Kayaking is a popular outdoor activity that allows people to explore nature, get some exercise, and have fun on the water. The United States is home to many beautiful places to go kayaking, from the rugged coastlines of Maine to the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. Here are some of the best places to go kayaking in the USA:
- The Everglades, Florida: The Everglades is a unique and fragile ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. Kayaking through the mangrove swamps and sawgrass prairies of the Everglades is a great way to experience this unique landscape and see alligators, manatees, and a variety of birds.
- The Gulf Coast, Alabama and Florida: The Gulf Coast is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Kayaking along the Gulf Coast offers the opportunity to explore the coastline, including the Gulf Islands National Seashore, and see dolphins and other marine life.
- The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota: The Boundary Waters is a remote wilderness area in northern Minnesota that is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. With over 1,000 miles of canoe routes and over 2,000 designated campsites, the Boundary Waters offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- The San Juan Islands, Washington: The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located in the Puget Sound off the coast of Washington. Kayaking among these islands is a great way to see the diverse landscapes and wildlife, including seals, porpoises, and eagles.
- The Colorado River, Arizona: The Colorado River offers some of the most spectacular kayaking in the southwestern United States. Kayaking through the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers breathtaking views of the canyon walls and the river below.
- The Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington: The Pacific Northwest is known for its rugged coastline, lush forests, and beautiful rivers. Kayaking in this region offers the opportunity to explore the rugged coastline and see sea lions, seals, and whales, as well as paddle through the serene forest rivers.
- The Delaware River, Pennsylvania and New York: The Delaware River is the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi. This river offers clean water and beautiful scenery, it is a perfect destination for kayaking.
- The Outer Banks, North Carolina: The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that are known for their beautiful beaches, dunes, and wildlife. Kayaking in the Outer Banks offers the opportunity to explore the coastline, including the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and see a variety of marine life.
- The Snake River, Wyoming: The Snake River runs through the Grand Teton National Park and is a great place to go kayaking. The scenery is beautiful and offers the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and bears.
- The Nantahala River, North Carolina: The Nantahala River is considered one of the best whitewater rivers for kayaking in the Eastern United States. With rapids that range from beginner to expert, it’s perfect for all skill levels, and is surrounded by beautiful scenery in the Nantahala National Forest.
- The Maine Island Trail, Maine: The Maine Island Trail is a 375-mile long water trail that runs along the coast of Maine. It offers great opportunities to go sea kayaking, with many opportunities to see wildlife and experience the rugged beauty of the Maine coastline.
- The Charles River, Massachusetts: The Charles River runs through Boston and is a great place to go kayaking. It offers a chance to see historic sites and landmarks, such as the Boston Tea Party Museum and the USS Constitution Museum.
- The Thousand Islands, New York: The Thousand Islands are located in the St. Lawrence River, near the border of New York and Canada. The area is home to over 1,800 islands and is a great place to go kayaking, with many opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife watching.
These are just a few of the many great places to go kayaking in the United States. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there’s a destination that’s perfect for you. Remember to always check the weather and water conditions before you go kayaking and to follow safety guidelines.
Featured Image: Photo by Filip Mroz on Unsplash