5 Safe Rivers for Beginner Kayaking in the US (2023)

Kayaking is a thrilling outdoor activity that provides an opportunity to connect with nature and challenge oneself physically. It’s a great way to explore the beauty of rivers, lakes, and other waterways while getting exercise and fresh air. But, as with any outdoor activity, safety should be a top priority, especially for beginners. Choosing the right river is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

5 Safe Rivers for Beginner Kayaking in the US

In this post, we’ve compiled a list of five safe rivers in the US that are perfect for beginners. Each river offers its own unique scenery and character, from the calm and gentle currents of the Delaware River to the stunning views of the Grand Teton Mountains on the Snake River. With easy rapids, calm waters, and abundant wildlife, these rivers are the perfect choice for beginners looking to start their kayaking journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner looking to start your kayaking adventure, these rivers offer an ideal opportunity to experience the beauty of the great outdoors. So, grab your paddle, life jacket, and sense of adventure, and head out to one of these five safe rivers for an unforgettable kayaking experience.

1. Colorado River, Colorado

The Colorado River, located in Colorado, is first choice for beginner kayakers. The river flows for over 1,400 miles, from its headwaters in the Rocky Mountains to its delta in Mexico.

The Colorado River is known for its incredible scenic beauty, with towering red rock formations and deep canyons that create a dramatic backdrop for kayaking. The river offers several sections with easy to moderate rapids, ranging from Class I to Class III, that are manageable and provide an exciting challenge for novice kayakers.

One of the highlights of kayaking on the Colorado River is the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the area, such as the Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, and the Black Canyon. These stunning geological formations provide a unique and unforgettable experience for kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

There are several outfitters and rental shops that offer kayak rentals and guided tours of the Colorado River. Guided tours can be especially helpful for beginners, as they provide safety instructions, equipment, and tips on navigating the river.

In addition to kayaking, the Colorado River offers plenty of other outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, and hiking. Visitors can explore the surrounding national parks and wilderness areas, or simply relax and take in the stunning natural scenery.

Overall, the Colorado River is a must-visit destination for beginner kayakers looking to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the canyons of the Southwest. With its stunning scenery, manageable rapids, and diverse range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that the Colorado River is a favorite among kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Delaware River, Pennsylvania/New Jersey

The Delaware River, which runs through Pennsylvania and New Jersey, is another great option for beginner kayakers. The river flows for over 400 miles, starting in New York State and emptying into the Atlantic Ocean in Delaware Bay.

The Delaware River is known for its varied landscapes, ranging from serene wooded areas to bustling metropolitan cities. The river offers several sections with easy to moderate rapids, ranging from Class I to Class II, making it a perfect location for novice kayakers.

Kayaking on the Delaware River is a unique experience, with plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s history and natural beauty. Along the way, visitors can spot historic sites, such as Washington Crossing and Lambertville Station, or observe wildlife like herons, bald eagles, and river otters.

There are several outfitters and rental shops that offer kayak rentals and guided tours of the Delaware River. Guided tours can be especially helpful for beginners, as they provide safety instructions, equipment, and tips on navigating the river.

In addition to kayaking, there are many other activities to enjoy along the Delaware River, such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. There are also several parks and trails along the river that provide opportunities for picnicking and relaxing by the water.

Overall, the Delaware River is an excellent choice for beginner kayakers looking to experience the natural beauty and history of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. With its varied landscapes, manageable rapids, and rich cultural history, it’s no wonder that the Delaware River is a popular destination for kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts.

3. French Broad River, North Carolina

The French Broad River, located in western North Carolina, is a popular destination for beginner kayakers due to its gentle rapids and scenic beauty. The river flows for over 200 miles, from its headwaters near Rosman, NC, to its confluence with the Holston River in eastern Tennessee.

The French Broad River is known for its stunning natural scenery, with beautiful forested mountains and rolling hills lining the river’s banks. The river is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including otters, herons, and bald eagles, making it an ideal location for wildlife viewing.

Kayakers can explore several sections of the French Broad River, ranging from calm, flatwater stretches to gentle rapids that offer a bit more excitement. The river’s rapids are generally Class I and II, which are relatively easy for beginners to navigate.

In addition to kayaking, the French Broad River offers a variety of other outdoor activities, such as fishing, tubing, and camping. There are also several parks and trails along the river, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Overall, the French Broad River is an excellent destination for beginner kayakers looking to experience the beauty of North Carolina’s mountains and rivers. With its gentle rapids, scenic views, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder that the French Broad River is a favorite among kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Snake River, Wyoming

The Snake River, located in western Wyoming, is another great option for beginner kayakers. The river flows through the majestic Grand Teton Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep canyons, and dense forests.

One of the main attractions of the Snake River is the abundant wildlife that can be seen along its banks. Visitors can often spot moose, elk, and even grizzly bears, as well as a variety of bird species. It’s truly a unique and memorable experience to paddle down the river while taking in the stunning natural beauty and observing the local wildlife.

For beginner kayakers, the Snake River offers several sections with easy to moderate rapids, ranging from Class I to Class III. These rapids are generally manageable and provide an exciting challenge for beginners. Additionally, there are stretches of calm water that allow kayakers to relax and take in the scenery.

In addition to kayaking, there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy along the Snake River, such as fishing, hiking, and camping. Visitors can also take a guided river tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna and the history of the area.

Overall, the Snake River is a must-visit destination for beginner kayakers looking to experience the beauty of the Grand Teton Mountains and Wyoming’s natural wonders. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and manageable rapids, it’s an ideal location for both adventure and relaxation.

5. Shenandoah River, Virginia

The Shenandoah River, located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, is another excellent choice for beginner kayakers. The river flows for over 150 miles, from its headwaters in the Blue Ridge Mountains to its confluence with the Potomac River.

The Shenandoah River is known for its calm and gentle currents, which make it an ideal location for beginners. The river offers several sections with easy to moderate rapids, ranging from Class I to Class II, that are manageable and provide an exciting challenge for novice kayakers.

One of the best things about kayaking on the Shenandoah River is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. The river is lined with towering hardwood trees, and the surrounding mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop. Visitors can also spot a variety of wildlife, such as blue herons, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer.

In addition to kayaking, the Shenandoah River offers many other outdoor activities, such as fishing, tubing, and camping. There are also several parks and hiking trails along the river that provide plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.

For those looking to extend their kayaking trip, there are several outfitters and campgrounds that offer guided overnight trips along the Shenandoah River. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the area and spend a night under the stars.

Overall, the Shenandoah River is an excellent choice for beginner kayakers looking to explore the beauty of Virginia’s mountains and rivers. With its gentle currents, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder that the Shenandoah River is a favorite among kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts.

In conclusion, kayaking is an exciting outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. If you’re a beginner, it’s important to choose a river that is safe and suitable for your skill level. The five rivers mentioned above are perfect for beginners, with calm waters, easy rapids, and stunning scenery. So grab your kayak and get ready to explore the great outdoors!