Photo Credit  Jim Snyder

Paddling the calm waters of the Mokelumne River is a serene way to immerse yourself in nature. The scenic stretch from the Fish Hatchery to Stillman L. Magee Park offers paddlers a tranquil escape, with beautiful foothills, canyons, and diverse wildlife lining the shores. The cool, refreshing water and picturesque views make it easy to forget you're just 30 minutes from Stockton.

This flat-water paddle provides a soothing, rhythmic experience as you glide through the river's gentle ripples and eddies. Along the way, you may spot great blue herons, geese, ducks, turkey vultures, and other local wildlife like raccoons, opossums, beavers, deer, river otters, and skunks.

The Mokelumne is well-suited for novice kayakers, with no major rapids, but still offers enough challenge to satisfy more experienced paddlers. Water levels and speed can vary throughout the season, with higher, faster flows during spring runoff and more shallow spots later in the year. Paddlers should exercise caution, as the river can become more turbulent after heavy rains.

Overall, this 4-mile section of the Mokelumne River provides a peaceful, nature-filled adventure for kayakers of all skill levels, making it a true paddler's paradise on hot summer days.

Map of Mokelumne River