epic paddle adventures tours

Epic Paddle Adventures

Hours updated 3 weeks ago

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Updates From This Business

Explore the beauty of Bioluminescence!

Paddle into the night and view the stars overhead as… read more

Get ready to see manatees and monkeys

EMBARK ON A MESMERIZING JOURNEY WHERE THE GENTLE… read more

Celebrate the Halloween Season with us!

Join us for one of our Halloween Paddle sessions.… read more

Portfolio from the Business

Manatees and Monkeys Clear Kayak and Paddleboard Tours at Silver Springs

Bioluminescence Clear Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Highlights from the Business

Locally owned & operated

Free parking

Available by appointment

Kid friendly

Pet friendly

Large group friendly

Review Highlights

“ There is something so special about being on the water and under the stars and moon and I'm excited to book another trip with Lake Life Paddle soon. ” in 4 reviews

“ The guides Rich and Aaron made everyone feel super comfortable and were also really knowledgeable about manatees and the area. ” in 5 reviews

“ I managed to fall off my board and they helped me get back up and enjoy the rest of the tour without feeling uncomfortable or sacred. ” in 6 reviews

Location & Hours

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1600 N Orange Ave

Orlando, FL 32804

Ivanhoe, North Orange

Serving Orlando Area

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Paddle board and Kayak Tour Agency …

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Where is this located?

It's located in Belle Isle just south of downtown Orlando. They are mobile and do most paddling in the Conway Lakes.

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We had a nice time this afternoon, impromptu SUP at Ivanhoe launch! Easy to schedule, and friendly service from Bryce & Savanah! The board was nice too! Thx!Dana & Russ

Roger was our guide and he took pictures for us, gave us so much knowledge and was an overall awesome guide. Highly recommend this company and Roger.

Great way to relax and have fun paddling to catch the sunset or see the full moon. Epic Paddle rents out kayaks and paddleboards or you can join their group paddles. They even have group tours out of Orlando to see the manatees or on certain times of the year for the bioluminescent tours. The Owners Jenny and Richard are the friendliest. They even accomodated me for a last minute night paddle with my coworker. They celebrate holidays by having themed group paddles, dressed in costumes. Highly recommend Epic Paddle Adventures for all levels of paddlers. This company located by Lake Ivanhoe has grown and will surely keep growing making each paddle memorable. After your paddle you'll most likely end up having a drink or meal with the Epic "tribe" at 1 of the establishments in the area.

So relaxing, peaceful and fun at the sane time. Fun times with Lake Life/Epic Paddle adventures.

Sunset at Lake Jennie Jewel...relaxing paddle with pretty lily pods

My family of six and I went on a sunset cruise/paddling kayak tour with Bryce and Savanna!-- they were awesome!! They made sure that my teenage daughter was happy with a paddleboard even though they originally put her in a kayak. When her tears showed up they made sure that she got the paddleboard that she originally requested! The intro and getting in the lake was easier than expected and even tho We all got a later start than I planned (my legs are old) they made up for it in so many ways!! We are at busy, active group of participants and they made sure we all had a good time! They showed us the "fancy" part of Ivanwood and made sure that we got all of the picture requests that we asked for including LED colors and family shots... We are a handful but they were amazing! Lol. The sites were impressive and the sunset was beautiful!! They got us all together and made sure that we all had a wonderful time, while being both informative and helpful in more ways than expected! My mother-in-law was having a hard time keeping up and Bryce literally tethered his paddleboard to her kayak to make sure that she had a good time too and kept up with all of us! We highly recommend Epic Adventures and hope that you take care of your guides and to tip them well like we hope we did (20% of cost)! Have fun and keep paddling! Thank you! :)

Epic paddle is conveniently located in north downtown on lake Ivanhoe and their team is wonderful! Super educated and patient with beginners. We enjoyed the experience and the downtown scenery. I paddled with my 10 year old on the front and it was a great, sturdy board. My husband and other daughter had kayaks.

TJ told me to do a review on Google (which I will), but you know I had to come here first lol!! So a friend of ours that we are visiting our friend and her husband and she suggested this place to us. We were trying to beat the rain, so we came at 11 AM. I kind of suck at swimming, so I did have a life vest on. But it mostly didn't matter as the boat held up super sturdy. We did the kayaks instead of the paddle board itself. But TJ was awesome!! He was able to help guide us and provide assistance on how to do it right. We did get rained on but it wasn't bad. TJ is SO FUNNY LOL!! He's a blast to be around. Definitely check this place out!! Especially if you're a beginner or need a chill day to relax and row .

See all photos from Kristine A. for Epic Paddle Adventures

Rented paddle boards in Downtown Orlando - beautiful lake & scenery, highly recommend! Super friendly & helpful, nothing was too much trouble - we'd love to do a manatee tour next time! Thank you!

I had wanted to rent out a kayak for the day to head to the springs and stumbled upon Epic Paddle Adventures, and it worked out well! The team was super friendly and they genuinely seemed interested in making sure you had a good outing with the kayak. They also made the pick up and drop off experience very easy too. I'll prob look to be back here again for the next full day kayak rental. Thanks again!

This place was phenomenal. I simply wanted to rent a stand-up paddle board for a full day and take it to King's Landing to paddle board the Emerald Cut section of Rock Springs Run. Epic Paddle Adventures made that possible. There was an extremely helpful primary worker that scheduled my pick-up and then her and another worker both made the actual pick-up easy and smooth. Drop-off was also made easy. I highly recommend this place.

I had such a great time doing the Blue Springs Manatee tour with Rich and Aaron! Highly recommend - this is great for folks of all skill levels and experience levels. I did the tour via a kayak. I kayak often at home and feel very comfortable in a kayak. The majority of the people on the tour did the stand up paddle boards. After watching the step by step instruction and lesson teaching everyone how to use their board and how to stand up, I was really impressed and kind of wished I had gone with the board route myself -- next time! Either way, regardless of vessel, this tour was awesome. Aaron and Rich were great guides. Both of them were very knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife. We saw gators, several various birds, and even a few MANATEES! It was the perfect amount of time spent on the water as well. Not a long paddle, but not a quick back and forth either. It was a good few hours and every minute was enjoyable. I will definitely be paddling again with Epic next time I am in central Florida.

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• Boat, Eco & Paddle Tours and Rentals

Epic Paddle Adventures

• 1600 North Orange Avenue, Suite 7 Orlando, FL 32804
• (407) 300-8781

Epic Paddle Adventures

Epic Paddle Adventures offers guided day and night tours on clear kayaks and paddleboards in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas. Rentals available for independent adventures on beautiful Lake Ivanhoe. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, their 15+ years of experience will guide you on an unforgettable aquatic adventure. Plan a paddle party, group event or corporate event. We love large groups too!

Information on how to book your Epic Paddle Adventure and save 20% will be found in your digital Eat and Play Card.

1600 N. Orange Avenue Orlando, FL

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Epic Paddle Adventures

• 1600 N Orange Ave Orlando, FL 32804
• (407) 300-8781

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Epic Paddle Adventures- June 2024 Business of the Month

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Picture yourself on the pristine waters of Lake Ivanhoe, with the warm breeze at your back. Local wildlife decorates the shores that lead up to Gaston Edwards Park and into Ivanhoe Village. A charismatic guide leads a kayak or paddleboard tour, full of laughs and local history, throughout this natural oasis in the middle of bustling Downtown Orlando….

With a home base on beautiful Lake Ivanhoe, Epic Paddle Adventures has become a go-to for both locals and visitors seeking unique experiences on the water. The team of fun and knowledgeable guides specialize in providing unforgettable paddleboarding and kayaking experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, Epic Paddle has something to offer everyone. Aside from tours, you can take yourself out for a day on the water with available rentals. You can experience Lake Ivanhoe in many forms, with a paddle full of sunshine, a romantic sunset paddle, or a glowing evening paddle. In addition to Lake Ivanhoe, adventurers can join Epic Paddle on trips to local springs, or during the summer season, to the Space Coast to catch a bioluminescence tour.

Owners Jenny and Richard, who began business on the water over six years ago, are active in the community. From lake clean ups, to bringing visitors to Ivanhoe Village and driving them into local businesses, to supporting the Ivanhoe Village Main Street, Epic Paddle is dedicated to helping the district thrive.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking to experience the best of Ivanhoe Village, Epic Paddle Adventures is the perfect place to embark on an unforgettable aquatic journey!

• lake ivanhoe

Matador Original Series

The dos and dont's of a manatee viewing expedition, according to a tour operator.

T he West Indian manatee, which lives in Florida and is a Florida native mammal, isn’t extinct. However, the species faces many threats and is among the state’s most vulnerable. When in contact with a West Indian Manatee or any other manatee, people must be extra cautious and follow certain precautions. To educate their guests on manatees, Florida-based company Epic Paddle Adventures invites guests on tours to view manatees safely on a manatee Airbnb experience, with a goal to inform others about manatees and the threats they face. The hope is that through education comes a call to action, resulting in a general populace that is mobilized to sign the petitions when they circulate and vote for leaders who prioritize wildlife conservation.

In Florida, manatees are found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, and canals. “Manatee season” runs from mid-November through March, and can be later when the springs are warmer. Many environmental threats to the animals, such as pesticides and fertilizers, are harmful to the manatees’ food sources, which consist of plant life in the areas they live.

Epic Paddle Adventures gives guests an adventure plus an educational tour. The company spoke with Matador about how it demonstrates responsible manatee viewings through its manatee Airbnb experience and how this experience is beneficial both for their guests and the manatees themselves.

We hope you love the manatee excursion with Epic Paddle Adventures! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Want to know more about manatees and take on a new adventure of seeing them? You can check out this manatee Airbnb experience .

MATADOR: How did you decide to create an experience around manatees and what has the response been so far?

Epic Paddle Adventures: The first time you see a manatee in their natural habitat, it is just magical. We definitely wanted to recreate that sense of wonder that we felt the first time we saw manatees in Blue Spring. We are “water people” to the core… we love everything about being on, in, and around water. Water, especially in an environment like Blue Spring has such therapeutic and healing qualities for your mind, body, and soul.

Manatees are calm and peaceful marine mammals that pose no danger to people. In fact, they are very curious about humans. Educating our guests on interacting with manatees has become one of our top priorities on our tours. We have been certified as Guardian Guides through the Save the Manatee Club and practice passive observation. Taking guests to see these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat and spend time with them on the water…that’s our idea of an excellent time! Our guests agree and usually say that it has been their favorite activity whilst in Orlando, maybe ever! Overall, it has been a wonderful experience for all involved.

Why is the location where you hold the event perfect for people to get to spot the animals, and what is the perfect location/habitat for manatees?

Blue Spring is a designated Manatee Refuge and the winter home to a growing population of West Indian Manatees. During “manatee season”, which runs approximately from mid-November through March, several hundred manatees congregate together in the spring run-up to the spring head. They choose this spot to warm themselves in the spring´s crystal clear, 73-degree water. The spring is connected to the St. John’s River, where we launch and paddle up the river a short ways to the spring, where we can encounter the manatees leaving and returning to the spring to feed. Manatees can be found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, canals, and coastal areas — particularly where seagrass beds or freshwater vegetation flourish.

What is the best thing you see when doing this experience with the manatees?

The best thing is the happiness, excitement, and joy on the faces of our guests when they see the manatees. People having a wonderful experience! Oh, and MANATEES!! We also get to observe Florida native birds, turtles, fish, otters, and alligators.

What should people expect when taking your tours to view the manatees?

For the manatee adventure, just like all of our other tours, we specialize in beginner-friendly tours and our staff is guest-centric! So, no matter the experience level, you will have a great time!

What would you like for guests to get out of this experience?

We would like our guests to be able to experience something that they have never done before, feel comfortable and have fun doing it. All while being able to encounter Mother Nature in all its glory!

What should you not do when coming into contact with a manatee?

People are not allowed to touch, feed or give water to manatees. It is against the law and it also encourages behavior that endangers manatees.

What are the best ways to view manatees and what are incorrect ways to view manatees?

We definitely feel the best way to view manatees is from a non-motorized vessel like a paddleboard or kayak, but we are a bit biased there. Incorrect viewing would be any way that would put manatees in harm’s way. An incorrect way to view a manatee would also be engaging in any behavior that disturbs or harasses a manatee. We are in their home and should be respectful of their peace and comfort.

What are your safety requirements when you take people to see the manatees, and how do you ensure animal safety throughout the experience?

We begin each tour with a safety briefing and educate guests on how to do passive observation. We do not crowd or rush toward manatees. We allow the manatees to observe us.

Are there certain behaviors that could throw a manatee off or seem like humans are a threat?

Yes, if you rush toward a manatee, that could make them uncomfortable. Also, putting your paddle in the water while they are close could scare them.

How can we protect manatees and educate others about manatees?

We are actually certified Guardian Guides by the Save The Manatee Club .

Book a manatee Airbnb experience with Epic Paddle Adventures

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17 Epic River Expeditions Across The U.S. That Are Worthy Of Your Bucket List

S ome folks see a big, beautiful body of water and think, “Ahh, vacation.” For those people, the U.S. is full of bucket-list-worthy coastal locales , lovely inland lakes , and plenty of waterfront accommodations to enjoy.

However, for others, the idea of a water-centric adventure is less of a relaxing getaway and more of a “challenged accepted” moment. For me, growing up in the Pacific Northwest meant that many of my favorite outdoor activities involved exploring some truly incredible rivers. I was no older than 10 when I took my first whitewater rafting trip, and by the age of 12, I had saved up my allowance to buy my own kayak. My brother was practically born with a fishing rod in hand. He spent countless hours perfecting the rhythmic swish and flick of flycasting in our front yard, learning to read rivers, and tying flies.

We were lucky to grow up with so many opportunities for river adventures, so today, I’m sharing a few favorites. From whitewater rafting trips to easygoing paddle trips and flatwater floats (and a few fantastic fishing spots), there’s something for everyone on this list, so let’s dive in!

Whitewater River Rafting Trips

River kayaking & canoe trips, flatwater float trips, fly fishing river trips.

Ready for an exhilarating experience? Whitewater rafting is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Even with limited river experience, there are plenty of ways to safely take a wild ride. We’ve included a few guides & outfitters that can navigate you through rough water!

1. The Wild & Scenic Rogue River (Oregon)

• Location: Southwest Oregon
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting & kayaking, salmon & steelhead fishing, hiking

The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest is a natural treasure that’s home to over 200 miles of rushing rivers, 324,000 acres of dense forests, and perfect panoramas of mountains, meadows, streams, and lakes. Its crown jewel is the iconic 215-mile Rogue River, which was one of the original eight rivers designated by the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act in 1968.

The Rogue is an absolute playground for adventurers, especially those seeking out a whitewater experience. You can find guided trips geared toward families as well as technical trips through Class III and IV+ rapids, which is the best choice for visitors, both for safety and due to the highly competitive permit system to access the Wild section. Momentum River Expeditions offers several multi-day adventures with options for all experience levels (as well as both camping and lodge options for overnight trips).

2. Middle Fork of the Salmon River (Idaho)

• Location: Central Idaho
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting & kayaking, fly fishing, river floats

Like the Rogue River in Oregon, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a legendary-tier river for whitewater rafting. Its rugged and remote location means you’ll spend several days on the water if you want to experience it (as it stretches for about 104 miles), but I can assure you it’s an unforgettable adventure. There are over 350 rapids that range from Class III-IV (and one Class V), so this is definitely one you’ll need an experienced guide for. Idaho River Journeys offers a particularly exciting 5-6 day trip that includes excellent meals (and desserts!) prepared using locally sourced ingredients - all cooked by the guides and camp crew.

If a challenging, multi-day adventure sounds a little too taxing, other sections of the Salmon River are practically built for relaxing. Idaho Adventures River Trips offers a variety of scenic floats that are accessible to all, including families. The Salmon River Half-Day Scenic Float is offered daily from March through September and flows just 6-10 miles, depending on water levels.

3. Middle Fork of the American River (California)

• Location: Northern California
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting & kayaking, hiking, biking, fishing

The Middle Fork of the American River winds through rugged wilderness and steep canyons about an hour east of Sacramento. The area was once home to bustling mining camps, but these days, you’ll only see other adventurers out here. Whitewater rafting trips down the Middle Fork are generally intermediate-level excursions, with rapids ranging from Class III-IV; however, they are manageable for adventurous beginners with an experienced guide and there are options for both single-day and multi-day trips through All-Outdoors Rafting . If you want an easier run, the South Fork of the American River is also an excellent choice for first-time rafters!

4. Arkansas River (Colorado)

• Location: Southeast Colorado
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting & kayaking

Colorado is famous for its beautiful wilderness and exciting outdoor adventures. Where the Arkansas River rushes through the Royal Gorge is an adventurer’s dream, with thrilling Class IV-V rapids and immense views. On a rafting trip with Echo Canyon River Expeditions , you can opt for either a half-day trip along gentler rapids or an adrenaline-pumping overnight trip down boisterous, white-capped waters. While the Grand Canyon of Arizona often steals the show in terms of whitewater excursions, the Arkansas River is just as incredible and challenging, offering a unique river experience all its own.

5. Chattooga River (South Carolina & Georgia)

• Location: The boundary between South Carolina & Georgia

The American South is often left out when it comes to epic river adventures, but the Chattooga River truly belongs on every outdoor lover’s bucket list. Spanning both Georgia and South Carolina, the Chattooga River is an exciting natural playground for whitewater rafters with some Class V rapids in the challenging Section IV of the river; however, most folks seek out easier, more accessible trips that traverse Sections II and III.

On a rafting trip in Section II, you'll float gentler Class I and II rapids, as well as calmer sections of the deep, clear water. There are forks and opportunities for turning this trip into a more thrilling excursion, making for a veritable "Choose Your Own Adventure" experience on the Chattooga. Section III is a great choice for beginners and families (most outfitters require children to be age 8+), as you’ll be navigating Class I-III rapids, and you can raft this section in 4-6 hours. Check out Wildwater Rafting for guided rafting trips along the Chattooga River (as well as zipline canopy tours!)

6. New River Gorge (West Virginia)

• Location: Southern West Virginia
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking

New River Gorge has a kayaking history that goes back much further than its National Park status. The New River has been a designated National River since the 1970s, and in December 2020, New River Gorge was re-designated from a National River to a National Park & Preserve. The river is the face of the park, with New River Gorge Bridge providing the most awe-inspiring welcome to visitors. It's the longest single-span arched bridge in the nation, stretching 1,700 jaw-dropping feet. Intrepid explorers have the opportunity to paddle beneath this architectural marvel, which is an experience absolutely befitting of anyone's bucket list. In total, the National Park portion of New River Gorge spans over 7,000 acres, and the river is the heart and soul of it all: 320 miles of rushing and roaring grandeur that's wholly wild, and wonderful.

Outfitter ACE Adventure Resort offers whitewater rafting on the New River for the thrill of a lifetime. After all, the New River is where you can experience some of the best whitewater rafting in the Eastern U.S.

7. Colorado River / Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

• Location: Grand Canyon, Arizona
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting, hiking, experiencing a natural wonder

The Grand Canyon welcomes nearly 5 million visitors each year, but only a fraction of them make an effort to explore this natural wonder beyond the scenic overlooks. Even fewer people - only about 27,000 - opt to explore the Colorado River running through the heart of the canyon. Of course, due to its vast size, rafting trips through the Grand Canyon are multi-day excursions, with Upper & Lower Canyon trips lasting 5-10 days or Full Canyon trips lasting up to 15 days. Most outfitters, including Outdoors Unlimited , explore more than just the river rapids, offering opportunities to take day hikes, see unique ruins, explore hidden canyons and waterfalls, and more. Lengthy trips like this aren’t for everyone, but if you’re up for it, you’ll see sides of the Grand Canyon that most folks don’t even know exist.

8. Upper Alesk River (Alaska)

• Location: Northern British Columbia, Canada to Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
• Popular For: Rafting & kayaking, hiking, wildlife watching, exploring a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ready to go big? The Upper Alesk River is not for the faint of heart. The 12-day, 155-mile excursion offered by Wilderness River Outfitters routinely ranks as one of the top river rafting trips in the whole world… and it’s not hard to see why. You’ll navigate through some of the most pristine wilderness in North America, beginning in Kluane National Park in Canada and ending in Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. Not only do you get to explore the largest nonpolar ice field in the world and navigate intense Class V whitewater rapids on the Upper Alesk, you’ll also paddle around massive glaciers and icebergs, hike through unparalleled alpine terrain & glacial lakes, and even see the lay of the land from above on a helicopter tour. For die-hard adventurers looking for a challenge, this is it.

If a whitewater rafting trip feels like a little too much for you, don’t fret – there are river adventures for everyone! Kayak & canoe trips are less of a thrill ride and more of a chance to get in touch with the more peaceful corners of nature.

9. Northern Forest Canoe Trail (Northeastern U.S.)

• Location: New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine & Quebec, Canada
• Popular For: Canoeing & kayaking, portage trips

While a 740-mile water trail through multiple states may not sound like an easy adventure, don’t be intimidated; only the most experienced long-distance river trekkers even attempt to take it on all at once - in fact, only 17 through-paddlers completed it in 2023! The vast majority of people explore the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) in sections, as there are hundreds of possible routes through both wilderness areas and populated stretches that can be experienced as day trips or overnight adventures.

In its entirety, the NFCT traverses 23 rivers & streams, 59 lakes & ponds, 63 portages, and is divided into 13 official sections of varying lengths. One of the most famous sections is the Allagash Wilderness Waterway in Maine, a 92-mile string of lakes, rivers, and streams. The NFCT Trip Planner is a super helpful tool for choosing which route is best for you, as well as provides suggestions for local rental outfitters or river guides near your launch point.

10. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (Minnesota)

• Location: Northeast Minnesota
• Popular For: Canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, portage trips

One of the most famous canoeing destinations in the country, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness encompasses 1,200 miles of canoe and hiking trails stretching across over 1,000 lakes, rivers, and waterways. Despite attracting around 200,000 visitors annually, the area is so expansive that you may only see a handful of other people while you’re out here, making it a perfect place to revel in the pristine beauty of Superior National Forest. And don’t just take our word for it - National Geographic named the Boundary Waters one of its “50 Places of a Lifetime” to experience!

There are several ways to experience the Boundary Waters, depending on your adventure preferences. Many folks set up a “base camp” to limit the amount of supplies they need to carry and explore the surrounding area via day trips. Others prefer a loop route, which begins and ends in the same place and travels a set distance from lake to lake. The most ambitious paddlers map out routes that carry them to the furthest reaches of remote areas, requiring them to carry everything they need for multi-day trips in their canoe, as well as carry their boat across portage sections to reach the next waterway. Explore Minnesota is a great source for itinerary suggestions for all types of adventurers, including day trips and outfitter suggestions if you’d prefer to explore with an expert.

11. Smith River (California)

• Popular For: Whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing

We could have easily included the Smith River on our list of whitewater rafting destinations, but there’s a softer side to this river too. While the upper forks of the river offer challenging Class IV-V rapids for adrenaline-seekers, the stretch of the river after the three forks join together levels out significantly, with the final 16 miles featuring only Class I-II rapids that can be explored more easily. After the confluence of the North & Middle Forks, the Smith River meanders through Redwood National & State Parks, offering a truly unique way to see the ancient, towering redwoods.

Momentum River Outfitters leads a fantastic three-day kayaking adventure on the North Fork of the Smith River, while Redwood Rides Adventure Outfitters offers excellent half-day and full-day beginner-level paddle tours on the Middle Fork and welcomes children as young as three.

12. Big Bend National Park (Texas)

• Location: Southwest Texas
• Popular For: Whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, camping

Big Bend National Park has some seriously stunning terrain to explore, from the entire Chicos Mountain Range to the largest swath of protected Chihuahuan Desert in the country, but one of its best-known features is the mighty Rio Grande River. Floating or paddling down the river will lead you through the immense, 1,500-foot-tall cliffs carved by erosion over millions of years.

For an easygoing multi-day float with fewer rapids, opt for Boquillas Canyon. If you prefer a shorter adventure, Hot Springs Canyon and San Vicente Canyon are smaller, often overlooked canyons that offer plenty of beauty. However, most folks come to Big Bend to explore the spectacular Santa Elena Canyon. Most downstream trips take 1-3 days and you’ll enjoy both leisurely sections and Class IV rapids when the water level is high. If water levels are lower, you can take a “boomerang” paddle trip by kayaking upstream and floating back down, which can be done in a single day (and fighting the current isn’t too tough when the water flow is between 100-200 CFS - make sure to check conditions ahead of time!)

Angell Expeditions offers guided tours in both Boquillas & Santa Elena Canyons, and Big Bend River Tours offers canoe rentals & shuttles in addition to guided tours if you’d prefer to explore on your own.

Sometimes, the best days on the river aren’t filled with fast rapids or even mellower paddle trips. Flatwater floats are perfect for when you just want to meander through some stunning scenery, enjoying the sunshine and the peaceful sounds of the river.

13. Buffalo National River (Arkansas)

• Location: Northern Arkansas
• Popular For: Canoeing, kayaking, floating

In 1972, Arkansas’ Buffalo River became the first officially recognized National River in the U.S. and has long been a favorite destination for river lovers. Originating in the Ozarks and flowing for 150 miles before joining the White River, the Buffalo National River is one of only a few remaining undammed rivers in the country. As its flow is dependent on rainfall, the Upper District of the Buffalo River - which has narrower, faster-flowing sections - is best explored in spring, while the slower Middle and Lower Districts peak later in the year and are best for a relaxing ride.

One popular Middle District stretch is Grinder’s Ferry to Gilbert, which offers access to gravel and sandbars for mid-float picnics and deeper pools for swimming. It can get busy on summer weekends, so if you want a quieter float, try the 12-mile Gilbert to South Maumee stretch or the Mt. Hersey to Woolum stretch, which offers access to Skull Bluff, a unique rock feature that you can paddle in and out of when the water level is low. For a longer float, the 30-mile Rush Landing to White River in the Lower District takes 2-5 days and offers some stunning sights along the way, including the historic Cold Spring Schoolhouse, a WPA project from the 1930s. Buffalo River Outfitters offers both kayak & canoe rentals as well as guided float trips along many sections of the river.

14. Crystal River (Florida)

• Location: Western Florida
• Popular For: Kayaking, swimming, tubing, wildlife-watching

We bet you didn’t guess there would be a Florida destination on this list of epic river trips! After all, this state is best known for its sandy beaches and expansive swamplands. However, it’s also home to some stunning spring-fed rivers that, while not lengthy or challenging, are downright delightful to paddle.

The Crystal River, as its name suggests, is crystal clear and a beautiful turquoise blue that feels almost otherworldly. It also happens to be a favorite spot for manatees to gather during the winter months, but you’ll likely see them no matter when you visit. Get Up And Go Kayaking offers glass-bottom boats and guided tours that are just two hours long, but packed with unforgettable scenery.

15. Blue Heart Springs / Snake River (Idaho)

• Location: Southern Idaho
• Popular For: Rafting, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding

The 1,080-mile-long Snake River is a playground for outdoor adventurers. Though it begins in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and empties into the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington, one of our favorite spots can be found in Idaho. Blue Heart Spring looks like it was pulled straight from a tropical oasis and plopped in southern Idaho. Blue Heart can only be accessed via water, but it’s not hard to reach; if you put in at Banbury Hot Springs (which is a great spot to stay overnight), it’s only a short paddle away!

Just beyond the Box Canyon outlet, a narrow waterway through the forest will lead you to this crystal-clear spring. Don’t be dissuaded if you encounter some murky water - it clears up once you reach the pool! Despite its location near hot springs, this is not one of them; the water is chilly even on the hottest days. It can be a hoppin’ spot mid-summer, but the cerulean water is worth it. Banbury Adventures offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided tours.

Fly fishing isn’t for everyone, but there’s no way I’d leave unforgettable fishing rivers off this list! While I’ve been sworn to secrecy regarding my family’s favorite fishing holes, I did snag a few insider tips about where to try casting a few flies.

16. Lower Deschutes River (Oregon)

• Location: Central Oregon
• Popular For: Trout and steelhead fishing, rafting, kayaking & canoeing

Admission: this is my “home” river, so of course I am biased, but there’s no disputing the Deschutes River is a spectacular spot for fly fishing. The Lower Deschutes, in particular, is known for its trout and steelhead, as well as the High Desert beauty that surrounds it. If you’re an experienced angler, you can go it alone, but both beginners and pros alike greatly benefit from a guided trip with someone who knows the river like the back of their hand. Conditions are always changing and you’ll be doing some wading if you want to fish here. Fly & Field Outfitters in Bend is a great spot for gear, guided trips, and general river insights!

17. Black Canyon of the Gunnison River (Colorado)

• Location: Southwest Colorado
• Popular For: Rainbow & brown trout fishing (and sometimes Kokanee salmon!)

If you’ve never seen a Rainbow Trout up close, it’s one of the most beautiful fish out there - and you can pull some monsters out of the Gunnison River. Of the 9,000+ miles of great trout rivers in Colorado, fewer than 200 miles are recognized as Gold Metal Water for anglers - and you’ll find a prime stretch downstream from Crystal Dam. The Black Canyon is simply spectacular to behold, with dramatic, extremely steep walls that only allow for around 30 minutes of direct sunlight to hit the canyon floor each day (hence its name).

The tough terrain can make for challenging fishing conditions, so booking a trip with an experienced local guide is a must; Gunnison River Expeditions and Black Canyon Anglers are two of the larger outfitters in the area. While it’s all catch-and-release for Rainbows on “The Gunny” due to preservation regulations, you can bag some beautiful Brown Trout here to take home with you.

18. Gallatin River (Montana)

• Location: Southwest Montana
• Popular For: Trout fishing

Montana offers some truly spectacular rivers for anglers, but we’re going with a slightly less conventional choice today. While the Gallatin River isn’t known for trophy-size trout like other nearby rivers, it’s so darn stunning and the all-around good vibes here more than make up for it - not to mention the fact that some iconic scenes from the movie “A River Runs Through It” were filmed here.

Fly fishing the Gallatin is a more intimate experience than popular spots on the Missouri or Madison Rivers. It’s a wide, wading-only river that peaks during the summer (though it can be blown out after heavy storms), and the sheer number of trout in this river means it’s less likely you’ll go home without a great fishing tale. Check out the guided trips from Gallatin River Guides or Wild Trout Outfitters if this sounds like it’s up your alley.

So, there you have it — adventures on some of the most magnificent rivers in the U.S. Go out there and surprise yourself — you are so much stronger and more capable than you think. And this spirit of discovery is the heart of our Bucket List features ; it’s the wonder and awe that fans and feeds our insatiable wanderlust.

The post 17 Epic River Expeditions Across The U.S. That Are Worthy Of Your Bucket List appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

Where to find adventure in Spain’s Costa Brava

Jul 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Jump in to these adventure experiences on one of Spain's most gorgeous coasts, Costa Brava © Artur Debat / Getty Images

The Mediterranean meets the Iberian Peninsula on the dramatic frontier stretching north from  Barcelona . The Costa Brava is defined by its steep cliffsides peppered with hidden caves and coves between long sandy beaches. A holiday hotspot for many, destinations include medieval villages, complete turreted walls and quaint fishing villages that have been fertile grounds of inspiration for artists. You could simply travel here to sunbathe, but you’ll get the most out of a trip to the Costa Brava if you embrace the spirit of adventure.

Whatever level of activity you’re craving, you can find plenty of Costa Brava adventures to get your adrenaline flowing.

1. Walk the Camí de Ronda

Also known as the GR-92, the Camí de Ronda is a hiking path that travels over 500km on the Catalan coast between Portbou and Blanes. Some people spend weeks hiking this epic route, completing it in about 10 stages, but many others use the trail for day hikes, setting their sights on the calas , or small rocky coves, where you can (mostly) escape the summer crowds of the main beaches for a swim. The route follows the coast but also veers into the mountains near Begur and continues down a long beach along the Bay of Roses. 

Best section to walk on the Camí de Ronda: If you like a variety of seaside villages, you can hop on the GR-92 at Calella de Palaufrugell, starting at the Cap Roig botanical gardens , and follow the trail past the neighboring village of Llafranc and along the coast, until you reach the village of Tamariu. One-way is about 9km so you will have time to walk back if you start early, or you could get a bus back, transferring through Palaufrugell.

Local tip: You can follow the red and white trail markers to stay on the GR-92, but at times it will veer away from the coast. If you want to see more of the coast, check the map for another trail to continue on, and then you may be able to rejoin the GR-92 further down.

2. Get paddling

When the summer is in full swing, there is no better way to explore the Costa Brava than hopping in a kayak or on a paddleboard. Glide through the crystal clear waters on your way to examine rock stacks and hidden caves beneath the cliffs. This is the best way to find new calas, where you might be able to tie up and take a swim break. 

Best place to kayak on the Costa Brava: Leaving from Tossa de Mar , you can paddle between interesting rock formations and explore caves on the way to Cala Bona, a charming little cove with a restaurant open in the summer season.

Planning tip: Sea conditions vary depending on where you go on the coast, but there are plenty of tour guides who can lead you on the route if you don’t want to paddle alone.

3. Cycle beyond the coast 

It’s hard to beat the beauty of the Costa Brava’s seaside, but there is more to this part of Catalonia than just the coastline. Apple orchards, vineyards, castles, monasteries and medieval architecture can be discovered along the sprawling network of bike trails. There are plenty of hills to climb around Begur, or you could follow the old railway line, La Ruta del Tren Petit, near Palamos. One of the most popular areas for cyclists is the Parc Natural de Aigüamolls, a marshy nature reserve with leisurely trails and ample birdwatching opportunities. 

Best place to cycle on the Costa Brava: To go the distance while enjoying gorgeous Mediterranean vistas, complete the popular 40km route from Girona all the way to the coast, finishing in San Feliu de Guíxols. This is actually the second half of an even longer route that extends from Girona into the volcanic region of La Garrotxa. 

Local tip: You can get yourself and your bike around Catalonia easily with public transport services like the Teisa Bici-Bus , which is equipped with a trailer that can hold up to 20 bikes. It connects the city of Olot to Sant Feliu de Guíxols via Girona.

4. Face your fears on the via ferrata

Unlike normal rock climbing, a via ferrata is a fixed route that allows climbers to clip into a metal cable, ensuring safety as they scramble along the rock wall. You usually find them in high mountain areas pushing the limits of vertigo, but if you're new to the world of via ferratas, the Costa Brava has the perfect one to start with. In Sant Feliu de Guíxols, the Cala del Molí is a cliff-hugging coastal route and the only one in Europe located directly on the sea. As you clip in and scoot along from one gravity-defying moment to another, you’ll get an up-close look at this unique ecosystem filled with birdlife. Part of the route closes during the nesting season. And don't worry: if you decide halfway that it’s not for you, there is an exit in the middle that will take you back to the top trail.

How to do the via ferrata on the Costa Brava: If you have some experience with via ferratas, you can rent gear from Breakaway , a local outfitter in Sant Feliu de Guíxols. If not, go with a guide like Aventura Experience  – one of the founders is the original builder of this via ferrata. 

Planning tip: Go in the evening to avoid getting overheated in direct sunlight. You can make a whole day of it by visiting the beaches near Palamos or Platja d’Aro in the morning.

5. Go underwater

The Mediterranean is often overlooked as a diving destination since it lacks the colorful sea life that is far more plentiful in tropical oceans. However, this historic sea does have maritime heritage in spades, and when the waters are as clear as they get on the Costa Brava, naturally you’ll find divers and snorkelers getting a peek at the underwater world. Among the Costa Brava’s rock beds and Posidonia meadows, you can see many different types of sea bream, squid and the occasional octopus. Pack a snorkel and take a peek around the beaches or calas like Sa Tuna, a small village where the buildings go right up to the coastal edge, or up in the Cap de Creus, where the park’s strange rock formations continue under the surface forming caves and other interesting shapes. Dive sites are numerous throughout the coast, but some of the biggest hubs are Tossa de Mar and L’Estartit.

Best place to go diving or snorkeling on the Costa Brava: Illes Medes is a cluster of seven islands and a protected nature reserve located just offshore from the L’Estartit. Here you are more likely to find vibrant corals and even more sea life, as well as intriguing caves and tunnels. Snorkelers can get out to the islands with a boat tour.

Local tip: The best snorkeling spots are usually just off rock coves, so pack a pair of water shoes that will protect your feet and give you more traction on slippery rocks.

Keep planning your trip to Spain:

Music up, windows down, and incredible views on these top road trips in Spain Put these top things to do in Catalonia on your itinerary Don't leave anything behind with this Spain packing list

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