The Best Places to Go Kayaking in the US

If you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure, kayaking is a great way to get out and explore some of the most beautiful and exciting water locations in the US. From scenic rivers and lakes to rugged coastal areas, there’s a kayaking spot for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the best places to go kayaking in the US.

1. The Everglades, Florida

The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States and one of the most incredible places to go kayaking. With its vast wetlands, mangrove forests, and numerous species of animals, it’s an ideal spot for kayakers of all skill levels. Whether you are looking for a leisurely paddle through the mangroves or an adrenaline-filled journey through the swamps, the Everglades is the perfect place for a kayaking adventure.

If you want to get up close and personal with the local wildlife, the best time to visit is during the summer when the water levels are low. You can expect to see alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds. For a truly unforgettable experience, you can even take a multi-day camping trip and explore the vastness of the Everglades.

For those who are more experienced, there are plenty of exciting rapids and whitewater runs to challenge even the most seasoned kayaker.

2. The San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands are a kayaking paradise. With their stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and crystal-clear waters, they are the perfect place for novice and expert kayakers alike. The San Juan Islands are home to a variety of kayaking routes, from tranquil trips around the coastline to adrenaline-packed whitewater runs.

The most popular spot for kayaking is Orcas Island, which is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest. From the rocky cliffs of Point Lawrence to the serene waters of Cascade Lake, there’s something for everyone in the San Juan Islands. You can also explore nearby islands such as Lopez, Shaw, and San Juan, each offering their own unique kayaking experiences.

For those wanting to take on more of a challenge, the San Juan Islands are home to some of the best whitewater kayaking in the country. The rapids around the islands can be dangerous, so it’s best to go with an experienced guide.

3. The Salmon River, Idaho

The Salmon River is one of the most iconic rivers in the western US and a popular spot for kayaking. It begins in the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho and winds its way through the rugged landscape of the Salmon River Valley. Along the way, you can experience a variety of rapids and spectacular scenery, perfect for a day of kayaking.

The Salmon River is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear. You can also expect to find plenty of fish, making it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. If you’re looking for an adventure, you can take a multi-day kayaking trip down the river and camp along the way. This is a great way to take in all the breathtaking scenery the Salmon River has to offer.

4. The Colorado River, Arizona

The Colorado River winds its way through the stunning landscape of the Grand Canyon, and it’s one of the most popular spots for kayaking in the US. With its dramatic cliffs and deep canyons, the Colorado River is an exciting and beautiful place to explore. The rapids can get quite intense, so it’s best to go with an experienced guide.

Along the way, you can expect to find a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and even the occasional mountain lion. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a gentle paddle around the lake at the bottom of the canyon and take in the majestic views.

The Colorado River is also a great spot for fishing, and you can expect to find a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and walleye.

5. The Au Sable River, Michigan

The Au Sable River is a popular destination for kayakers, and it’s one of the most beautiful rivers in the US. It begins in the northern part of Michigan and winds its way through the picturesque landscape of the Au Sable National Forest. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including deer, beavers, and otters, and the river is also home to a variety of fish, making it a great spot for fishing.

The Au Sable River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for camping, and there are plenty of campsites along the river. If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle, the Au Sable is also a great spot for canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

6. The Delaware River, Pennsylvania

The Delaware River is a great spot for kayakers of all skill levels. It begins in the mountains of Pennsylvania and winds its way through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife and stunning scenery, perfect for a leisurely paddle.

If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, the Delaware River is home to some of the best whitewater rapids in the US. The rapids range from Class I to Class V, so there’s something for everyone. For those who are less experienced, you can take a guided tour and experience the thrill of whitewater kayaking without too much risk.

7. The Hudson River, New York

The Hudson River is one of the most iconic rivers in the US and a great spot for kayaking. It begins in upstate New York and winds its way through the stunning scenery of the Hudson Valley. Along the way, you can see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, from the rugged cliffs of the Palisades to the rolling hills of the Catskills.

The Hudson River is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear. It’s also a great spot for fishing, and you can expect to find bass, walleye, and trout in the river. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the Hudson River is also a great spot for canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

8. The Potomac River, Maryland

The Potomac River is a popular destination for kayakers and a great spot for a day of exploration. It begins in the mountains of Maryland and winds its way through the stunning scenery of the Potomac Valley. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear.

The Potomac River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for fishing, and you can expect to find a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and walleye. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a gentle paddle around the lake at the bottom of the valley and take in the majestic views.

9. The Snake River, Wyoming

The Snake River is one of the most iconic rivers in the US and a great spot for kayaking. It begins in the mountains of Wyoming and winds its way through the stunning landscape of the Snake River Valley. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear.

The Snake River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for fishing, and you can expect to find a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and walleye. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a gentle paddle around the lake at the bottom of the valley and take in the majestic views.

10. The St. Lawrence River, New York

The St. Lawrence River is a popular destination for kayakers, and it’s one of the most beautiful rivers in the US. It begins in the northern part of New York and winds its way through the picturesque landscape of the St. Lawrence Valley. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including deer, beavers, and otters, and the river is also home to a variety of fish, making it a great spot for fishing.

The St. Lawrence River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for camping, and there are plenty of campsites along the river. If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle, the St. Lawrence is also a great spot for canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

11. The New River, Virginia

The New River is a great spot for kayaking and one of the most beautiful rivers in the US. It begins in the mountains of Virginia and winds its way through the rugged landscape of the New River Valley. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including deer, beavers, and otters, and the river is also home to a variety of fish, making it a great spot for fishing.

The New River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for camping, and there are plenty of campsites along the river. If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle, the New River is also a great spot for canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.

12. The Missouri River, North Dakota

The Missouri River is a great spot for kayaking and one of the most iconic rivers in the US. It begins in the mountains of North Dakota and winds its way through the stunning landscape of the Missouri River Valley. Along the way, you can find plenty of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear.

The Missouri River is home to a variety of rapids, from Class I rapids for beginners to Class IV rapids for experienced kayakers. It’s also a great spot for fishing, and you can expect to find a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and walleye. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a gentle paddle around the lake at the bottom of the valley and take in the majestic views.

Conclusion

Kayaking is a great way to explore some of the most beautiful and exciting water locations in the US. From the Everglades in Florida to the Missouri River in North Dakota, there’s a spot for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there’s something for everyone. So grab your kayak and get out there and explore the best places to go kayaking in the US.