By Kenneth Black
The Imperial River in Florida is a popular spot to launch a canoe.
The Imperial River in Bonita Springs is one of the Florida's great blackwater rivers. These rivers, stained with tanic water, represent one part of Florida's unique natural heritage. Those who want to canoe the river will find it is excellent for such purposes. Launching a canoe can be done virtually anywhere, but there are launching facilities along the river. Also, consider canoeing safety tips that are unique to Florida, along with various outfitters that may provide a canoe.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You'll Need:
- Canoe
Paddles
Life vests
Sunscreen
Food
Liquids
- Canoe
- Paddles
- Life vests
- Sunscreen
- Food
- Liquids
Step 1
Choose whether to bring your own canoe or rent one in Bonita Springs. For the adventurer, there are a couple of outfitters close to the Imperial River. One offers delivery. The other offers renters the chance to pick canoes up at the outfitter's location. Half day, single day or multiple day rentals are available.
Step 2
Let people know where you will be and when you expect to be back. Chances are, canoeing on the Imperial River in Bonita Springs will not be a problem. The river has no strong currents, but there is always a chance something could go wrong, especially for those who are not familiar with the river.
Step 3
Make sure all supplies are brought before hand. Canoeing in southwest Florida can be a big chore. It can often be a hot job, even in the winter months. Therefore, making sure to take plenty of fluids, water or sports drinks, is critical. Taking a lunch, snack or energy bars is recommended as well, especially for long trips.
Step 4
Choose a launch site. There are many places to launch a boat from, but the best place to do it is at a public boat ramp. The Imperial River has a public access boat ramp located at 27551 South Tamiami Trail. The ramp is open 24 hours a day and there is a parking fee. For those who have a parking pass at Lee County parks, it is honored here as well.
Step 5
Choose a time of day to on the trip. Animals may be more active in the morning and afternoons. The morning may offer the best time to go, however (see Tips).
Step 6
Go beyond the homes and developed areas. While they are often beautiful along the way, the Imperial River's big attraction is its natural beauty. For that, you will need to canoe past the homes and developments. It is a short river and doesn't take long before you get into some natural and scenic areas.
Step 7
Watch out for wildlife. This is one of the of the treasures of canoeing in Florida. The Imperial River offers a plethora of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, various water birds and other creatures. While most of the wildlife is not dangerous, it can be entertaining to watch. Even the gators can provide an interesting spectacle, and are not aggressive.
Step 8
Return before dark. There are a number of reasons why returning before dark is a good idea. First all watercraft in Florida must have lights for night use. Second, while mosquitoes may not be a problem right on the beaches near Bonita Springs, they can be thick just a few miles inland.
Resources
About the Author:
Kenneth Black has been a freelance writer since 2008. He currently works as a staff writer for "The Times Republican" in Central Iowa. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including business, politics, family life and travel. Black holds a bachelor's degree in business marketing from the University of Phoenix.
Photo Credits:
canoe's image by Lee O'Dell from
Fotolia.com
