Flowing south through a vast floodplain of wetlands and prairies, the Kissimmee River meanders for more than 130 kilometres before emptying into Lake Okeechobee. Once channelized for flood control, large sections of the river have since been restored to their natural winding course, bringing back thriving ecosystems of wading birds, fish, and alligators. The river opens dramatically into Lake Okeechobee, creating one of Florida’s most important habitats for wildlife and a scenic corridor for paddling and nature watching.