Florida rivers are flowing cathedrals. They are avenues through time, allowing us to wrap ourselves in a rich historical tapestry, and they are showcases for wildlife and natural beauty. On some rivers, idyllic scenes are revealed bend after bend for miles and sometimes days, appearing to have changed little since early native people plied the waters in dugout canoes. Florida's rivers are seductive. Imagine gliding along a clear watercourse beneath a leafy canopy of maple, cypress and gum. The current swirls eelgrass in undulating patterns as schools of silvery mullet shoot past. Ahead, a manatee's snout breaks the surface in a loud whoosh, its gray body lumbering slowly along and showing little fear as you pass by. A red-shouldered hawk cries and soars over treetops while a black anhinga stretches long wings to dry while perched on a cypress knee.

This is Florida, and the scene plays out daily in the Sunshine State. Coupled with other types of rivers such as mysterious blackwater streams and mighty alluvial ones, Florida is a paddler's paradise. This book is a celebration of Florida's rivers, especially if viewing them from a kayak, canoe or paddleboard. While this is not a guide book, paddling tips for each river are provided, along with a look at their rich natural and cultural history. The final chapter describes ways that you can help Florida's rivers.