The Best Rivers to Kayak

The best rivers for kayaking are determined by the type of kayaking that suits your fancy. Whitewater kayak fans would most likely be quite bored paddling down a serene river in the middle of Alabama. Likewise, most recreational kayakers would not be happy with nothing ahead but miles of whitewater. Whatever your passion, a kayak and a river await your visit.

  1. Best Whitewater Kayak Rivers

    • The best of the whitewater rivers are in Fayetteville, West Virginia.

      According to Outside magazine, the best area in the country for whitewater kayaking fans is Fayetteville, West Virginia. The Cheat River, Lower New River, Upper Youghiogheny, the Lower Meadow River and 10 other bodies of whitewater are located within a stone's throw of Fayetteville. This may not be an area for the beginner as these bodies of water can be treacherous, but for seasoned whitewater fans the rivers around Fayetteville offer enough variety for a long vacation.

      Historic Fayetteville CVB
      P.O. Box 35
      Fayetteville, WV 25840
      304-574-1500
      info@visitfayettevillewv.com
      visitfayettevillewv.com

    Best Touring Kayak Rivers

    • Orcas can be seen while paddling a touring kayak near the San Juan Islands.

      The waterways around the San Juan Islands in Washington State offer those interested in touring kayaks some of the most unique options in the United States. The inland waterways of the Puget Sound can easily be traversed by the beginning paddler, but still be challenging enough for those who seek a bit more of an adventure. The estuaries are protected from high surf and the landscape of the islands is as diverse as the abundant marine life.

      San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau
      The Technology Center
      640 Mullis St., Bldg. A, Suites 210 & 211
      P.O. Box 1330
      Friday Harbor, WA 98250
      888-468-3701
      visitsanjuans.com

    Best Recreational Kayak Rivers

    • Pack your lunch and take your pick of rivers in Texas.

      For the recreational kayaker, choices of good river kayaking are limited only by the type of scenery desired. Some of the most diverse recreational river kayaking takes place in the great state of Texas. From kayaking on the 40-mile long Lower Colorado River to the shortest run on the tranquil Comal River, Texas offers something of interest for every recreational kayaker.

      Texas Outside
      texasoutside.com