YELLOW RIVER CANOE TRAIL
DESCRIPTION: The Yellow River drains the state's highest elevation. The current is faster than many other Florida rivers because of the river's steeper decent to sea level. The upper section of the trail is bordered by hardwood forests and high sandy banks. Further downstream, the river widens and becomes more placid as it meanders through cypress-gum swamps. Sandbars can be found on some of the curves. Long sections of the trail, particularly on the upper section, are undeveloped, offering the canoeist a glimpse of the Florida early explorers might have seen.
MILEAGE: 56
SKILL LEVEL: Intermediate
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
USUAL CURRENT: Average (2-3 mph) on lower section to swift (3+) on upper section
NOTES AND PRECAUTIONS: Motor boats are numerous on the lower section. Be aware of overhanging branches and snags beneath the water that may require technical skill to navigate around. The end of the trail is on the northern boundary of Eglin Air Force Base Reservation. Obtain a base recreation permit if you plan to enter the reservation. Information about permit can be obtained by calling (904)882-4164 or writing Natural Resources Branch, AD/DEMN,Eglin AFB, Florida 32452-5000
COUNTY HIGHWAY MAPS: Okaloosa, Santa Rosa
USGS TOPO QUADS: Crestview, Holt, Harold SE, Floridale
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS: Santa Rosa County Sheriff 911 or 623-3691; Okaloosa County Sheriff 682-2788 or 682-2375.
ACCESS POINTS:
1. SR 2 Bridge - At Oak Grove 4 1/2 miles west of SR 85.
2. US 90 Bridge - 4 miles west of Crestview. Launch from the graded road 1/4 mile southwest of the bridge. (17 miles)
3. Boat Ramp - From Holt, take SR 189 south 2 1/2 miles to the river. Launch at private landing. (19 miles)
4. SR 87 Bridge - SR 87 leads southeast from US 90, 6 miles west of Harold. Access is at SR 87 bridge 3 miles south of I-10. (20 miles)
There may be access points (both public and private) in addition to those listed here. Please remember that some sites require a fee for launching and/or parking.
CANOE LIVERIES AND OUTFITTERS:
No information on canoe liveries and outfitters is available.