Paddling upstream efficiently has very little to do with raw strength and almost everything to do with where you choose to put your boat. A river is not a uniform conveyor belt moving at one speed from bank to bank. It is a complex, constantly varying system of fast and slow water, and learning to read that system is the foundation of effective upstreaming.
Des Moines and the surrounding area offer excellent lake paddling. Whether you're looking for a quick after-work paddle, a peaceful morning on calm water, or a full-day adventure, we've got you covered.