Pack list
What to bring
The Huzzah's quiet twin. Technical paddling gear required.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Required by law. The Courtois is technical enough that wearing it rather than stowing it is the right call.
Water shoes — not flip flops
Frequent exits to line through tight spots. You need shoes that stay on your feet on slippery rock.
Short kayak paddle (210–220cm)
Standard long paddles get caught in brush on the narrow Courtois. A shorter paddle is significantly easier to handle in tight bends.
Gorilla tape
Narrow brushy channels mean hull scrapes are common. Standard field repair.
Waterproof hard case for keys and phone
Technical water and tight turns mean tipping happens. Keys and phone need a hard waterproof case tethered to you.
Dry bag (20L)
Keep everything dry — the Courtois will test your skills.
Floating polarized sunglasses
The bluff corridor reflects sun off the water hard. Polarized lenses, floating style.
Water filter (Sawyer Squeeze)
The Courtois runs through remote terrain. Good springs along the route.
Mineral sunscreen SPF 50 (river-safe)
Mineral zinc oxide formulas are safer for the Courtois ecosystem.
As an Amazon Associate, Missouri Float Trip Guide earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability set by Amazon. We never display stale price data on this site.
Where to use it