MONTPELIER RIVER TUBE FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours of Drift: Tube-Only Float on the Mad River from Birch Bark Canoe Livery
A shuttle-supported, 2.5-mile, tube-only float on the spring-fed Mad River—an easy, two-hour escape through shaded, wildlife-rich water.
Two Hours of Drift: Tube-Only Float on the Mad River from Birch Bark Canoe Livery.
This compact outing drops you into a serene stretch of the Mad River for about two hours of current-driven drifting. The 2.5-mile, tube-only trip requires no paddling: a shuttle takes you to the launch at the State Route 296 bridge and you simply relax as the spring-fed, crystal-clear water carries you back to Birch Bark Canoe Livery beneath shady tree cover and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two-hour, 2.5-mile, tube-only drift
This is a short, easy float—about two hours on the river over roughly 2.5 miles—designed for tubes only, with no paddling required so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Spring‑fed, crystal‑clear river
The Mad River here is spring-fed and remarkably clear—hovering around 58°F year-round—making the float as much about the water as the scenery.
Shuttle to a shaded, wildlife-rich stretch
A shuttle to the State Route 296 bridge gets you to the launch, and the drift back to Birch Bark Canoe Livery winds under tree cover where wildlife sightings are common; optional ropes let groups stay linked.
What the day feels like
What the float feels like
Expect a gentle, current-driven rhythm: a short shuttle to the State Route 296 bridge, a slow release into the Mad River, and roughly two hours of drifting beneath leafy canopy and along clear, spring-fed water as you float back to Birch Bark Canoe Livery. The simplicity—no paddles, no navigation—makes this a restorative, low-effort way to be on the river.
THE FLOAT
Two-hour, 2.5-mile, tube-only drift
This is a short, easy float—about two hours on the river over roughly 2.5 miles—designed for tubes only, with no paddling required so you can sit back and enjoy the ride.
THE WATER
Spring‑fed, crystal‑clear river
The Mad River here is spring-fed and remarkably clear—hovering around 58°F year-round—making the float as much about the water as the scenery.
THE ROUTE
Shuttle to a shaded, wildlife-rich stretch
A shuttle to the State Route 296 bridge gets you to the launch, and the drift back to Birch Bark Canoe Livery winds under tree cover where wildlife sightings are common; optional ropes let groups stay linked.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this float is best for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for roughly a two-hour river time on a 2.5-mile float; actual duration can vary with current. Check-in is at Birch Bark Canoe Livery (arrive ~15 minutes early).
Quick‑dry clothing or swimwear, water shoes or old sneakers (avoid flip‑flops), a towel to leave in your car, sunscreen, drinking water, a dry bag for keys/phone, and sunglasses with a strap if desired.
Shuttle to the launch at State Route 296 bridge is included; the float returns you to Birch Bark Canoe Livery where you return gear and finish the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip on the river?
Expect about two hours on the river for the 2.5-mile float; actual time depends on the river current.
Where do I check in and when should I arrive?
Check in at Birch Bark Canoe Livery at 1455 River Rd; plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled trip to complete waivers and payments if needed.
Can I bring my own kayak, canoe, or personal inflatable?
No—this trip is tubes only; canoes, kayaks, and personal inflatables are not allowed.
How cold is the water?
The Mad River in this section is spring‑fed and typically around 58°F year‑round; it is crystal‑clear and expect to get wet.
What should I bring with me?
Bring quick‑dry clothing or swimwear, water shoes or old sneakers, a towel, sunscreen, drinking water, a dry bag for valuables, and sunglasses with a strap if you use them.
Is alcohol allowed on the float?
No—alcohol is prohibited on the Mad River under state law.