EDINBURGH GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Seven Miles of Quiet Water: A Wildlife Paddle from Atterbury to the Livery
A guided 7-mile river paddle from Atterbury to the Blues Canoe Livery that runs 3–5 hours through a secluded wildlife preserve and Camp Atterbury wilderness area.
Seven Miles of Quiet Water: A Wildlife Paddle from Atterbury to the Livery.
The 7 Mile Trip runs from Atterbury to the Blues Canoe Livery, threading seven miles of river through a secluded state wildlife preserve and part of the Camp Atterbury wilderness area. Expect long, quiet stretches where deer, beaver, great blue heron and osprey are common, interspersed with occasional mild rapids and excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Seven miles from Atterbury to the livery
This full-route paddle covers seven river miles; paddling time typically runs 3–5 hours. The operator shuttles you by bus or van to the Atterbury boat ramp and the trip finishes back at the livery.
Secluded preserve with frequent wildlife sightings
The river flows through a secluded state wildlife preserve and Camp Atterbury wilderness area where paddlers commonly see deer, beaver, great blue heron, osprey and wild turkey.
Mild rapids, fishing and flexible boats
Expect occasional mild rapids that add excitement, excellent smallmouth bass fishing, and choices of solo kayak, tandem kayak or canoe for different paddling styles and group sizes.
What the day feels like
How the paddle unfolds
After a shuttle to the Atterbury boat ramp, paddlers set off on a 7-mile downstream journey that typically takes three to five hours depending on conditions. The route moves through stretches of wilderness and wildlife habitat, punctuated by occasional mild rapids and productive fishing spots, before ending at the livery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should choose an alternate option.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Typical paddling time for the 7‑mile Atterbury-to-Livery route is 3–5 hours; trip times are approximate and may vary with weather and water levels.
Meet at the Blues Canoe Livery located at 4220 W. 700 N., Edinburgh, IN 46124; the operator provides bus or van shuttle to the Atterbury boat ramp and the trip finishes at the livery.
Avoid non‑waterproof cameras, radios and other electronics; bring sun and weather protection, water, and anything you need to keep dry.
Use litter bags and leave nothing behind; keep off private property and bridges.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the 7 Mile Trip take?
Average paddling time for the 7‑mile Atterbury-to-Livery trip is 3–5 hours; trip times are approximate and may vary with weather and water levels.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Blues Canoe Livery at 4220 W. 700 N., Edinburgh, IN 46124; participants are shuttled to the Atterbury boat ramp for the put‑in.
What types of boats are available?
Options include solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes.
Are children allowed?
Kids under age 14 ride free as a third passenger in a canoe; however, beginners are advised to consider a shorter trip if bringing small children.
What wildlife or activities can I expect?
The route passes through a secluded wildlife preserve and Camp Atterbury wilderness area with frequent sightings of deer, beaver, great blue heron, osprey and wild turkey, plus excellent smallmouth bass fishing and occasional mild rapids.
Are any items prohibited?
No guns or weapons are allowed on the premises or in boats; avoid taking non‑waterproof electronics and use litter bags to carry out trash.