City: Grand Tower, IL
County: Jackson County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 37.62973100, -89.50544700
Air Temp: --
Location
Live Webcam
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Mississippi River
1 run
There are no whitewater runs within 50 miles of this access site.
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
Difficulty Classes
I Easy
II Novice
III Intermediate
IV Advanced
V Expert/Extreme
VI Unrunnable
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Located in Grand Tower, Jackson County, Illinois, this boat ramp provides access to the Mississippi River, one of North America's major waterways. The ramp is positioned at river mile 2334 from the mouth, offering paddlers and boaters entry to a significant stretch of the river in the southern Illinois region.
Be prepared for the Mississippi's substantial flow and current. With an average discharge of over 685,000 cubic feet per second and velocities around 11 feet per second, this is a powerful river that demands respect. The river's gentle average gradient (0.8 ft/mile) means relatively consistent conditions, but paddlers should have intermediate to advanced skills and understand how to navigate strong currents. The wide channel at this major river (Stream Order 10) provides room to maneuver, making it suitable for various watercraft including kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats.
Before launching, check current water conditions and verify seasonal access availability, as river levels and weather can affect safe paddling. Consult local resources about parking, facilities, and any specific launch procedures at this site. The Grand Tower area offers a good jumping-off point for exploring the Mississippi's main channel or adjacent backwater areas.
Be prepared for the Mississippi's substantial flow and current. With an average discharge of over 685,000 cubic feet per second and velocities around 11 feet per second, this is a powerful river that demands respect. The river's gentle average gradient (0.8 ft/mile) means relatively consistent conditions, but paddlers should have intermediate to advanced skills and understand how to navigate strong currents. The wide channel at this major river (Stream Order 10) provides room to maneuver, making it suitable for various watercraft including kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats.
Before launching, check current water conditions and verify seasonal access availability, as river levels and weather can affect safe paddling. Consult local resources about parking, facilities, and any specific launch procedures at this site. The Grand Tower area offers a good jumping-off point for exploring the Mississippi's main channel or adjacent backwater areas.