
2018: (Below)- Two other expeditions set out from Three Forks headed to St. Louis but came up a little short.
(L) Don Wood and dog, Fred paddled to Williston, ND. (R) Tomas Dawson and dog Tagg paddled to Great Falls.
We hope they both continue with their journeys!
(L) Don Wood and dog, Fred paddled to Williston, ND. (R) Tomas Dawson and dog Tagg paddled to Great Falls.
We hope they both continue with their journeys!
2017: There were 4 major historic descents of the Missouri river in 2017.
2017
Tina Brooke made history by becoming the first known woman to start on the Madison River near Bear Trap Canyon, Montana and paddle her canoe to the state of Mississippi. Tina's original plan was to continue to the Gulf of Mexico which she plans to complete in the year ahead.
Question & Answer with Tina: Click Here
Contact Tina
Tina Brooke made history by becoming the first known woman to start on the Madison River near Bear Trap Canyon, Montana and paddle her canoe to the state of Mississippi. Tina's original plan was to continue to the Gulf of Mexico which she plans to complete in the year ahead.
Question & Answer with Tina: Click Here
Contact Tina
2017:
Ellen "Megellen" Falterman: This Texas native paddler made history by becoming the youngest woman to solo the Missouri river from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi. She has since won the 2018 Peddle Boat division in the Mo340 race. During her 2017, she wrote a fantastic blog of her account which can be found here at, Paddleabout.
Question & Answer with Ellen: Click Here
UPDATE: November 2023: Ellen is making plans and soon will depart on a circumnavigation of the planet, solo, and in an ocean rowing rig. Read more about her endeavor, follow along, or read her blog at her website. ELLEN
2017
Hunter Yale and Brooks Taylor, paddled a wooden cedar strip Prospector canoe from Three Forks to the Gulf of Mexico in 118-days. They occasionally met up with a few other long distance paddlers. Their friend Mike Carey joined them in Kansas City and paddled to the Gulf of Mexico. Their journey began, July 10, and ended November 4th. They made an initial hike into Brower's Spring, the source of the Missouri, but car portaged most of the way to Three Forks.
Hunter Yale and Brooks Taylor, paddled a wooden cedar strip Prospector canoe from Three Forks to the Gulf of Mexico in 118-days. They occasionally met up with a few other long distance paddlers. Their friend Mike Carey joined them in Kansas City and paddled to the Gulf of Mexico. Their journey began, July 10, and ended November 4th. They made an initial hike into Brower's Spring, the source of the Missouri, but car portaged most of the way to Three Forks.
2017
Evan Rench: Long distance hiker turned paddler in 2017. His first time paddling was his first stroke at Three Forks, Montana. Evan paddled to St. Louis on a Sit On Top Kayak with his guitar tied to the back.
Click Images below of Evan during his first 2 days.
2017: Adventure Aaron Carotta paddled solo from Three Forks, Montana to Florida having no previous paddling experience.
~Canoe & Kayak Story: 5000 miles on $37.00
~The Advocate News story
Q&A with Aaron: Click Here:
2017: Lloyd Bailey: A retired railroad worker and great grandfather who pushed his canoe off from the shores of Three Forks and paddled home to St. Charles, Missouri. The wind and weather caused him to play it safe and jump ahead at Lake Sakakawea and put back in at Yankton. I’m sure the grand kids will have plenty of stories to listen to from their grandpa Lloyd.
Question & Answer with Lloyd: Click Here
2016- Early spring descent! Alaska resident, John Wetherby departs from Helena, Montana on March 11th and kayaked to Omaha, NE on May 29th. John will depart from Omaha spring of 2021 for the Gulf of Mexico.
World Herald news article: Click here
World Herald news article: Click here
2016
Laurie made history in 2016 by becoming the 10th person to "Source to Sea" the Missouri river system from Brower's Spring to the Gulf of Mexico. This was the 2nd known descent by "Canoe", all previous paddlers were in kayaks.
Links Below:
~Canoe & Kayak story: Mother's cancer diagnosis sparks Source to Sea Descent.
~Great Falls Tribune Story
~LeRoy ,New York News Story:
~Kris Laurie talks about decent from Brower's Spring.
~Youtube Interview by Norm Miller:
Make sure you listen to this video if you're planning on going to Brower's Spring.
Photos below from Kris Laurie, click to enlarge.
2016
Lisa Pugh & Alyce Louise - Source of Confidence Expedition- Source to Sea : Lisa & Alyce made paddling history in 2016 by hiking & Canoeing from Brower's Spring the utmost source and paddle to the Gulf of Mexico. They are the first known woman to have "canoed" and completed all mileage including portages under their own power. Their expedition was committed to accomplishing three goals: 1) Become the first women to canoe the 4th longest river system in the world; 2) Deliver a unique confidence-building curriculum, via adventure learning models and in-person workshops; and 3) Create a documentary film that, through a series of individual and group interviews with girls and women of all ages and backgrounds. Links Below
Lisa Pugh & Alyce Louise - Source of Confidence Expedition- Source to Sea : Lisa & Alyce made paddling history in 2016 by hiking & Canoeing from Brower's Spring the utmost source and paddle to the Gulf of Mexico. They are the first known woman to have "canoed" and completed all mileage including portages under their own power. Their expedition was committed to accomplishing three goals: 1) Become the first women to canoe the 4th longest river system in the world; 2) Deliver a unique confidence-building curriculum, via adventure learning models and in-person workshops; and 3) Create a documentary film that, through a series of individual and group interviews with girls and women of all ages and backgrounds. Links Below
2016
Missouri Break Expedition- Lance Stroheker and Gary Rice- Two kayakers from Missouri paddle from Three Forks, Montana to Mobridge, SD: Gary and Lance own Astral Glass Blowing in New Haven, Missouri and have helped many paddlers when they pass through. Make sure you stop by their shop and "blow a ball and sign the wall", a new tradition for thru- paddlers.
Link: Missouri Break Expedition Facebook Page:
Photos below by Gary and Lance. Click to enlarge:
Missouri Break Expedition- Lance Stroheker and Gary Rice- Two kayakers from Missouri paddle from Three Forks, Montana to Mobridge, SD: Gary and Lance own Astral Glass Blowing in New Haven, Missouri and have helped many paddlers when they pass through. Make sure you stop by their shop and "blow a ball and sign the wall", a new tradition for thru- paddlers.
Link: Missouri Break Expedition Facebook Page:
Photos below by Gary and Lance. Click to enlarge:
2016
Bruce "Buck" Nelson: Lewis & Clark Trail:
Buck became one of the few paddlers to start in St. Louis and hike & paddle UP the Missouri river. Buck arrived at Three Forks, Montana, the start of the main Missouri after just 4 months. From Three Forks, Buck hiked the overland route through the mountains to the Clearwater River in Idaho where he traded in his boots once again for his paddle and kayak. Buck arrived at the Pacific Ocean. He completed the 3300-mile expedition in under 6-months. Buck kept great journals and took some amazing photos. All of his blogs and photo's are archived here: Links Below-
Links on Buck's expedition below:
Bruce "Buck" Nelson: Lewis & Clark Trail:
Buck became one of the few paddlers to start in St. Louis and hike & paddle UP the Missouri river. Buck arrived at Three Forks, Montana, the start of the main Missouri after just 4 months. From Three Forks, Buck hiked the overland route through the mountains to the Clearwater River in Idaho where he traded in his boots once again for his paddle and kayak. Buck arrived at the Pacific Ocean. He completed the 3300-mile expedition in under 6-months. Buck kept great journals and took some amazing photos. All of his blogs and photo's are archived here: Links Below-
Links on Buck's expedition below:
- River Press News Ft. Benton News Story: (Article mainly features Missouri River Paddlers Gary Rice and Lance Stroheker but also mentions Nelson.)
- The Spokesman Review Newspaper story
- The Daily Astorian Newspaper Story:
- Canoe & Kayak Magazine Story: Bucks Source to Sea of the Mississippi River in 2015:
- PHOTOS-- Below by Norm Miller as Buck approached the start of the Missouri river at Three Forks, Montana. Buck had spent the past 4 months paddling upstream from St. Louis. The bottom set of four photo's by Buck.
- Click each photo to enlarge.
2016
Chris & Tiffany Allen made history for the 1st known rowing scull descent of the Missouri River. The two rowed individual solo rowing sculls that they built in their shop in Bozeman, Montana. They started in Three Forks and rowed to St. Louis.
Chris & Tiffany Allen made history for the 1st known rowing scull descent of the Missouri River. The two rowed individual solo rowing sculls that they built in their shop in Bozeman, Montana. They started in Three Forks and rowed to St. Louis.
Click the slide show below to see more images of their expedition.
2016: Steve Borcherding: Paddling a Wenonah Voyaguer solo canoe, Steve departed Garvins Point dam near Yankton, S.D., on September 30, 2016 and reached the Gulf of Mexico on November 21st.
(
2016: Diane Arnold & Warren Johnson: Started June 20 from Ft. Benton, Montana to St. Charles, Missouri on, October 22, 126 days. They had 5 wind-days where they didn't paddle. They arrived at Pierre, SD, on August 29th. They paddled two 16.5 Riot Polaris tandems with the front seat removed. The couple, over the following two years paddled down the Mississippi and Gulf to Florida. (In 2023, Warren repeated a descent of the Missouri River, solo from Ft. Benton to St. Louis... and beyond. )
2016: Diane Arnold & Warren Johnson: Started June 20 from Ft. Benton, Montana to St. Charles, Missouri on, October 22, 126 days. They had 5 wind-days where they didn't paddle. They arrived at Pierre, SD, on August 29th. They paddled two 16.5 Riot Polaris tandems with the front seat removed. The couple, over the following two years paddled down the Mississippi and Gulf to Florida. (In 2023, Warren repeated a descent of the Missouri River, solo from Ft. Benton to St. Louis... and beyond. )
2015:
Jack Kuhl: from Pierre, SD, kayaked from Three Forks, Montana to the arch in St. Louis. Jack paddled an Eddyline Shasta kayak. Jack arrived at Pelican Island (Mile 10) during the 2015 MoRP Rendezvous. Jack is a retired game warden and was 73-years young when he made the descent. Jack has helped out many paddlers when they reach Pierre by offering to help portage, a place to stay and a resupply of food.
Photos below by Norm Miller of Jack's departure on the Jefferson River at Drouillard access.
Click to Enlarge
Jack Kuhl: from Pierre, SD, kayaked from Three Forks, Montana to the arch in St. Louis. Jack paddled an Eddyline Shasta kayak. Jack arrived at Pelican Island (Mile 10) during the 2015 MoRP Rendezvous. Jack is a retired game warden and was 73-years young when he made the descent. Jack has helped out many paddlers when they reach Pierre by offering to help portage, a place to stay and a resupply of food.
Photos below by Norm Miller of Jack's departure on the Jefferson River at Drouillard access.
Click to Enlarge
2015
Renown dugout canoe builder, Churchill Clark carved a dugout dubbed "Knotty", and paddled her from Twin Bridges, Montana, down the Jefferson River over the course of 2 summers to St. Louis. This was his 3rd trip on the Missouri. Between 2004 and 2006, he retraced the Lewis & Clark Expedition with other re-enactors during the bicentennial. Churchill has it literally in his blood, being the 4th Great Grandson of Capt. William Clark of the L&C Expedition. Canoe Canoe!
~Yankton News Article on Churchill's Expedition Click Here:
~Columbia News Story: Descendent of William Clark Find Solace: Click Here:
~Knotty the Dugout on the Missouri River Facebook Page-Lots of photos! Click Here:
~Dugout Canoe Love Youtube Channel: Contains a lot of videos! Click Here:
Renown dugout canoe builder, Churchill Clark carved a dugout dubbed "Knotty", and paddled her from Twin Bridges, Montana, down the Jefferson River over the course of 2 summers to St. Louis. This was his 3rd trip on the Missouri. Between 2004 and 2006, he retraced the Lewis & Clark Expedition with other re-enactors during the bicentennial. Churchill has it literally in his blood, being the 4th Great Grandson of Capt. William Clark of the L&C Expedition. Canoe Canoe!
~Yankton News Article on Churchill's Expedition Click Here:
~Columbia News Story: Descendent of William Clark Find Solace: Click Here:
~Knotty the Dugout on the Missouri River Facebook Page-Lots of photos! Click Here:
~Dugout Canoe Love Youtube Channel: Contains a lot of videos! Click Here:
2015:
Beyond a Book Expedition ~On the River Expedition: Sara Dykman, Nia Thomas, Aaron Viducich, and Matt Titre, descended from Triple Divide Peak in Glacier National Park, Montana and hiked, peddled and paddled to the Gulf of Mexico. This route has never been done before. The waters from this peak flow into three different oceans---Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic. There expedition was well documented and followed by many. Make sure you check out their amazing educational videos.
Links Below-
- WEBSITE: (Includes Sara's Bike trip from Mexico to Canada.)
- Blog of entire journey & photos. Click Here:
- Videos: Fantastic educational and informative videos filmed during their expedition! Click Here:
- Sioux City Journal Story:
- Discovering the Missouri by Canoe: 1-hour presentation: Click Here:
- Canoe & Kayak Magazine Story: Bikes, Boats and Big Rivers: Reflections on the journey:
- A 45 minute audio interview with Sara Dykman about the expedition, recorded by Norm Miller:
- Clyp: Click Here: (Click left arrow to start audio once page opens)
- Photos below by "On The River Expedition"
2015
Allen Palmer: In 2015, Allen paddled and portaged from Brower's Spring to the upper headwaters of the Jefferson and down the Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico. Allen's photo albums and detailed trip is downloaded here. It is a must read for anyone paddling the length of the river. One of the most informative reports ever.
Allen also has a detailed report from Hellroaring Creek to Three Forks which is a must read for anyone doing the upper source waters.
Click Here for report:
Allen's Brower's Spring account:
Allen Palmer: In 2015, Allen paddled and portaged from Brower's Spring to the upper headwaters of the Jefferson and down the Missouri to the Gulf of Mexico. Allen's photo albums and detailed trip is downloaded here. It is a must read for anyone paddling the length of the river. One of the most informative reports ever.
Allen also has a detailed report from Hellroaring Creek to Three Forks which is a must read for anyone doing the upper source waters.
Click Here for report:
Allen's Brower's Spring account:
2015
Scott Hite started on June, 15, 2015 in
Twin Bridges, Montana on the Beaverhead River and kayaked to the Gulf of Mexico, ending at Port Eads ending his 151-day expedition.
Scott Hite started on June, 15, 2015 in
Twin Bridges, Montana on the Beaverhead River and kayaked to the Gulf of Mexico, ending at Port Eads ending his 151-day expedition.
2015
Ellen McDonah paddled her Current Design kayak from Twin Bridges departing June 13th. She paddled to Pierre, SD that summer and finished her descent from Pierre to St. Louis in 2017. In 2013 Ellen kayaked the length of the Mississippi River and wrote a book entitled,
"One Woman's Journey", about her expedition. Ellen is an amazing painter, many of her images are in her book.
Check out Ellen's website for more information or to obtain a copy of her book.
Ellen's Website and Book Here:
Photos by Ellen McDonah collection. Click to enlarge.
Ellen McDonah paddled her Current Design kayak from Twin Bridges departing June 13th. She paddled to Pierre, SD that summer and finished her descent from Pierre to St. Louis in 2017. In 2013 Ellen kayaked the length of the Mississippi River and wrote a book entitled,
"One Woman's Journey", about her expedition. Ellen is an amazing painter, many of her images are in her book.
Check out Ellen's website for more information or to obtain a copy of her book.
Ellen's Website and Book Here:
Photos by Ellen McDonah collection. Click to enlarge.
2015
Brian Herdman- Solo- Three Forks to St. Louis.
Brian started on July, 13th and arrived at the arch on Sept, 26h for a total of 75-days, 4 hours and 8 minutes...but who's counting?
Photos below by Brian. Click to enlarge:
2015
Dave Starkey paddled from Three Forks to St. Louis. Starkey started in May and ended in August. The only high tech gear he carried was a cell phone to keep tabs with his wife back home in Illinois.
Photos below by Dave Starkey
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2015:
John Johnson: John paddled from Livingston, Montana to the Confluence with the Mississippi river. This was J.J's 2nd trip down the Missouri river. (See 2008, below) John started out in a kayak on the Yellowstone, and capsized on day one. John skipped a few of the more challenging sections of the Yellowstone, and proceeded to Williston, ND where he continued downstream. John traded his kayak for a traditional canoe near Sioux City and completed his journey. John arrived at the kick-off party of the first ever MoRP Rendezvous.
John Johnson: John paddled from Livingston, Montana to the Confluence with the Mississippi river. This was J.J's 2nd trip down the Missouri river. (See 2008, below) John started out in a kayak on the Yellowstone, and capsized on day one. John skipped a few of the more challenging sections of the Yellowstone, and proceeded to Williston, ND where he continued downstream. John traded his kayak for a traditional canoe near Sioux City and completed his journey. John arrived at the kick-off party of the first ever MoRP Rendezvous.
2014:
Blackwater Drifters Expedition - SOURCE TO SEA. In 2014 Joe Zimmerman and Nick Caiazza began at Browers Spring...the ultimate source of the Missouri and paddled to the Gulf of Mexico. This historic expedition became the 1st source to sea descent while paddling SIT ON TOP Kayaks.
Links Below-
Nick has since produced an award winning documentary of their journey.
Blackwater Drifters Expedition - SOURCE TO SEA. In 2014 Joe Zimmerman and Nick Caiazza began at Browers Spring...the ultimate source of the Missouri and paddled to the Gulf of Mexico. This historic expedition became the 1st source to sea descent while paddling SIT ON TOP Kayaks.
Links Below-
Nick has since produced an award winning documentary of their journey.
- AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARY: (A must see especially you intend to start at Brower's Spring)
- Hobie Blog about their expedition:
- Nick and Joe on NPR in Omaha:
- News story in the Bismarck newspaper:
- COMMUNITY RADIO OF N. COLORADO:
- Interview with Missouri River Paddler Org., founder Norm Miller by Nick Caiazza on Vimeo
- NICK AND JOE ON FACEBOOK: Lots of great photos here! FACEBOOK SITE
2014:
KEITH LYNCH Paddled from Montana to Dallas, Texas:
One of the most remarkable journey we've ever followed here on the Mo Paddlers page is that of Keith Lynch. Lynch had never canoed or camped prior to his departure from Twin Bridges, Montana in the spring of 2014. Keith paddled through 15-states, 5-rivers, including 800-miles UPstream on the Red River in Texas before arriving via the Trinity River and his home in Dallas.
This 4000-mile journey was followed by many, and Canoe & Kayak Magazine dubbed this route the, "Lynch Trail".
Keith won Canoe & Kayak Magazine's "Spirit of Adventure" Award in August of 2015!
KEITH LYNCH Paddled from Montana to Dallas, Texas:
One of the most remarkable journey we've ever followed here on the Mo Paddlers page is that of Keith Lynch. Lynch had never canoed or camped prior to his departure from Twin Bridges, Montana in the spring of 2014. Keith paddled through 15-states, 5-rivers, including 800-miles UPstream on the Red River in Texas before arriving via the Trinity River and his home in Dallas.
This 4000-mile journey was followed by many, and Canoe & Kayak Magazine dubbed this route the, "Lynch Trail".
Keith won Canoe & Kayak Magazine's "Spirit of Adventure" Award in August of 2015!
- Keith's blog is a must read! Here is the link including archived photos:
- Canoe & Kayak's story on Keith's Journey:
- Humorous promo video of Keith Journey: This is great to see his transformation--
- Dallas Newspaper of his epic arrival after paddling 4000 miles!
- Grind TV covers Keith's journey:
- Louisiana newspaper covers Keith's canoe trip:
- Keith video of the Missouri Breaks, Montana:
- Paddling the dangerous Ft. Peck lake, Montana---Every paddlers challenge!
- Keith capsized on day-4 of his trip and lost $4000.00 in camera equipment. Norm Miller &
- Kris Walker from Montana found and retrieved it 4-months later: Here is the discovery.
- ALL of Keith's Youtube Videos of his journey: Make sure you check all these out....lots of great information to be had.
- Keith Lynch arrives to Texas---Norm Miller surprised Keith and filmed his final few days: Here is Part 1 of Video
- Keith on the Trinity River Video---
- Keith Arrives near Dallas from Montana: YouTube Video
- Canoe & Kayak Magazine's Spirit of Adventure Award --Acceptance speech by Keith:
The route of Keith Lynch in 2014. Keith began on the Beaverhead river in Twin Bridges, Montana. From there, he paddled and portaged the Jefferson, Missouri, Mississippi, Red and Trinity rivers to Dallas, Texas.
Click Photos below to enlarge-
2014-- Dale Waldo became the 2nd person to go from the Source of the Missouri to St. Louis by CANOE!
Dale made a huge effort and paddled the 2800-miles from June 25th and arrived August 19th for a speedy descent. Dale and his father Rick, in 2013 paddled Source to Sea of the Mississippi. In 2017 Dale and friend Luke Rookus attempted a speed descent of the entire Missouri from Source to Sea. The trip came to a sudden end three days into the journey due to personal reasons. Despite their early ending, they managed to be the first known people to ever portage a tandem canoe into the source at Brower's Spring and make the difficult portage down the canyon to the valley floor. This required monumental effort and determination.
Below is the link to Dale's journey on FACEBOOK---Lots of Great photos including the Brower's Spring area and the epic Red Rock River......with all of it's fences!!
Photo by Norm Miller of Dale Waldo at Paddle Hard Brewing Company in Grayling, Michigan. Dale is standing in from of a map of Verlen Kruger's 28,000 mile route through the US and Canada. Link Below-
Dales Facebook Page:
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2014- Paul Gamache: Paul made a speed descent down the Missouri river during the summer of 2014. Paul started at Brower's Spring, the utmost source of the Missouri river to the Gulf of Mexico in 78-days! Paul's quest for 2014 was to climb the highest peak in North America (Denali) and paddle the longest river.
A Vimeo film of Paul's endeavor, showing both the paddling and climbing is linked below.
LINKS BELOW-
2014- Paul Gamache: Paul made a speed descent down the Missouri river during the summer of 2014. Paul started at Brower's Spring, the utmost source of the Missouri river to the Gulf of Mexico in 78-days! Paul's quest for 2014 was to climb the highest peak in North America (Denali) and paddle the longest river.
A Vimeo film of Paul's endeavor, showing both the paddling and climbing is linked below.
LINKS BELOW-
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2014
Brian Duncan from Chamois, Mo, kayaked solo from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis aboard his Wilderness Systems kayak. Brian has competed in the Mo340 in the past. He departed Three Forks in May, along with his father who paddled the first 25-miles with him.
Photos by Norm Miller. Click images below to enlarge.
2014
Brian Duncan from Chamois, Mo, kayaked solo from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis aboard his Wilderness Systems kayak. Brian has competed in the Mo340 in the past. He departed Three Forks in May, along with his father who paddled the first 25-miles with him.
Photos by Norm Miller. Click images below to enlarge.
2014
Janessa Onwiler and Dylan Mangel kayaked from Three Forks, Montana to their home in Omaha, Nebraska. During their descent, they ran into paddler Brian Duncan and Rod Weeding, both headed to St. Louis. The quad paddlers paddled a few times throughout the journey. Departure date was May, 21st and took 81-days, arriving on August 21st. Janessa paddled only to Omaha. They ran into Brian Duncan and paddled with him from Fort Peck until Jefferson City, MO on day 76. The boat Dylan used was a 16’6” Dagger Magellan Sea Kayak.
Janessa Onwiler and Dylan Mangel kayaked from Three Forks, Montana to their home in Omaha, Nebraska. During their descent, they ran into paddler Brian Duncan and Rod Weeding, both headed to St. Louis. The quad paddlers paddled a few times throughout the journey. Departure date was May, 21st and took 81-days, arriving on August 21st. Janessa paddled only to Omaha. They ran into Brian Duncan and paddled with him from Fort Peck until Jefferson City, MO on day 76. The boat Dylan used was a 16’6” Dagger Magellan Sea Kayak.
2014
Rod Weeding kayaked over 2-summers from Three Forks to St. Louis. In 2014, he paddled to Pierre, SD and finished the following year--2015. Rod made his stripper kayak seen here is the photo by Gail Weeding. Rod paddled with Brian Duncan, Dylan Mangel and Janessa Onwiler a few days during their descents.
Question & Answer with Rod: Click Here
Rod Weeding kayaked over 2-summers from Three Forks to St. Louis. In 2014, he paddled to Pierre, SD and finished the following year--2015. Rod made his stripper kayak seen here is the photo by Gail Weeding. Rod paddled with Brian Duncan, Dylan Mangel and Janessa Onwiler a few days during their descents.
Question & Answer with Rod: Click Here
2013:
Scott Mestrezat became the first person to paddle a SUP--Stand Up Paddle Board from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis in 2013. Scott is an incredible photographer, check out his blog, photos and video of his historic expedition:
Q&A with Scott: Click Here:
LINKS BELOW-
- Scott's 400 page trip blog w/ hundreds of photos. A must read! Click Here:
- Facebook: Scott's Facebook account of his SUP journey:
- Canoe & Kayak Magazine story:
- Big Muddy Moose Video Trailer of his journey:
- Aquapac Promo video of Scott:
- Small Boat Monthly Magazine story:
- Youtube video #1:
- Youtube video #2:
- Youtube video #3:
- SUP Radio Interview:
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2013:
Janet Moreland & Love Your Big Muddy Expedition:
In 2013, Janet became the first known woman to go from the utmost source of the Missouri River at Brower's Spring, Montana and follow the water to the Gulf of Mexico....solo.. 3700 miles, 223 days. Here is Janet's blog with many great photos and stories. Janet won Canoe & Kayak Magazine's, "Spirit of Adventure" Award in 2014 for her efforts! Janet has since solo kayaked the Mississippi and Yukon rivers both source to sea! Links Below-
Janet Moreland & Love Your Big Muddy Expedition:
In 2013, Janet became the first known woman to go from the utmost source of the Missouri River at Brower's Spring, Montana and follow the water to the Gulf of Mexico....solo.. 3700 miles, 223 days. Here is Janet's blog with many great photos and stories. Janet won Canoe & Kayak Magazine's, "Spirit of Adventure" Award in 2014 for her efforts! Janet has since solo kayaked the Mississippi and Yukon rivers both source to sea! Links Below-
- LoveYourBigMuddy BLOG:
- Janet's Face Book Page:
- This epic ski to Brower's Spring with Janet Moreland and Norm Miller--Part 1- Here:
- Part 2- Skiing to the ultimate Source of the Missouri River:
- Janet arrives at Three Forks, Montana. Video by Norm Miller:
- Janet was the 2014 winner of Canoe & Kayak Magazine's "Spirit of Adventure" award!!!!!
- Here is Janet accepting her award at the OR-Show in Salt Lake City. Video Here-
- Rapid Media story on Janet here:
- The Missouri River Paddlers are honored to have Janet as a key person in the paddling group. Make sure you read Janet's blogs for more videos and stories of her historic journey.
Click Photos below to enlarge and read captions: These cover Brower's Spring and the Missouri River headwaters.
2013:
David Forbes solo kayaked from Three Forks to St. Louis. David has since paddled the entire Mississippi river and is a wealth of information if you are planning a trip down these rivers.
Trails Journal and Blog:
Question & Answer with David: Click here:
David Forbes solo kayaked from Three Forks to St. Louis. David has since paddled the entire Mississippi river and is a wealth of information if you are planning a trip down these rivers.
Trails Journal and Blog:
Question & Answer with David: Click here:
2013:
Shawn Hollingsworth Expedition-- Solo stripper canoe, Three Forks to St. Louis. Shawn started his expedition from Three Forks with 2 other paddlers, who eventually quit. Shawn proceeded on solo.
Here is a brief trip report by Shawn:
CLICK HERE TO READ
(L)Scott Mestrezat photo
Photos below by Shawn, click to enlarge.
Shawn Hollingsworth Expedition-- Solo stripper canoe, Three Forks to St. Louis. Shawn started his expedition from Three Forks with 2 other paddlers, who eventually quit. Shawn proceeded on solo.
Here is a brief trip report by Shawn:
CLICK HERE TO READ
(L)Scott Mestrezat photo
Photos below by Shawn, click to enlarge.
2012-13
On April 2, 2013, Rod Wellington became the first Canadian,to kayak the Missouri-Mississippi river system from source to sea, a distance of 3800 miles. The solo journey took 256 days to complete. Rod started in June of 2012.
See 2012, Below for all of Rod Wellington's links and information.
Photos by Rod Wellington. Click to Enlarge Contact Rod, Click Here:
On April 2, 2013, Rod Wellington became the first Canadian,to kayak the Missouri-Mississippi river system from source to sea, a distance of 3800 miles. The solo journey took 256 days to complete. Rod started in June of 2012.
See 2012, Below for all of Rod Wellington's links and information.
- Rod Wellington's Website Here:
- Rod's Missouri River descent-Brower's Spring Blog:
- Rod talks on TEDx:
- CK Review Canada-Article on expedition:
- Sioux City Journal News story:
- Youtube: Pack Rafting Hell Roaring creek 2012:
- Youtube: Descending Hell Roaring Creek:
- A Missouri River Minute: #1 Near Ft. Peck video:
- A Missouri River Minute #2 Coulees: The Badlands video:
- A Missouri River Minute #3 Banks of the Missouri video:
- Rod has over 20-videos of his historic kayak descent, which are a must see for anyone paddling the entire river system. Rod has a Youtube Channel where all his 2012-13 descent videos are located. CLICK HERE:
Photos by Rod Wellington. Click to Enlarge Contact Rod, Click Here:
2012 This year was an historic year for the Missouri river and the paddling community. This was the year that the 1st "Kayak" descent of the 4th Longest river system in the world took place from Brower's Spring, Montana to the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of nearly 3800 miles. The whole "Source to Sea" concept became a recent fad in the paddling world with the race to descend the Amazon river from its source to the Atlantic. (the first known descent StoS, is by Mark Spitzer in 1988 by canoe. Click Here to See the Brower's Spring page & information.
2012: Australian Mark Kalch, makes the 1st descent of the Missouri River system by kayak--the worlds 4th longest river, from source to sea. Mark paddled and portaged nearly 3800-miles from Brower's Spring to the Gulf of Mexico in 117-days. Mark has since paddled the longest river system on 4 continents from Source to Sea--the Amazon, Missouri-Miss, Volga, and the Murray-Darling rivers. Click Links below for more information on Mark Kalch's historic descent.
- Mark Kalch Expedition Video of Brower's Spring to Three Forks by Norm Miller
- Mark arrives at Three Forks, Montana video--The First 10-days by Norm Miller:
- Mark Kalch Website on his 7Rivers-7Continents Project:
- Interview with Alastair Humphrey's with Mark on his river project
- Mark Kalch on TED talk about his river trips:
- RapidMedia Interview with Mark Kalch:
- Canoe & Kayak: The Utmost Missouri article
- Sidetracked Magazine Story by Mark on his trip to the Source:
- Canoe & Kayak article & photos by Mark Kalch on the Missouri River descent: The American Amazon.
- Paul Kirtley Blog & Interview with Mark Kalch:
- The Red Zone Tech Interview with Mark Kalch:
2012
Aussie Bob Bellingham paddled from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis in his EddieLine Shasta kayak named , "Barbara May", after his better half in Australia. Bob provided one of the most enjoyable blogs to read during the summer. Bob seemed to be the life of the party wherever he went along the Missouri River. Once Bob completed his journey, he sold his kayak to Janet Moreland who used it to become the 1st woman to descend the Missouri river from Source to Sea. Bob and wife Barbara attended the Missouri River Paddlers Rendezvous in 2015 and they also paddled together from Three Forks, to Kipp Bridge, Montana in 2017.
Bob's blog including photos and video is archived here. A very informative read:
- SteadyPaddling Blog
- The South Dakota Capital Journal News story on Bob:
- Q&A with Bob about his Missouri River journey- CLICK HERE:
- Click the images below to enlarge
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T&T Expedition 2012 :
Thomas Walker and Tyler Ranes,
The Montana duo paddled an aluminum canoe from Great Falls, Montana to St. Louis. They occasionally paddled with Aussie Bob Bellingham during his descent.
Photos below by T&T: Click to enlarge
2012:
Dom Liboiron- To honour his uncle Mitch & raise awareness about heart disease, Dom canoed from Saskatchewan, Canada to New Orleans - a distance of 3300 miles/5200 kms.
Dom was the 2013 Spirit of Adventure award winner by C&K magazine.
Click below for Dom's Links.
Question & Answer with Dom about his journey: Click Here:
Photos below by Dom Liboiron. Click to enlarge and read captions.
Dom Liboiron- To honour his uncle Mitch & raise awareness about heart disease, Dom canoed from Saskatchewan, Canada to New Orleans - a distance of 3300 miles/5200 kms.
Dom was the 2013 Spirit of Adventure award winner by C&K magazine.
Click below for Dom's Links.
Question & Answer with Dom about his journey: Click Here:
- Canoe To New Orleans Carrying Uncle Mitch's Ashes Website:
- Canoe To New Orleans Facebook Page:
- CBS New Interview: Dom's interview was televised on National TV during the 2013 Superbowl in New Orleans. Fantastic Interview by Steve Hartman: HERE:
- Dan Reynish Interview CBC Radio with Dom: Here:
- First Interview by CBC Radio Canada prior to Departure: Here:
- Billings Gazette News Story:
- 2013 Canoe & Kayak Spirit of Adventure Award presented by Verizon: Here
Photos below by Dom Liboiron. Click to enlarge and read captions.
2011: Andy Bugh
This Plano, Texas resident paddled from Lima, Montana on the Red Rock River to the Gulf of Mexico during the 2011 flood. Andy paddled a Shasta Eddy Line kayak. Andy did some of the earliest recon of the utmost source of the Missouri river at Brower's Spring. That information is used by current "Source to Sea" paddlers. See our section on Brower's Spring at this website. Andy is referred to as the Grandfather of the Brower's Spring Paddlers for his work.
Photos below by Andy Bugh: Click to enlarge.
This Plano, Texas resident paddled from Lima, Montana on the Red Rock River to the Gulf of Mexico during the 2011 flood. Andy paddled a Shasta Eddy Line kayak. Andy did some of the earliest recon of the utmost source of the Missouri river at Brower's Spring. That information is used by current "Source to Sea" paddlers. See our section on Brower's Spring at this website. Andy is referred to as the Grandfather of the Brower's Spring Paddlers for his work.
Photos below by Andy Bugh: Click to enlarge.
2011:
Misty Rose Johnson & Patrick Igou, paddled their aluminum canoe from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. They often met up, paddled, and camped with Andy Bugh during his descent. They started July 20th and ended 78-days later on October 25th.
Photos below by Misty Rose Johnson. Click to enlarge:
Misty Rose Johnson & Patrick Igou, paddled their aluminum canoe from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. They often met up, paddled, and camped with Andy Bugh during his descent. They started July 20th and ended 78-days later on October 25th.
Photos below by Misty Rose Johnson. Click to enlarge:
2011
Aussie Dirk Embery paddled down the Yellowstone River to the confluence with the Missouri and continued to Jefferson City, Mo. Dirk started in Livingston, Mt on July 26th and arrived in Jefferson City on October, 10th for a 65-day descent.
Click here to read Dirk's blog about his journey:
Photos below by Dirk Embery-Click to enlarge.
2010
Charles Vaught & Tom Bailey paddled from Three Forks, Montana to the Gulf of Mexico, becoming the youngest known paddlers to descend the entire river system.
Q&A with Charles: Click Here:
Q&A with Tom: Click Here:
2010:
Helena, Montana resident Will Garvin, canoed from Helena, Montana to Helena, Arkansas down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Will has been a river angel to many long distance paddlers offering assistance around Canyon Ferry and Holter dams on the Missouri river.
Helena, Montana resident Will Garvin, canoed from Helena, Montana to Helena, Arkansas down the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Will has been a river angel to many long distance paddlers offering assistance around Canyon Ferry and Holter dams on the Missouri river.
2010
Jeff Medley of Missoula, Montana paddled from Three Forks to the arch in St. Louis. Starting on July 10th from Headwaters State Park, Jeff paddled and portaged 2300-miles in 59-days. Youtube compilation of Jeff's Expedition, Click Here: Photos below by Jeff. Click them to enlarge: 
2009: In June of 2009, as a fourth year medical student, Joe Forrester departed from Three Forks, Montana and kayaked solo to the Gulf of Mexico raising awareness for Parkinson’s Disease which his grandfather was diagnosed with. Joe departed on June 2, 09 and arrived at the Gulf of Mexico 94-days later on September 3rd, 2009. His endurance was shadowed by his cause, Joe raised nearly $22,000.00 dollars of which 100% went to the National Parkinson’s Foundation! A very commendable and heartfelt journey was followed by many. ~ An in-depth Q&A with Joe regarding his expedition: Click Here: ~ Bozeman Chronicle News Story from Three Forks Click Here: Photos below by Joe Forrester unless otherwise noted. Click images to enlarge. 
2008
John Johnson - Three Forks to the confluence of the Mississippi River-Mile 0. John Started on July 1st and arrived in 115-days. John paddled an Old Town Penobscot. John says it's his favorite expedition vessel that he's owned. (Note: John paddled the Missouri again in 2015 from the the Yellowstone river near Livingston, Montana to the Mississippi. Start date was May 23 and he finished around August 8th. ) |
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John during descent of the Mississippi.
Photo by Chuck Martin.
2007
John Sullivan is a canoeing enthusiast who enjoys extended trips down (and sometimes up) our nation's streams, rivers and waterways. His excursions started in 1998 and were centered primarily in Wisconsin. His initial interest was following the paths of our early explorers and voyageurs on their historic routes from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi. He then wandered from Wisconsin and started paddling other "state-named" rivers that flow to the Mississippi - the Minnesota, Ohio, Iowa and Illinois.
In 2007, he started down the first leg of the Missouri River from Three Forks to Bismarck. He paddled the very long reservoir reach from Bismarck to Sioux City in 2008 and finished the channelized portion down to the Mississippi in 2010. He had planned to paddle the Mississippi headwaters back to La Crosse in September 2011, but postponed that trip until June of 2012 when passage through the vegetation-filled headwater marshes was less of a problem. John is a moderator for the Mississippi River Paddlers group on Facebook.
Question & Answer with John: Click Here:
John Sullivan is a canoeing enthusiast who enjoys extended trips down (and sometimes up) our nation's streams, rivers and waterways. His excursions started in 1998 and were centered primarily in Wisconsin. His initial interest was following the paths of our early explorers and voyageurs on their historic routes from the Great Lakes to the Mississippi. He then wandered from Wisconsin and started paddling other "state-named" rivers that flow to the Mississippi - the Minnesota, Ohio, Iowa and Illinois.
In 2007, he started down the first leg of the Missouri River from Three Forks to Bismarck. He paddled the very long reservoir reach from Bismarck to Sioux City in 2008 and finished the channelized portion down to the Mississippi in 2010. He had planned to paddle the Mississippi headwaters back to La Crosse in September 2011, but postponed that trip until June of 2012 when passage through the vegetation-filled headwater marshes was less of a problem. John is a moderator for the Mississippi River Paddlers group on Facebook.
Question & Answer with John: Click Here:
2007
Adam Brooks kayaked from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. He has also paddled the Mississippi and Yukon rivers, and hiked the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. You can read all about his Missouri river descent in his detailed blog with many photos. Adam paddled a 17ft. fiberglass Romany Explorer by Nigel Dennis.
Adams Missouri River 2007 Blog here:
Photos below by Adam Brooks:
2006-07
"Coach" Larry Hoff- During the summers of 2006 and 2007 he paddled and portaged a canoe 6,200 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific by way of the Potomac, Ohio, Mississippi, Missouri, Snake and Columbia Rivers. Larry started in June of 2006 in Washington, DC and worked his way to Mandan, North Dakota, which was the wintering headquarters of Lewis and Clark on their epic journey. Then in 2007 he completed the trip to the Pacific Ocean. This expedition was a coast to coast endeavor. Larry paddled a decked canoe built by Verlen Kruger called a Sea Wind.
Larry's extensive blog and website is full of information about his Missouri River portion as well as many other adventures. Larry is a very inspiring man and we are glad he is a part of the MoRP.
Larry's Website Here:
Question & Answer with Larry: Click Here
"Coach" Larry Hoff- During the summers of 2006 and 2007 he paddled and portaged a canoe 6,200 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific by way of the Potomac, Ohio, Mississippi, Missouri, Snake and Columbia Rivers. Larry started in June of 2006 in Washington, DC and worked his way to Mandan, North Dakota, which was the wintering headquarters of Lewis and Clark on their epic journey. Then in 2007 he completed the trip to the Pacific Ocean. This expedition was a coast to coast endeavor. Larry paddled a decked canoe built by Verlen Kruger called a Sea Wind.
Larry's extensive blog and website is full of information about his Missouri River portion as well as many other adventures. Larry is a very inspiring man and we are glad he is a part of the MoRP.
Larry's Website Here:
Question & Answer with Larry: Click Here
2006-2004
These years marked the 200th anniversary of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. There was a huge increase of adventurers on the Missouri. One of the largest historical re-enactments took place during this time. Many of the founding members of the MoRP formed a bonding friendship with those involved in this re-enactment. One cannot put into words the magnitude of these couple of years on the Missouri River. The Missouri River is a connecting body of water with those who paddle it, and nothing is more prevalent than this group. In short, a large contingent of people from all walks of life retraced the entire Lewis and Clark route from Thomas Jefferson's home at Monticello, Va, and headed west over the next three years starting in 2003, to the Pacific Ocean and back to St. Louis. They followed the same time-line as Lewis & Clark, wintering at Camp Dubois, Ft. Mandan and Ft. Clatsop in relation to the same time the original explorers were there...only 200 years later.
These years marked the 200th anniversary of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. There was a huge increase of adventurers on the Missouri. One of the largest historical re-enactments took place during this time. Many of the founding members of the MoRP formed a bonding friendship with those involved in this re-enactment. One cannot put into words the magnitude of these couple of years on the Missouri River. The Missouri River is a connecting body of water with those who paddle it, and nothing is more prevalent than this group. In short, a large contingent of people from all walks of life retraced the entire Lewis and Clark route from Thomas Jefferson's home at Monticello, Va, and headed west over the next three years starting in 2003, to the Pacific Ocean and back to St. Louis. They followed the same time-line as Lewis & Clark, wintering at Camp Dubois, Ft. Mandan and Ft. Clatsop in relation to the same time the original explorers were there...only 200 years later.
2006
Bill Nedderman crossed the U.S. by canoe from Astoria, Oregon to Savannah, Georgia between April 1st and Christmas Day, 2006. During the Missouri River portion, he was joined by Belgian Dr. Karina Van Houcke. They reached the arch in St. Louis on Sept.23rd during the close of the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial. Bill is a paddling legend, having covered close to 40,000 lifetime miles. Bill solo'd the Great Eastern Loop-6000 miles over 12-months in 2012.
Below are a few links of Nedderman's journeys.
East Loop: Cumberland N.J Newspapers Click Here:
The Voice article: Click Here:
Canoe & Kayak Interview: Click Here:
2006-2003
Illinois man Larry Hazzard paddled upriver in the wake of Lewis & Clark. Over the course of the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial, Larry paddled his way up the Missouri River. Averaging about 10-15 miles a day in a canoe named after his 19-year old daughter, Rebecca Lynn. Larry says he's, "cooked everything from frozen Pizza to home made apple pie on a campfire."
News Story of Larry's Expedition Here:
Illinois man Larry Hazzard paddled upriver in the wake of Lewis & Clark. Over the course of the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial, Larry paddled his way up the Missouri River. Averaging about 10-15 miles a day in a canoe named after his 19-year old daughter, Rebecca Lynn. Larry says he's, "cooked everything from frozen Pizza to home made apple pie on a campfire."
News Story of Larry's Expedition Here:
2005
Sipke Debour- This Minnesota resident paddled from Three Forks to St. Louis during the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial. Sipke is a Greenland style paddler who also attended the 2015 MoRP Rendezvous. The photo to the left is of Sipke by Norm Miller taken at Judith Landing on the Missouri River. Note the white Lewis & Clark perogue in the background. Sipke was at Judith Landing 200 years to the day that Lewis & Clark camped there.
The SD Capital Journal News Story: Man retraces L&C: CLICK HERE:
2005: Julian Wedgewood, age 70, from London England canoed from the upper Missouri headwaters on the Beaverhead River to Corpus Christi, Texas arriving just as Hurricane Katrina was making landfall. According to Julian, he departed at 8:45 am on Tuesday, May 3rd. He had just completed a 19-mile portage with his canoe and cart around Great Falls when he flipped and swamped below Morony Dam, Montana and nearly died and lost the canoe. He made it to Baton Rouge on Saturday the 27th of August, then a few more miles to Corpus Christi as the hurricane roared in. He did have a motor in his canoe which he used on occasion. He spent a total of 117-days on the trail. This author recently contacted Julian in London, and he's still just as adventurous today. As of this writing, 84-year old Julian is about to set off on a cycle trip through Romania. He has written a book, which I hope to have downloaded here on the MoRP site in the future. Julian is the 2nd great nephew of Charles Darwin, and is a descendent of the famed Wedgewood Pottery Company in England.
Sioux City Journal article: London Man Canoes Down the Missouri: CLICK HERE:
Sioux City Journal article: London Man Canoes Down the Missouri: CLICK HERE:
2005
Apple Valley, California resident John McFarland is a key paddler in the MoRP. In 2005, John paddled from Three Forks to Vicksburg, Mississippi only being forced to stop by the deadly hurricane Katrina. John is a wealth of information on the Missouri river. John has also paddled the Columbia and Mississippi rivers. John paddles a We-no-nah canoe and is known as "Can Man McFarland", the nick name which he received from fellow MoRP members after colliding with a can bouy in his canoe during the 2018 MoRP Rendezvous. John is one of the earliest members of the MoRP having run into founder Norm Miller in the White Cliffs near Slaughter Creek on May 28, 2005. John is a veteran of the Vietnam War.
Apple Valley, California resident John McFarland is a key paddler in the MoRP. In 2005, John paddled from Three Forks to Vicksburg, Mississippi only being forced to stop by the deadly hurricane Katrina. John is a wealth of information on the Missouri river. John has also paddled the Columbia and Mississippi rivers. John paddles a We-no-nah canoe and is known as "Can Man McFarland", the nick name which he received from fellow MoRP members after colliding with a can bouy in his canoe during the 2018 MoRP Rendezvous. John is one of the earliest members of the MoRP having run into founder Norm Miller in the White Cliffs near Slaughter Creek on May 28, 2005. John is a veteran of the Vietnam War.
2005: Jim Kurz- Jim paddled from his hometown of Ladysmith, Wisconsin, across the state, through Minnesota and into the Missouri river near Sioux City, Iowa. From there, he paddled up the Missouri river to Three Forks, Montana. Jim wrote a book about his experience entitled, "Out My Backyard". On June 9, 2023, Jim Kurz tragically died while paddling in the Missouri Breaks National Monument. You can read about this event in the News section and the Paddlers Memorial Page. If you would like to read Jim's book, you can order one here from a total of $10, including shipping and handling. Any profits from this sale will go towards the maintenance of this website, the planting of trees at a few locations in memory or Jim, and a possible plaque at his last camp.
Click Here to email moderator for a copy of the book and more details.
Photos below by Jim Kurz
2005- James Sheldon. Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. Sheldon encountered Jim Kurz on his trip, who took this photos. See previous expedition above. If you have anymore links of information on Sheldon, please let us know.
2005- Andrew Marsters:
Rowed a homemade boat from Billings, Montana on the Yellowstone River to St. Louis, Mo. Jim Kurz encountered Marsters and took this photo. See the trip above of Jim Kurz.
2005- Jeff Otten: From Gardiner, Montana on the Yellowstone River to St. Louis in an inflatable kayak. Jim Kurz too this image of Otten. See above Kurz report for more information. If you have any information on Jeff Otten and his journey, please notify the web host.
2005- Ronrick Thomas: Billings, Montana on the Yellowstone to Key West, Florida by kayak. Jim Kurz took this image as the duo met along the river. If you have any information on Ronrick's journey or contact information, please let us know.
2004:
Norm Miller is the founder of the Missouri River Paddlers group (MoRP). Miller fulfilled a childhood dream of tracing the westward journey of the Lewis & Clark trail during the bicentennial. Miller began his expedition from Alton dam on the Mississippi river, March 23rd. Miller ascended the Missouri over the next 17-weeks to Three Forks, Montana, then began a 4 week backpack journey over the continental divide through Montana to the Clearwater River in Idaho. From there, Miller descended the Clearwater, Snake and Columbia Rivers to the Pacific Ocean arriving on Sept, 27th. His detailed record keeping and love of paddling was the cause for creating the MoRP group. Miller says his roll is a, "Bridge Builder", connecting paddlers worldwide with the Missouri River. Miller says, "I cherish the friendships and connections created through our paddling group, they are my family, my brothers and sisters, and I love them dearly".
Norm Miller is the founder of the Missouri River Paddlers group (MoRP). Miller fulfilled a childhood dream of tracing the westward journey of the Lewis & Clark trail during the bicentennial. Miller began his expedition from Alton dam on the Mississippi river, March 23rd. Miller ascended the Missouri over the next 17-weeks to Three Forks, Montana, then began a 4 week backpack journey over the continental divide through Montana to the Clearwater River in Idaho. From there, Miller descended the Clearwater, Snake and Columbia Rivers to the Pacific Ocean arriving on Sept, 27th. His detailed record keeping and love of paddling was the cause for creating the MoRP group. Miller says his roll is a, "Bridge Builder", connecting paddlers worldwide with the Missouri River. Miller says, "I cherish the friendships and connections created through our paddling group, they are my family, my brothers and sisters, and I love them dearly".
- Canoe &Kayak Magazine's, "Unfiltered", interview with Norm Miller. Click Here:
- Article: Wind Swept paddlers struggles through the Dakotas: Click Here:
- Article: Kayaking finds human skull: Click Here:
- Article: Norm nears Great Falls, 2004: Click Here:
- Norm Miller, "Revealed", interview & a bit of humor : Click Here.
- Norm's 2004 checklist. Lots of things to consider. Click Here.
- Canoe & Kayak article by Norm Miller on the Missouri National Recreational River. Click Here.
- Canoe & Kayak article on the Paddlers of Standing Rock Protest featuring Norm Miller. Click Here.
- Question & Answer with Norm Miller: Click Here
2004
On May 16th, Abe "Freight Train" Quinby, and Larry "Wolfhound", along with dog Midnight departed Three Forks Montana and paddled to New Orleans. They arrived at the arch in St. Louis after 130-days of paddling. Arriving on Sept 22nd was the same date that the Lewis & Clark Expedition arrived home also. While they were nearing Ft. Union, they met up with MoRP founder Norm Miller who was paddling up river. Abe has a detailed journal with photos of their expedition.
Freight Train & Midnights Blog Here:
Detailed Gear List of Basic items used Click Here:
Question & Answer with Abe about his expedition. Click Here:
Photo's below by Abe "Freight Train" Quinby:
On May 16th, Abe "Freight Train" Quinby, and Larry "Wolfhound", along with dog Midnight departed Three Forks Montana and paddled to New Orleans. They arrived at the arch in St. Louis after 130-days of paddling. Arriving on Sept 22nd was the same date that the Lewis & Clark Expedition arrived home also. While they were nearing Ft. Union, they met up with MoRP founder Norm Miller who was paddling up river. Abe has a detailed journal with photos of their expedition.
Freight Train & Midnights Blog Here:
Detailed Gear List of Basic items used Click Here:
Question & Answer with Abe about his expedition. Click Here:
Photo's below by Abe "Freight Train" Quinby:
2004
Texan, Craig Swanson kayaked solo from Three Fork, Montana to the Gulf of Mexico. Craig was camped on the edge of Wolf Point, Montana on Sioux reservation land one evening and was assaulted by 4 individuals who were trying to steal his kayak. The following day Swanson met up with MoRP founder Norm Miller at the boat ramp in Culbertson, Mt, where they camped together for 2-days. Swanson told Miller of the assault. Swanson had made arrangements in Williston, ND for dental work that was the result of the attack. Swanson continued on and met up with paddlers Abe Quinby and Larry-"Wolfhound", along with Churchill Clark on the Lower Missouri. Swanson's attack is mentioned in Dave Miller's, "The Complete Paddler", guidebook. Paddlers are encouraged to camp off of the reservation on the south side of the river once leaving Peck Dam. On a side note: Swanson had a portage cart made and manually hauled around all the dams including all 5 at Great Falls. Swanson paddled the waters between each of the dams at Great Falls and then hauled around each dam.
Texan, Craig Swanson kayaked solo from Three Fork, Montana to the Gulf of Mexico. Craig was camped on the edge of Wolf Point, Montana on Sioux reservation land one evening and was assaulted by 4 individuals who were trying to steal his kayak. The following day Swanson met up with MoRP founder Norm Miller at the boat ramp in Culbertson, Mt, where they camped together for 2-days. Swanson told Miller of the assault. Swanson had made arrangements in Williston, ND for dental work that was the result of the attack. Swanson continued on and met up with paddlers Abe Quinby and Larry-"Wolfhound", along with Churchill Clark on the Lower Missouri. Swanson's attack is mentioned in Dave Miller's, "The Complete Paddler", guidebook. Paddlers are encouraged to camp off of the reservation on the south side of the river once leaving Peck Dam. On a side note: Swanson had a portage cart made and manually hauled around all the dams including all 5 at Great Falls. Swanson paddled the waters between each of the dams at Great Falls and then hauled around each dam.
2004-05: Dennis & Jeri Stewart - Cross Country hike and paddle expedition.
During the L&C Bicentennial, this Higginsville, Mo couple hiked and paddled from Astoria to the Atlantic.
Dennis describes the journey in this report: Here
Photos below of Dennis and Jeri
2004
Bruce & Kathy Kurzhals from southern Michigan paddled from The Gates of the Rocky Mountains, near Helena, Mt, to St. Louis during the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial. Both paddled expedition Sea Winds built by Verlen Kruger. They camped with MoRP founder Norm Miller near Washburn, ND on a sandbar one evening and told stories well into the night.
Bruce & Kathy Kurzhals from southern Michigan paddled from The Gates of the Rocky Mountains, near Helena, Mt, to St. Louis during the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial. Both paddled expedition Sea Winds built by Verlen Kruger. They camped with MoRP founder Norm Miller near Washburn, ND on a sandbar one evening and told stories well into the night.
2004:
Neil Rosenblad, kayaked up the Missouri from St. Louis to Bismarck, ND during the L&C Bicentennial. He had intended to finish his upstream ascent of the Missouri in 2005, but was injured in a cycling accident. This author has tried to track Neil down but no information has been found. Neil began his journey paddling with Richard Sylvestri who was paddling from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Neal also met up with paddlers Craig Swanson, and Bruce and Kathy Kurzhals who were mentioned in previous expeditions above.
Neil Rosenblad's Daily Trail Journal and photos HERE:
Interesting stats about Neil's Journey Here:
Photos below by Neil Rosenblad. Click to enlarge.
Neil Rosenblad, kayaked up the Missouri from St. Louis to Bismarck, ND during the L&C Bicentennial. He had intended to finish his upstream ascent of the Missouri in 2005, but was injured in a cycling accident. This author has tried to track Neil down but no information has been found. Neil began his journey paddling with Richard Sylvestri who was paddling from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Neal also met up with paddlers Craig Swanson, and Bruce and Kathy Kurzhals who were mentioned in previous expeditions above.
Neil Rosenblad's Daily Trail Journal and photos HERE:
Interesting stats about Neil's Journey Here:
Photos below by Neil Rosenblad. Click to enlarge.
2004-05
Retired Firefighter Richard Silvestri paddled across America following the Lewis & Clark Trail.
He started at the Atlantic in 2003 and paddled to St. Louis. In 2004 he paddled up the Missouri to Bismarck, ND. Picking up where he left off in 2005, he continued up the Missouri and beyond to Pacific Ocean. The first few days out of St. Louis he paddled with Neil Rosenblad as mentioned in the previous expedition post.
Retired Firefighter Richard Silvestri paddled across America following the Lewis & Clark Trail.
He started at the Atlantic in 2003 and paddled to St. Louis. In 2004 he paddled up the Missouri to Bismarck, ND. Picking up where he left off in 2005, he continued up the Missouri and beyond to Pacific Ocean. The first few days out of St. Louis he paddled with Neil Rosenblad as mentioned in the previous expedition post.
Richard wrote a book about his journey entitled:
"A Paddle Across America-Searching for
Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery but Finding Us"
You can order the book by clicking the image to the right:
2002,03,04
Over three summers, David L. Miller kayaked from Montana to St. Louis mapping and logging information which would become The guidebook for paddling the Missouri River. Published in 2005, "The Complete Paddler: A guidebook for Paddling the Missouri river from the Headwaters to St. Louis, Missouri", has been carried down river by nearly all expeditions. Dave is a retired professor and Chair of the Dept. of Geography at the State University of New York's College at Cortland. Dave has connected with paddlers worldwide since his book was published, and is a key member of the MoRP. Dave has attended several paddlers rendezvous over the past few years and is currently in the process of updating his guidebook.
If you are planning to paddle all or part of the Missouri River,
you need to get The Complete Paddler: Click here to purchase a copy:
There are other options in obtaining this guidebook and that is through members of the MoRP who have
loaned or given the book away to get paid forward when competed.
2000
Richard Bennett
Lewis & Clark 2000-Retracing History Expedition.
Wood River, Illinois to the Pacific including an ascent of the Missouri River from April 8th to September 25th.
This was Richard's first time in a kayak on departure day.
"Why on earth would anyone want to paddle up the Missouri River?" That's the question I've been asked most since I began organizing this expedition. The reasons I chose to follow, as closely as possible, the original route of Lewis and Clark are several. First, as a historian, I wanted to get a sense of the challenges the Corps of Discovery faced when they embarked on their historic expedition in May of 1804. Second, while many have retraced the route going downstream, few have taken the upstream voyage. My hope is to join those few, and perhaps gain my fifteen minutes of fame.... Third, I was intrigued by the personal challenge. Did I, as a 50-year-old man, have the strength and stamina to complete such an expedition? Call it one of those male mid-life crisis phenomena. The sources of my inspiration were Stephen Ambrose's biography of Lewis, "Undaunted Courage", and Ken Burns' documentary, which sought to recreate the original expedition. Both of these works were historical in perspective. My aim is to focus on comparative history : what are the historical and ecological changes that have taken place since 1804 - 1805, and how do we explain them? Most of these changes are obvious : the land has largely become farm and ranch land; towns, villages and cities have grown; and the river has been dammed and channeled. Except in the more remote regions of Montana and Idaho, I expect to see a vastly different country from what Lewis and Clark encountered." Richard Bennett -April 8, 2000.
Richard's Journal, Gear List, and more photos can be found on his website: CLICK HERE
Photos & news clippings below by Richard Bennett-Click to enlarge.
Richard Bennett
Lewis & Clark 2000-Retracing History Expedition.
Wood River, Illinois to the Pacific including an ascent of the Missouri River from April 8th to September 25th.
This was Richard's first time in a kayak on departure day.
"Why on earth would anyone want to paddle up the Missouri River?" That's the question I've been asked most since I began organizing this expedition. The reasons I chose to follow, as closely as possible, the original route of Lewis and Clark are several. First, as a historian, I wanted to get a sense of the challenges the Corps of Discovery faced when they embarked on their historic expedition in May of 1804. Second, while many have retraced the route going downstream, few have taken the upstream voyage. My hope is to join those few, and perhaps gain my fifteen minutes of fame.... Third, I was intrigued by the personal challenge. Did I, as a 50-year-old man, have the strength and stamina to complete such an expedition? Call it one of those male mid-life crisis phenomena. The sources of my inspiration were Stephen Ambrose's biography of Lewis, "Undaunted Courage", and Ken Burns' documentary, which sought to recreate the original expedition. Both of these works were historical in perspective. My aim is to focus on comparative history : what are the historical and ecological changes that have taken place since 1804 - 1805, and how do we explain them? Most of these changes are obvious : the land has largely become farm and ranch land; towns, villages and cities have grown; and the river has been dammed and channeled. Except in the more remote regions of Montana and Idaho, I expect to see a vastly different country from what Lewis and Clark encountered." Richard Bennett -April 8, 2000.
Richard's Journal, Gear List, and more photos can be found on his website: CLICK HERE
Photos & news clippings below by Richard Bennett-Click to enlarge.
2000 - "The Girls" from St. Louis Expedition:
Linda SLoss & Barbara Rice
Three Forks to St. Charles 68-days
St. Louis residents Barbara Rice (59), and Linda Sloss, (51) departed from Three Forks, Montana on June 2, 2000. After 68-days of paddling they arrived in St. Charles greeted by a hundred friends and family including Rice's grandchildren. 'We're not really canoest." Sloss said. Their worst enemy on the off the water was the wind. One evening near Brownville, Nebraska a storm brought 70mph winds which toppled a tree nearly landing on their tent. River angels offered them food including one woman in St.Marie, Montana who fixed them a gourmet meal that included wine and cavier.
Sept 30, 2000, Mark Hamilton arrives at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis after a 29-month journey retracing the route of Lewis & Clark. Hamilton made a rowing dory and departed from Pittsburgh, Pa, in 1996. He rowed down the Ohio and up the Mississippi to Wood River, Illinois, where he ended for the season. Skipping 1997, he returned the spring of 1998, traded his dory for a 16 1/2 foot kayak and paddled up the Missouri river to Washburn, ND. He returned in 1998 and paddled from Washburn to Dillion, Montana. At Dillion he purchased a 20-year old pack mule. The pair traveled over the mountains for over a month to Orifino, Idaho, where he once again switched to his dory for the descent of the Clearwater, Snake and Columbia rivers to Astoria, Oregon. In the spring of 2000, he ascended the Columbia and Snake, hiked over the divide to the Jefferson, portaged to the Yellowstone river and paddling back to St. Louis.
Mark has recently uploaded many videos to Youtube of his expedition, please watch and subscribe! Youtube Channel
Below are several newspaper accounts of Mark Hamilton's journey.
Bismarck Tribune, October 1998; Click here:
The Independent Record, July 1999: Click here:
The World Press, April 2000: Click here:
St.Louis Dispatch. October 2000: Click here:
Update- November 2023: Mark has a new book of poetry regarding his upstream paddle on the Mississippi from his 2000 journey. You can order a copy at: Upstream
2000- Dean Christensen
Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. Dean started in 1999.
2000-
William Foster
Ft. Benton, Mt to the Gulf of Mexico. Not sure any details if he had made his goal.
Page #2 of newspaper story.
1999:
Ron Severs- Three Forks to Wood River, Ill- 43-Days, Severs, from Sawyer, Minnesota slipped his kayak in the Missouri River at Three Forks, Mt on July 7th and arrived at the confluence with the Mississippi at Wood River, Illinois 43-days later.
Ron said, "There are days when you say, 'I don't need this.' But those always come about mid afternoon. You learn to never make any decisions from 1-4 p.m. You just shut up to yourself and paddle."
Severs paddled a 17-ft Perception Sea Lion kayak. He averaged 47-miles a day on the Upper Missouri and an average of 85-miles during the final 10-days.
While looking to portage the dams at Great Falls, Severs stashed his kayak in the bushes and started to walk along the road towards the visitors center. Passing a scenic overlook was a car pulled off covered with kayak stickers and a kayak rack on the roof. He walked over to the driver who was having a cup of coffee. Severs said, "I've got this kayak down in the weeds. You don't know anyone who can take me around these dams, do you?" The guy said, "I'll take you around".
"This guy knows me from no one. He takes me to his house, lets me shower, feeds me, then drives me around Great Falls. What were the fates in the universe that put him and I in the same place at the same time?"
Ron Severs- Three Forks to Wood River, Ill- 43-Days, Severs, from Sawyer, Minnesota slipped his kayak in the Missouri River at Three Forks, Mt on July 7th and arrived at the confluence with the Mississippi at Wood River, Illinois 43-days later.
Ron said, "There are days when you say, 'I don't need this.' But those always come about mid afternoon. You learn to never make any decisions from 1-4 p.m. You just shut up to yourself and paddle."
Severs paddled a 17-ft Perception Sea Lion kayak. He averaged 47-miles a day on the Upper Missouri and an average of 85-miles during the final 10-days.
While looking to portage the dams at Great Falls, Severs stashed his kayak in the bushes and started to walk along the road towards the visitors center. Passing a scenic overlook was a car pulled off covered with kayak stickers and a kayak rack on the roof. He walked over to the driver who was having a cup of coffee. Severs said, "I've got this kayak down in the weeds. You don't know anyone who can take me around these dams, do you?" The guy said, "I'll take you around".
"This guy knows me from no one. He takes me to his house, lets me shower, feeds me, then drives me around Great Falls. What were the fates in the universe that put him and I in the same place at the same time?"
1998: Bob "Rocky" Ferera canoes from Montana to St. Louis possibly the Gulf of Mexico. Not much more information on his journey can be found yet. Here is an article below when he arrived in Yankton.
|
1995: Don Besom-
Three Forks, Mt to St. Louis. I believe Don skipped some of the large reservoirs. We are currently trying to track him down. |
1995:
P.J. Wentzien and Tim LeBarge canoe from
Three Forks to St. Louis.
They departed on May 19th and arrived on August 11th, a total of 85-days.
Below Morony Dam, at Great Falls, their canoe swamped, flipped and dashed into the rocks. They hauled the damaged canoe overland until some friendly stranger took them to his house. The family fed them and helped find someone to repair their canoe.
Tim LeBarge is the 3rd great grandson of the famed steamboat Captain, Joseph LeBarge, who was one of the most famous on the entire river.
The young men said they think the gleam they saw in the eyes of many they talked to indicated interest and maybe envy.
In a letter to his family, Tim wrote: "They start daydreaming right then and there as they seem to stare past us instead of looking as us as we speak. I guess for these people, they want at least to give something to a couple of young guys who have actually set out to do it. It make me happy not only to do the trip myself, but to provide a dream for another man."
Tim LeBarge is a member of the MoRP group and is a professional photographer in Portland, Oregon. He has since paddled portions of the Missouri for a second time and you can see some of these photos on his website:
Tim's Website Here:
P.J. Wentzien and Tim LeBarge canoe from
Three Forks to St. Louis.
They departed on May 19th and arrived on August 11th, a total of 85-days.
Below Morony Dam, at Great Falls, their canoe swamped, flipped and dashed into the rocks. They hauled the damaged canoe overland until some friendly stranger took them to his house. The family fed them and helped find someone to repair their canoe.
Tim LeBarge is the 3rd great grandson of the famed steamboat Captain, Joseph LeBarge, who was one of the most famous on the entire river.
The young men said they think the gleam they saw in the eyes of many they talked to indicated interest and maybe envy.
In a letter to his family, Tim wrote: "They start daydreaming right then and there as they seem to stare past us instead of looking as us as we speak. I guess for these people, they want at least to give something to a couple of young guys who have actually set out to do it. It make me happy not only to do the trip myself, but to provide a dream for another man."
Tim LeBarge is a member of the MoRP group and is a professional photographer in Portland, Oregon. He has since paddled portions of the Missouri for a second time and you can see some of these photos on his website:
Tim's Website Here:
1995:
Patrick Dobson: Tired of an unfulfilling life in Kansas City, Missouri, Patrick Dobson left his job and set off on foot across the Great Plains. After two and a half months, 1,450 miles, and numerous encounters with the people of the heartland, Dobson arrived in Helena, Montana. He then set a canoe on the Missouri and asked the river to carry him safely back to Kansas City, hoping this enigmatic watercourse would help reconnect him with his life.
In Canoeing the Great Plains, Dobson recounts his journey on the Missouri, the country’s longest river. Dobson, a novice canoeist when he begins his trip, faces the Missouri at a time of dangerous flooding and must learn to trust himself to the powerful flows of the river and its stark and serenely beautiful countryside. He meets a cast of characters along the river who assist him both with the mundane tasks of canoeing—portaging around dams and reservoirs and finding campsites—and with his own personal transformation. Mishaps, mistakes, and misadventures plague his trip, but over time the river shifts from being a frightening adversary to a welcome companion.
Canoeing the Great Plains won the 2016 Thorpe Menn Award for Literary Excellence and the 2016 High Plains Book Award in creative nonfiction.
Patrick Dobson: Tired of an unfulfilling life in Kansas City, Missouri, Patrick Dobson left his job and set off on foot across the Great Plains. After two and a half months, 1,450 miles, and numerous encounters with the people of the heartland, Dobson arrived in Helena, Montana. He then set a canoe on the Missouri and asked the river to carry him safely back to Kansas City, hoping this enigmatic watercourse would help reconnect him with his life.
In Canoeing the Great Plains, Dobson recounts his journey on the Missouri, the country’s longest river. Dobson, a novice canoeist when he begins his trip, faces the Missouri at a time of dangerous flooding and must learn to trust himself to the powerful flows of the river and its stark and serenely beautiful countryside. He meets a cast of characters along the river who assist him both with the mundane tasks of canoeing—portaging around dams and reservoirs and finding campsites—and with his own personal transformation. Mishaps, mistakes, and misadventures plague his trip, but over time the river shifts from being a frightening adversary to a welcome companion.
Canoeing the Great Plains won the 2016 Thorpe Menn Award for Literary Excellence and the 2016 High Plains Book Award in creative nonfiction.
Purchase Patrick's books here: Click here:
Fantastic video presentation by
Patrick at the Big Muddy Speaker Series.
A must listen! Click Here:
Wyoming Public Radio Interview with Patrick:
Click here:
1994
Joe Glickman: Montana to New York: Joe launched his Kruger Sea Wind at Clark Canyon Dam, on the Beaverhead River on April, 8th. He arrived in Sioux City, Iowa 54-days later. Once he arrived at the Mississippi, Glickman paddled up the Mississippi to the Illinois and DesPlains rivers to Chicago. Once he arrived in Chicago, he traded in his Sea Wind for a lightweight surf ski kayak and was joined by 2-dozen other kayakers in the Finlandia Clean Water Challenge. That race was a 1000 miles from Chicago through Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York.
Joe paddled and raced all over the country in the years following. He was a huge competitor and love by many. Sadly, Joe passed away on May 22, 2015 from Pancreatic cancer. Hundreds of his friends have honored Joe by placing a sticker on their boat which reads: "OMMFG" ~ One More Mile For the Glicker. Below are a few articles on Joe.
Joe Glickman: Montana to New York: Joe launched his Kruger Sea Wind at Clark Canyon Dam, on the Beaverhead River on April, 8th. He arrived in Sioux City, Iowa 54-days later. Once he arrived at the Mississippi, Glickman paddled up the Mississippi to the Illinois and DesPlains rivers to Chicago. Once he arrived in Chicago, he traded in his Sea Wind for a lightweight surf ski kayak and was joined by 2-dozen other kayakers in the Finlandia Clean Water Challenge. That race was a 1000 miles from Chicago through Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York.
Joe paddled and raced all over the country in the years following. He was a huge competitor and love by many. Sadly, Joe passed away on May 22, 2015 from Pancreatic cancer. Hundreds of his friends have honored Joe by placing a sticker on their boat which reads: "OMMFG" ~ One More Mile For the Glicker. Below are a few articles on Joe.
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1993-94
Jim & Lisa Lisius: Crossed the U.S in an 18ft canoe in 14- months. They started at the mouth of the Columbia River on Feb, 1, 1993 and arrived at the Atlantic on April 10, 1994. This journey included a descent of the Missouri river from which they portaged over from the Snake river. |
1992 - Mike Smith: Red Rock Lake, Montana to Portland Michigan
3-Months
Mike Smith, paddled a solo decked Sea Wind canoe built by Verlen Kruger. He started on the Red Rock River and flipped the first day on a barbed wire fence stretched across the river. His departure date was June 15th. He paddled the Red Rock, Beaverhead, Jefferson, Missouri, Mississippi, Illinois, Des Plaines and Grand Rivers.
Mike's Story Covered in Magazine: Click Here:
1992:
John Wade (29), began his journey in New York Harbor paddling up the Hudson river to the Erie Canal, down the Ohio, up the Mississippi to the Missouri River. From St. Louis he paddled up the Missouri and making a left turn at the confluence with the Yellowstone River. He paddled up the Yellowstone to Pompey's Pillar where he supposedly portaged 200-miles to the Snake River in Jackson, Wyoming. This author recently was given a copy of Wade's handwritten journal describing his trip.
Wade quit his job as a pilot for KittyHawk Air Cargo, because they would not give him time off to do the journey. He purchased the 20-ft green and white Seda kayak as his means of travel. He began on April 5th at the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York City. Day 65 found him in St. Louis, Mo, 20-pounds lighter. His original plan was to ascend the Missouri all the way to Three Forks. He felt he probably would not make the Pacific by snow fall and would resume the following spring from where ver he left off from. By August of 1992 he had reached Williston, ND and lost about 30-lbs. A newspaper story out of there stated that, "The scariest thing was called his boss to quit my job so I could take this trip. It wasn't fantasy anymore, it was reality."
Expedition Facts: Taken from the actual journals of John Wade.
John Wade (29), began his journey in New York Harbor paddling up the Hudson river to the Erie Canal, down the Ohio, up the Mississippi to the Missouri River. From St. Louis he paddled up the Missouri and making a left turn at the confluence with the Yellowstone River. He paddled up the Yellowstone to Pompey's Pillar where he supposedly portaged 200-miles to the Snake River in Jackson, Wyoming. This author recently was given a copy of Wade's handwritten journal describing his trip.
Wade quit his job as a pilot for KittyHawk Air Cargo, because they would not give him time off to do the journey. He purchased the 20-ft green and white Seda kayak as his means of travel. He began on April 5th at the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York City. Day 65 found him in St. Louis, Mo, 20-pounds lighter. His original plan was to ascend the Missouri all the way to Three Forks. He felt he probably would not make the Pacific by snow fall and would resume the following spring from where ver he left off from. By August of 1992 he had reached Williston, ND and lost about 30-lbs. A newspaper story out of there stated that, "The scariest thing was called his boss to quit my job so I could take this trip. It wasn't fantasy anymore, it was reality."
Expedition Facts: Taken from the actual journals of John Wade.
- Distance: 5257 Miles
- Duration: 225 days.
- Sixteen Rivers taveled.
- Longest Portage: 247 Miles by cart from Pompeys Pillar, Montana to Flagg Ranch, Wyoming.
- Highest Point: 8632 Ft.
- Temperature Extremes: Low: 10F, High: 101F
- Total Cost: $8500.00
1989: Travels with Groucho Expedition.
Mark Spitzer and his dog Groucho made the 1st known decent of the Missouri River watershed from "Source to Sea". Mark started at Brower's Spring on June 13, 1989 and arrived 7 months and one day later at the Gulf of Mexico. It had first been believed that Aussie Mark Kalch had made the 1st Source to Sea descent in 2012. Spitzer paddled a Wenonah canoe and walked all the miles between dams and the upper Hellroaring Creek where the Missouri watershed starts. Spitzer's story was recently discovered and he was interviewed by MoRP founder Norm Miller in December of 2019. Mark is currently in the process of publishing a book on his historic account. During the decent he wrote a series of stories for the Dickenson, ND newspaper and others.
NEWS: Mark finally published his book entitled, 'Waterlogue" in October of 2023! To order a must read copy click LINK. Photos below by Mark Spitzer during his Source to Sea descent of the Missouri watershed.
Mark Spitzer and his dog Groucho made the 1st known decent of the Missouri River watershed from "Source to Sea". Mark started at Brower's Spring on June 13, 1989 and arrived 7 months and one day later at the Gulf of Mexico. It had first been believed that Aussie Mark Kalch had made the 1st Source to Sea descent in 2012. Spitzer paddled a Wenonah canoe and walked all the miles between dams and the upper Hellroaring Creek where the Missouri watershed starts. Spitzer's story was recently discovered and he was interviewed by MoRP founder Norm Miller in December of 2019. Mark is currently in the process of publishing a book on his historic account. During the decent he wrote a series of stories for the Dickenson, ND newspaper and others.
NEWS: Mark finally published his book entitled, 'Waterlogue" in October of 2023! To order a must read copy click LINK. Photos below by Mark Spitzer during his Source to Sea descent of the Missouri watershed.
1989
Three Helena, Montan men attempt to paddle to New York City. Bob Siloti, Stacy Henry, and Scott Lucero raising money for the American Lung Association. As of this writing, the author is in touch with one of the members about the details of this expedition. I believe only one member finished. Stay tuned for more information. (NM-2019)
Three Helena, Montan men attempt to paddle to New York City. Bob Siloti, Stacy Henry, and Scott Lucero raising money for the American Lung Association. As of this writing, the author is in touch with one of the members about the details of this expedition. I believe only one member finished. Stay tuned for more information. (NM-2019)
1989:
"A Journey Back to the Beginning Expedition". Group retraces the famed Ashley Expedition down the Wind, Bighorn, Yellowstone, Missouri rivers to St. Louis. Paddlers and historic re-enactors, Allen Maybee, Roger Melton, Rita Healey, Shana LoLomia, Wayne Montgomery and William Sayer partake in this major Centennial state's project.
News story Page #1: Click Here:
Part-2: Click Here:
Great Falls newspaper story & map: Click Here:
"A Journey Back to the Beginning Expedition". Group retraces the famed Ashley Expedition down the Wind, Bighorn, Yellowstone, Missouri rivers to St. Louis. Paddlers and historic re-enactors, Allen Maybee, Roger Melton, Rita Healey, Shana LoLomia, Wayne Montgomery and William Sayer partake in this major Centennial state's project.
News story Page #1: Click Here:
Part-2: Click Here:
Great Falls newspaper story & map: Click Here:
1988:
Sioux Center, Iowa resident Bill Baumgart, started from Three Forks, Montana on May 21st and tragically drowned just upstream of Culbertson, Montana.
This website has been dedicated in his honor, and the message he carried.
See our Paddlers Memorial Page and read Bill's tragic story there.
In 1987 Bill did a shack down decent from Bismarck to Sioux City. That year he meet expedition paddler Karl Adams near Chamberlin, SD. Adam was mid way through his cross continent kayak expedition from Astoria, Oregon to Miami. Adam wrote about his time spent with Bill Baumgart in his book, Wake of the Wind Dancer. See Karl's story below in the 1987 section.
Two News Clippings below:
Sioux Center, Iowa resident Bill Baumgart, started from Three Forks, Montana on May 21st and tragically drowned just upstream of Culbertson, Montana.
This website has been dedicated in his honor, and the message he carried.
See our Paddlers Memorial Page and read Bill's tragic story there.
In 1987 Bill did a shack down decent from Bismarck to Sioux City. That year he meet expedition paddler Karl Adams near Chamberlin, SD. Adam was mid way through his cross continent kayak expedition from Astoria, Oregon to Miami. Adam wrote about his time spent with Bill Baumgart in his book, Wake of the Wind Dancer. See Karl's story below in the 1987 section.
Two News Clippings below:
1988:
World Record attempt to paddle from Three Forks, to St. Louis. What started out as a team/group effort began to fall about after just a few days. Scott Rader & Keith Kawecki continue despite challenges and stolen canoe. They end their attempt near Washburn, ND.
World Record attempt to paddle from Three Forks, to St. Louis. What started out as a team/group effort began to fall about after just a few days. Scott Rader & Keith Kawecki continue despite challenges and stolen canoe. They end their attempt near Washburn, ND.
1987: Pacific to Atlantic Canoe Expedition- Phil Buck & Susan Miller.
They started on May, 25th from Astoria, Or. This was the 2nd known tandem expedition to across the USA at the time.
They departed the same year as Karl Adams first crossing of the USA by kayak.
Phil Buck has since been an accomplished mountaineer, being the first to climb the highest peak in all the countries of North, South and Central America.
He's made a successful crossing of the Pacific from Chile to Easter island by a reed boat designed similar to Thor Heyedahl.
In 2020 he is making an attempt to cross the Pacific via a reed boat.
They started on May, 25th from Astoria, Or. This was the 2nd known tandem expedition to across the USA at the time.
They departed the same year as Karl Adams first crossing of the USA by kayak.
Phil Buck has since been an accomplished mountaineer, being the first to climb the highest peak in all the countries of North, South and Central America.
He's made a successful crossing of the Pacific from Chile to Easter island by a reed boat designed similar to Thor Heyedahl.
In 2020 he is making an attempt to cross the Pacific via a reed boat.
1987:
Karl Adams makes history by becoming the first person to solo kayak from the Pacific to the Atlantic through the US. Karl wrote a book about his expedition entitled, "Wake of the Wind Dancer". During his cross country paddle trip, he met paddler Bill Baumgart who was paddling from Bismarck to Sioux City in preparation for a longer trip in 1988 down the entire Missouri. Bill tragically died during that journey. You can read more about Bill's story above under, 1988 as well as in our Paddler's Memorial Page.
Order Karl's book here: Click
Four News Papers Stories Below
1987 Newspaper story on Karl's expedition: Click Here:
Man paddles kayak across the USA, News clip: Click Here:
Additional News article and photo; Click Here:
Oregon Man Paddles Through article: Click Here:
1984-85:
Forty three year old Dean Cowless departs Portland, Oregon on June 21, 1984 in 16 1/2 ft. canoe/kayak. He sailed, paddled and portaged to Florida. The newspaper story says he skipped South Dakota because 'it was too boring'.
Dean Cowless story below:
1984
Paddling two Kruger designed decked canoes, Michigan paddlers Bev Gordon and Mary Schmidt break record descent to New Orleans.
They began below Clark Canyon reservoir on the Beaverhead River in Montana on July 4th. They paddled and portaged down the Beaverhead, Jefferson, Missouri and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans. They arrived on their 98th day.
Paddling two Kruger designed decked canoes, Michigan paddlers Bev Gordon and Mary Schmidt break record descent to New Orleans.
They began below Clark Canyon reservoir on the Beaverhead River in Montana on July 4th. They paddled and portaged down the Beaverhead, Jefferson, Missouri and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans. They arrived on their 98th day.
News clippings on Mary and Bev's journey below:
1983: Harvey Van Patten, Tresa Burcher, and dog Josephine.
Three Forks, Montana to Tawas, Michigan, 128-days. The duo and their dog departed on May 17th at the headwaters of the Missouri. Once they reached the confluence with the Mississippi, they paddled upstream to the Illinois river, Lake Michigan and along the coast of Michigan. Once they reached the Manistee river, they paddled upstream and portaged over to Grayling, Michigan on the AuSable river then downstream to Lake Huron. From Lake Huron they paddled the coast to Tawas, Michigan. They were planning to get married during the trip, but spent the marriage license money on food. VanPatten built the 20 foot canoe out of redwood strip.
Images below of the duo and their route. Click to enlarge.
1982:
Three St. Louis paddlers descend Missouri River from Three Forks, Montana raising money for their local hospital. Michael Lange, Sam Sanfilippo, and Jack Kuhn, each paddled their own fiberglass canoe. Lange said of the journey, "Steinbeck said a man doesn't take a trip, a trip takes a man."
They started with one additional paddler. Schuler Kingsland lost his canoe in rough water about two weeks into the journey and went back home to St. Louis.
Several news paper stories below:
Article #1 Click Here:
Article #2 Click Here:
Article #3 Click Here:
Article #4 Click Here:
1981
Modern Lewis & Clark counterparts head east. Gene Downs, Craig Zuger, Ann Samsel, and Scott Roberts paddled and portage from Astoria, Oregon to St. Louis. They departed March 23 and arrived in St. Louis on Sept 21st.
News article #1: Click Here:
News article #2: Sioux City Journal : Click Here:
News article #3: Click Here:
Modern Lewis & Clark counterparts head east. Gene Downs, Craig Zuger, Ann Samsel, and Scott Roberts paddled and portage from Astoria, Oregon to St. Louis. They departed March 23 and arrived in St. Louis on Sept 21st.
News article #1: Click Here:
News article #2: Sioux City Journal : Click Here:
News article #3: Click Here:
1980
Steve Landick & Verlen Kruger
Lima, Montana to St. Louis.
April 29-June 4th, 37-days, 2,575 miles.
This is the fastest known descent down the entire Missouri river. This journey was only the start of what would become the longest paddle trip ever undertaken by anyone. Landick and Kruger spent 3 years paddling 28,000 miles throughout North America. Dubbed the "Ultimate Canoe Challenge", the duo paddled decked canoes built by Kruger.
Expedition facts below.
Steve Landick & Verlen Kruger
Lima, Montana to St. Louis.
April 29-June 4th, 37-days, 2,575 miles.
This is the fastest known descent down the entire Missouri river. This journey was only the start of what would become the longest paddle trip ever undertaken by anyone. Landick and Kruger spent 3 years paddling 28,000 miles throughout North America. Dubbed the "Ultimate Canoe Challenge", the duo paddled decked canoes built by Kruger.
Expedition facts below.
- 935 total days paddling
- Total expedition: 3 years, 7-months and 16 days.
- Greatest distance in one day: 173 miles
- Distance traveled in the US: 18,200 miles
- Distance traveled in Canada: 7,600 miles
- Distance traveled in Mexico: 2,200 miles
- Distance paddled upstream: 6,950 miles
- 9,140 miles of ocean paddling: Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic
- Distance portaged manually: 560-miles (approximately 1,500 total miles covered on foot because of double hauling on most portages.
- First ascent of the Colorado river from the Sea of Cortez to Farson, Wyoming: Upstream through the Grand Canyon.
- Canoe & Kayak article: The Inside Line with Steve Landick: Click Here
- Canoe & Kayak video interview with Steve Landick: Click Here:
- Dupont promo video of Verlen Kruger during the UCC: Click here
- Ultimate Canoe Challenge Book: Order Here
- Verlen Kruger Biograpy: Order Here
1979
Greg & Cathy Jensen: Honeymoon couple paddled from Astoria, Oregon to Savannah, Georgia.
The Jensen's paddled an aluminum canoe and began on May 2nd. After 225-days they arrived on December 12th on Tybee Island, Georgia.
Bismarck Tribune Story: Part 1: Click here
Part 2: Bismarck Tribune story: Click here
People Magazine story: Click here
1978
Wisconsin resident, Mark McCorkle departs on multi year expedition. This was Mark's 2nd descent down the Missouri river, his first being in 1975 that took him to the Gulf of Mexico. His 1978 would become one of the longest expeditions undertaken by anyone. He departed from Astoria, Oregon on June 1st, and paddled up the Columbia and Snake rivers to Lewiston, Idaho, where he put his boat on a make shift portage cart and walked to Dillon, Montana for a descent down the Jefferson, Missouri and Mississippi rivers to the Gulf of Mexico.
He followed the Gulf and Atlantic-- intercoastal waterway to New York City, where he ascended the Hudson river to the St. Lawrence seaway, then on to Montreal, Canada, where he arrived exactly 1-year from departure. He continued on to International Falls, MN, where he took a year off to work. In 1980 he resumed his journey from International Falls across Canada to Alaska, then descended the Yukon river to the Bering Sea. This journey was about 14,000 miles in length. During his journey across Canada, he paddled with Verlen Kruger and Steve Landick during their 28,000-mile expedition throughout N. America. Kruger had built McCorkle's boat in 1977. The Loon design was also paddled by Kruger.
Bismarck Tribune Sept, 1978 article
Wisconsin resident, Mark McCorkle departs on multi year expedition. This was Mark's 2nd descent down the Missouri river, his first being in 1975 that took him to the Gulf of Mexico. His 1978 would become one of the longest expeditions undertaken by anyone. He departed from Astoria, Oregon on June 1st, and paddled up the Columbia and Snake rivers to Lewiston, Idaho, where he put his boat on a make shift portage cart and walked to Dillon, Montana for a descent down the Jefferson, Missouri and Mississippi rivers to the Gulf of Mexico.
He followed the Gulf and Atlantic-- intercoastal waterway to New York City, where he ascended the Hudson river to the St. Lawrence seaway, then on to Montreal, Canada, where he arrived exactly 1-year from departure. He continued on to International Falls, MN, where he took a year off to work. In 1980 he resumed his journey from International Falls across Canada to Alaska, then descended the Yukon river to the Bering Sea. This journey was about 14,000 miles in length. During his journey across Canada, he paddled with Verlen Kruger and Steve Landick during their 28,000-mile expedition throughout N. America. Kruger had built McCorkle's boat in 1977. The Loon design was also paddled by Kruger.
Bismarck Tribune Sept, 1978 article
1977
Nicholas Francis: Three Forks to New Orleans. In 1977 Francis, a lecturer in Paris, paddled his kayak the entire distance to raise funds for cancer research in England--and succeeded in setting a record for solo kayaking. The expedition was underfinanced and loosely organized; the estimated time of eight weeks stretched to five months. Promoting the American Cancer Society's "Great Smoke Out"
- Bismarck News article: Click Here:
- News article and photos St. Louis Post: Click here:
Click the photo to the right to order Mississippi Madness.
1976-77
Stan Sroka: Springfield, Mass to Astoria, Oregon including an ascent of the Missouri river. Sroka paddled 22-rivers during his expedition. Once he reached Great Falls, he portaged over to the Blackfoot river near Lincoln, MT before continuing west to the Pacific.
Stan Sroka: Springfield, Mass to Astoria, Oregon including an ascent of the Missouri river. Sroka paddled 22-rivers during his expedition. Once he reached Great Falls, he portaged over to the Blackfoot river near Lincoln, MT before continuing west to the Pacific.
- Lincoln Journal Star article: Click Here
- Iowa City Press article: Click Here
- Great Falls Tribune article: Click Here
- The Bennington Banner article: Click Here
1976
Leavenworth, KS resident, Bill McCullough paddled from Three Forks, Mt to New Orleans over a 17-week period. He was joined by his wife Penny the last 1400-miles from their home in Kansas to New Orleans.
Here are a few newspaper stories about the journey:
Click each
1975:
Paddler's Mark McCorkle, Keith, Dale, Scott, and Joel Whitmer, descend the Missouri river from Three Forks, Montana to the New Orleans. The two canoes were dubbed, "Genesis", and "Spirit of Pembine". In three years, Mark McCorkle would again descend the Missouri river, this time on a 14,000 miles odyssey through N. America.
Paddler's Mark McCorkle, Keith, Dale, Scott, and Joel Whitmer, descend the Missouri river from Three Forks, Montana to the New Orleans. The two canoes were dubbed, "Genesis", and "Spirit of Pembine". In three years, Mark McCorkle would again descend the Missouri river, this time on a 14,000 miles odyssey through N. America.
1974
Bill Burnham & Tim Chamberlain departed on July 8th from the border of Yellowstone National Park on the Madison river and paddled their aluminum canoe to the Gulf of Mexico. They arrived on November 2nd. Their 117-day decent is one of the first known to have started on the Madison river, one of the three main tributaries of the Missouri.
Click image to the left to read the article.
Bismarck Tribune Story:
Long Beach Independent article:
Bill Burnham & Tim Chamberlain departed on July 8th from the border of Yellowstone National Park on the Madison river and paddled their aluminum canoe to the Gulf of Mexico. They arrived on November 2nd. Their 117-day decent is one of the first known to have started on the Madison river, one of the three main tributaries of the Missouri.
Click image to the left to read the article.
Bismarck Tribune Story:
Long Beach Independent article:
1973
Five explorers retrace Lewis & Clark Expedition: Starting at Ft. Clatsop on the Columbia river, they paddled up the Columbia and Snake, portaged overland to the Missouri then down the river to St. Louis. From late May to November 19th, the group endured many hardships including one canoe capsizing a total of 22-times. The paddlers included Gary Kimsey, Clay Asher, Mike Cochran, Mike Wien and Bob Miller. Cochran was a cartoonist who documented the entire trip in cartoons.
Below are a few articles on their expedition.
Ogden Standard Examiner:
Gary Kimsey Blog on the journey:
Gary Kimsey article on a near mishap during their trip:
Below are 2 of Mike Cochran's cartoons of their expedition. Click to see full view. Mike moved to Santa Fe, NM after the expedition, but later moved to Palm Springs, CA. In December of 2015, he boarded a bus to head to New Mexico and has never been seen again. Law enforcement had been notified but no clues to his wereabouts have surfaced.
Cartoon images below created by Mike Cochran during their expedition. Click to enlarge.
Five explorers retrace Lewis & Clark Expedition: Starting at Ft. Clatsop on the Columbia river, they paddled up the Columbia and Snake, portaged overland to the Missouri then down the river to St. Louis. From late May to November 19th, the group endured many hardships including one canoe capsizing a total of 22-times. The paddlers included Gary Kimsey, Clay Asher, Mike Cochran, Mike Wien and Bob Miller. Cochran was a cartoonist who documented the entire trip in cartoons.
Below are a few articles on their expedition.
Ogden Standard Examiner:
Gary Kimsey Blog on the journey:
Gary Kimsey article on a near mishap during their trip:
Below are 2 of Mike Cochran's cartoons of their expedition. Click to see full view. Mike moved to Santa Fe, NM after the expedition, but later moved to Palm Springs, CA. In December of 2015, he boarded a bus to head to New Mexico and has never been seen again. Law enforcement had been notified but no clues to his wereabouts have surfaced.
Cartoon images below created by Mike Cochran during their expedition. Click to enlarge.
1966:
Jimmy Curness of Wheeling, WV, and John Davidson, of Carlisle, PA., kayaked from Astoria, Oregon to Washington, DC, including a descent down the Missouri river. The men departed on May 19th and arrived at the Nations Capital on November 18th. They estimated the cost of their trip around $450 each. They portaged their kayak, named, "River Pig", from Kamiah, Idaho over to Great Falls, Montana.
Newspaper links below:
The Standard Speaker-Nov,1966: Click here:
The Statesman Journal: Click here:
Lebanon Daily News: Click here:
1964:
"Miss Rumpus Room Canoe", paddled by, Woody Guillot,39, and Walter Karas, 56, from Butte, Montana. They set out from Wisdom, Montana on the Big Hole River, intending to paddle to New Orleans. At Great Falls, Karas decided canoeing was no way to travel, so Guillot started out alone. They started out in October and winter set in early, halting the journey. Guillot ended up stopping and working for the Lewiston Daily News in Montana for the winter, hoping to pick up in the spring. As of this writing, the author has not found any information if the trip continued on in the spring.
Article below from launch day.
The Montana Standard: Click here:
"Miss Rumpus Room Canoe", paddled by, Woody Guillot,39, and Walter Karas, 56, from Butte, Montana. They set out from Wisdom, Montana on the Big Hole River, intending to paddle to New Orleans. At Great Falls, Karas decided canoeing was no way to travel, so Guillot started out alone. They started out in October and winter set in early, halting the journey. Guillot ended up stopping and working for the Lewiston Daily News in Montana for the winter, hoping to pick up in the spring. As of this writing, the author has not found any information if the trip continued on in the spring.
Article below from launch day.
The Montana Standard: Click here:
1963
Norwegians, Kaare Anderson and Bjorn Braaten both from Oslo, kayaked from the mouth of the Columbia River to New Orleans. They named their kayak, "Askeladden", after a Norwegian folk tale about "a small man who succeeds where all others fail." They started at Astoria, Oregon on May, 6th and arrived in New Orleans on December 2nd. Karre Anderson became an artist and created a sculpture as a gift to the city of New Orleans, which supposedly resides within city hall. MoRP founder, Norm Miller tracked down these two paddlers in 2018 and they are in their late 70's. Anderson sent Miller a book he had written which is in Norwegian. Titled, "Blues and PowWow", Miller hopes to transcribe it in English and put on this website sometime in the future.
Click the Links below to read more about their story:
Norwegians, Kaare Anderson and Bjorn Braaten both from Oslo, kayaked from the mouth of the Columbia River to New Orleans. They named their kayak, "Askeladden", after a Norwegian folk tale about "a small man who succeeds where all others fail." They started at Astoria, Oregon on May, 6th and arrived in New Orleans on December 2nd. Karre Anderson became an artist and created a sculpture as a gift to the city of New Orleans, which supposedly resides within city hall. MoRP founder, Norm Miller tracked down these two paddlers in 2018 and they are in their late 70's. Anderson sent Miller a book he had written which is in Norwegian. Titled, "Blues and PowWow", Miller hopes to transcribe it in English and put on this website sometime in the future.
Click the Links below to read more about their story:
- Alton Evening Telegraph:
- Monroe Morning World article:
- The Bridgeport Telegram article:
- The Dailey Herald article:
- The Jackson Sun + photo:
- CLICK images below to enlarge and read captions
1963: Martin Holt: Montana to New York. Starting on the Gallatin river, artist Martin Holt decided to paddle to the Brooklyn Museum Art School in New York, where he received a scholarship. According to his son Brynn, the inception for the trip occurred at the home of artist Bob DeWeese who had encouraged students to explore abstract expressionism. DeWeese's place was a popular destination of Robert Pirsig, author of, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance."
Shortly before the trip, at an art party at Bob's house, Neal Parsons an art student with Native American lineage, painted a seabird (See photo above) on the side of the canoe in NW native style. It's supposedly a symbol of safe return. Well, he did return, the next day, almost dead and no gear or canoe. He was swept under a log jam and had nearly drown. His son also stated that his father, "might be the only one who studied and memorized and put to song, every nursery rhyme he could find, in order that he be better able to entertain the children of the people he might end up seeking accommodations from during the trip." Martin later attended the University of Arizona where he focused on art and film making. He and his wife Suzy made two landmark films during that time. One, "Rock It," featured a concert by Jim Morrison and the Doors as well as several other rock and roll shows. They later filmed Andy Warhol making, "Lonesome Cowboys".
Shortly before the trip, at an art party at Bob's house, Neal Parsons an art student with Native American lineage, painted a seabird (See photo above) on the side of the canoe in NW native style. It's supposedly a symbol of safe return. Well, he did return, the next day, almost dead and no gear or canoe. He was swept under a log jam and had nearly drown. His son also stated that his father, "might be the only one who studied and memorized and put to song, every nursery rhyme he could find, in order that he be better able to entertain the children of the people he might end up seeking accommodations from during the trip." Martin later attended the University of Arizona where he focused on art and film making. He and his wife Suzy made two landmark films during that time. One, "Rock It," featured a concert by Jim Morrison and the Doors as well as several other rock and roll shows. They later filmed Andy Warhol making, "Lonesome Cowboys".
- Winona Daily News Story, Click:
1962:
Edward Howell & Kirk Terrill, from Missouri paddled their 18-foot fiberglass canoe from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi river. The pair started on June, 17th and after 71-days reached their destination. They are one of the youngest to paddle the river. Howell was 19 and Terrill, 21. They only had one close call, Howell said. "In Great Falls there is a 6-mile section of rapids below a series of dams, We didn't know it until we hit them. The Waves came over the sides of the boat and we just about turned over. The ends of the canoe have styrofoam so it won't since, but we were submerged. The boat his some rocks on the river bottom and got two holes in it. We paddled about 50-feet to shore and barely made it. There was a large boulder about 30 feet downstream."
Edward Howell & Kirk Terrill, from Missouri paddled their 18-foot fiberglass canoe from Three Forks, Montana to the confluence with the Mississippi river. The pair started on June, 17th and after 71-days reached their destination. They are one of the youngest to paddle the river. Howell was 19 and Terrill, 21. They only had one close call, Howell said. "In Great Falls there is a 6-mile section of rapids below a series of dams, We didn't know it until we hit them. The Waves came over the sides of the boat and we just about turned over. The ends of the canoe have styrofoam so it won't since, but we were submerged. The boat his some rocks on the river bottom and got two holes in it. We paddled about 50-feet to shore and barely made it. There was a large boulder about 30 feet downstream."
1962:
Jerry "The Deacon" Sanders & Richard Messer, paddled their aluminum canoe from Three Forks, Montana to New Orleans. The Missouri River Paddlers are honored to have Richard Messer as a member of our group. Messer recently published a book, On The Big Rivers, in 2015 about their account down the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. The book is a must read for any river traveler. Richard was kind enough to share some photos of their journey with us here (below). The duo met North Dakotan paddlers, Harold Umber and Bill Shirley during their descent and paddled with them a majority of the route.
(More below photos)
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Audio Interview with Richard Messer- Shorty after the book was published in 2015, MoRP founder Norm Miller recorded an audio interview with Richard Messer about their journey. Click the Youtube link to the left to listen. Click Here to Order book: "On The Big Rivers" Photos below by Richard Messer from 1962. Thanks Rich! |
