Difficulty: Class II

Season: All year

Trip Length: One to three days

Other rivers in the Missouri Ozarks offer better whitewater, but it's usually spring runoff or rain-fed. The two rivers of the Ozark National Scenic Riverway—Jacks Fork and the Current River—can be floated year-round. Truth be told, summer's reduced flow makes for a lethargic river with many exposed gravel beds. If you want water that's at all racy, do this river in the spring. The river is spring-fed, so it's cool and clear. Jacks Fork from Buck Hollow to Alley Spring is recommended: The river has personality and the scenery is captivating, with waterfalls and caves for you to explore.