Stouts Creek,

1. (Upper Stouts) Off of Highway M west of Ironton (0.6 mile)

Gauge Information

River Description

Upper Stouts Creek is probably the most commonly run whitewater creek in Missouri, and for good reason -- 100 ft/mi gradient, easy roadside access, numerous eddy-catching drops, beautiful granite mini-gorge, etc. Throw in one good class V- with an intimidating run-out and you'll see why Missouri creek paddlers consider this one a gem ... even though it's less than a mile long.

Logistics:
Upper Stouts Creek is off Hwy M, west of Ironton and north of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. To get to the take-out, begin in Ironton, MO at the intersection of Hwys 21 & M (aka W Russell St in Ironton) and go west on Hwy M for 3.9 miles to the intersection with CR 102. Park in the large pull-off area on the right and check out the take-out.

To get to the put-in, continue on Hwy M for ½ mile to the intersection with CR 101A. Turn around here and park on the side of the road just downstream of the trashed-out trailer. Pull as far off the road as you can to avoid getting snookered by errant locals. Watch for broken glass as you walk/stumble to the creek. Better be warmed up cause the fun starts right away!

History:
Upper Stouts Creek was first run on Wednesday, 16 May 1990, by Chuck McHenry, Santo Albright, and John Tansil. An account of the run, written by McHenry, appeared in the July/Aug 1990 issue of the River Log, newsletter of the Missouri Whitewater Association.