Our favorite way to spend a hot summer’s day is on the Platte River, and we’re not the only ones. Beautiful weather draws everyone to the water, leading to busy river trips. Join us as we share our busy river tips to help you navigate a crowded river. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, managing expectations and planning ahead can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable adventure. This blog will help you avoid common frustrations and make the most of your busy river experience.
Navigating a Busy River Day
Plan Ahead for Parking
Parking can be one of the biggest challenges on a busy day. With only 15 parking spaces available upon arrival, cars cannot be left at Riverside. You’ll need to park at the river’s end, so plan accordingly.
Remember, Riverside Canoes is within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which means you’ll need to purchase a pass to park either in the lot or along the road. This is a requirement set by the National Park Service, not Riverside, so be sure to include this cost in your trip budget. Parking at the mouth of the Platte River is open to the public, so we share the space with fishermen, campers, beachgoers, and private river-goers. On busy river days, the best advice is to arrive early to secure a spot.
You can purchase a National Park Pass inside our store before you leave or down in the parking area.
Listen and Follow Instructions
We have used our 50 years on the river to develop a streamlined process for your ease, and ours. Before your trip, you may watch the What to Expect videos available on our website. These videos explain important information about parking, crossing the lake, and the steps to follow throughout your trip.
Pay close attention to these instructions, watch the videos with our staff and don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions. Following the procedures carefully will ensure that everything runs smoothly. Also, be mindful of the shuttle schedules; missing or boarding the wrong shuttle can lead to unnecessary delays.
Our What to Expect videos feature multilingual close captioning, ensuring everyone can understand and enjoy our content.
Prepare for Walking and Waiting
Certain trips, like the Loon & Walk and Lower Platte Weir trips, require some walking through the woods or along a dirt road. Ensure you wear proper footwear, and plan ahead for children and older adults in your group. This way, you can still enjoy a great float on the river despite the walking involved.
While at Riverside, drivers will need to drop off vehicles, which will mean some waiting time. Use this opportunity to apply sunblock, grab a snack, or take a picture with Bob the Bear. A little patience will go a long way, making the wait time pass quickly.
Check out our 5 Tips for a Platte River Tubing Trip blog for our best advice on what to wear from head to toe.
Dealing with Congestion on the River
At noon on a hot summer’s Saturday, the river will be busy. For a more relaxed experience, try to start your trip before 10 am or wait until after 3 pm, outside of peak times. If your schedule allows, consider visiting on a weekday when the river is typically less crowded than on weekends.
Peak times on the Lower Platte River are between 11 am and 1:30 pm, so plan accordingly.
Best Tips for a Busy River Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable busy river trip, remember these key tips:
-
Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.
-
Utilize your wait time effectively by preparing for the trip while waiting for drivers.
-
Listen to instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure safety.
By following our busy river tips, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy your time on the Lower Platte River, even on the hottest summer Saturdays. Remember, a little preparation and patience go a long way toward ensuring a smooth river adventure. If you have any further questions, our friendly staff is always happy to help. Happy paddling!
