Float time estimator
An estimate only. Wind, water level and how hard you paddle change your time.
How we estimate
Time = miles ÷ speed, plus your stops. The default 2 mph is the average floating speed the National Park Service gives for the Buffalo National River. For rafts and tubes, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways adds 25 to 50 percent, and it lists wind, stops and river level as what changes times most. Check flow on our river conditions pages.
Sources: NPS Buffalo National River: put-ins and take-outs · NPS Ozark National Scenic Riverways: float times.
More paddling tools
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Today's conditionsFlow, wind, water temperature and alerts for your boatLaunch site finderPublic launches from state open dataMy riversYour saved rivers, kept on this device
Rules
- State paddling rules Registration, permits and life jackets, from official sources
- Permit checker Registration, launch permits and invasive-species stickers for your boat; see also the AIS sticker guide by state
Kayak and gear
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- Gear check Check your saved gear against your rivers
- My gear Your kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety items, saved on this device
- Gear checklist What the rules require you to carry
- Paddle length Size from your height and boat width
Learn
- Cold water and life jackets Cold shock, hypothermia and life jacket labels
- Paddling guides River hazards, cold water and more explainers