Offered Year-Round
Meramec State Park, Missouri

Join us on a unique guided canoe adventure down the scenic Meramec River, culminating in a 110-foot free-hanging rappel into the stunning Green’s Cave amphitheater. Paddle beneath limestone bluffs, explore Ozark history, and descend into one of the region’s most breathtaking river-accessible caves.

This experience blends serene river travel with an unforgettable vertical descent—ideal for individuals, families, and especially youth groups.

• Distance: ~6-mile float (Sappington Bridge to Meramec State Park Concessions)
• Rappel Height: 110 ft (free-hanging)
• Put-in Location: Sappington Bridge Access
• Take-out Location: Meramec State Park Concessions
• Recommended Put-in Time: Between 8:30 – 9:00 AM
• Rappel Site Location: Approximately halfway through the float (GPS coordinates provided upon registration)
• Group Size Limit: 18 rappelers per day

We will paddle as a group down the Meramec River, traveling beneath rugged bluffs and through peaceful stretches of Ozark wilderness. At about the halfway point, you’ll reach Green’s Cave bluff—where a short hike brings you to the top of the rappel. After a thorough safety briefing and gear-up session, you’ll descend into the cool mouth of the cave, where we’ll pause for lunch before continuing the float to the takeout.

• Professional rappel instruction & guidance
• All climbing and rappelling gear:
  • Harness
  • Helmet
  • Gloves
  • Ropes & technical equipment

• Boats and shuttle must be arranged by participants
• Canoes and rafts can be rented through Meramec State Park Concessions
• Contact the concessionaire early for rentals, especially for group outings
• Paddling out as a group with Vertical Voyages to the takeout is highly recommended for safety and coordination

• Canoe, kayak, or raft (or rental)
• Paddles and PFDs
• Small dry bag for lunch, water, and personal items
• Shoes that can get wet and handle hiking
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses
• Medications & personal items
• Phone or camera (optional)

Participants must be able to carry gear hands-free in a backpack or dry bag and manage their own watercraft confidently in mild current.

• Must be in good physical condition
• Comfortable paddling 6 miles on a flowing river
• Ages 10+ recommended
• No restrooms available at the rappel site (wilderness ethics apply: use wag bags or cat holes)

Green’s Cave lies hidden in the rugged hills of the Meramec Highlands—part of the northern Ozarks. Historically settled by miners and subsistence farmers in the early 20th century, this region still bears traces of Missouri’s rural past. Whether paddling or rappelling, you’ll be immersed in a landscape shaped by both nature and history—an adventure that offers both challenge and reward.

This river-based adventure is especially popular with:

• Scout troops
• Youth and church groups
• Outdoor education programs

Group leaders are encouraged to contact us directly to coordinate logistics, reserve full dates, or request custom programming. Max 18 rappelers per day.