Prepare to Launch!

Guidelines For Assessing, Designing & Building Access Sites For Carry-In Watercraft 

Prepare to Launch! is a resource designed to help facility and trail planners and park and recreation project leaders plan and build or update an access site tailored to the needs of canoeists, kayakers, tubers, stand-up paddlers, or small craft sailors. It guides a reader through the development process from conception to design creation, and provides a variety of launch construction options. View the guide in four formats:

• Web version: Organized by chapter, featuring photo galleries and linked resources. Best for viewing online, via a tablet or mobile device.
• E-book: Easy to use online book. Best for skimming all contents.
• Interactive PowerPoint Presentation: Can be downloaded to access interactive features. Best for presenting to audiences.
• Chapter Breakdown: (.pdf format) Best for easy downloading.

1. Introduction / Table of Contents
2. Chapter 1: Characteristics of a Launch Site
3. Chapter 2: Three Steps to a Desired Launch
4. Chapter 3: Launch Design Types
5. References / Glossary

Prepare to Launch! is a joint project of the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, Conservation Assistance (RTCA) Program and the River Management Society, and is an update to Logical Lasting Launches. RMS and NPS appreciate and thank the river users, managers, and professional staff across the country who have contributed to this updated guide. Enjoy, learn and let us know what you think of this collaborative effort!

Prepare to Launch! was published in 2014. Since then, RMS and partners released the River Access Planning Guide in 2020, and we highly recommend checking it out!