5-Mile Canoeing Trip with The River Rat’s Canoe Rental

Columbia•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and casual paddlers with basic endurance to sit and paddle moderately over several hours.

Overview

Paddle a relaxed 5-mile stretch of river near Columbia, TN with The River Rat’s Canoe Rental. Perfect for families and groups, this 3-4 hour float combines calm currents with easy access and diverse boat options.

Columbia, Tennessee

5 Mile Trip

Milltown Dam to River Rat's Ramp

Select participants and date

Date

Fri, Oct 24

Travelers

Adventure Photos

About This Adventure

Embark on a memorable 5-mile kayaking or canoeing adventure, perfect for families and groups. Enjoy a leisurely 3-4 hour journey as you glide down the river, guided by the gentle current. With various boat options available, this trip promises fun and relaxation in a beautiful natural setting.

Duration

12 Hours

About

Our 5-mile trip is the most popular as it is the perfect trip for families, youth groups, and singles. The trip takes approximately 3-4 hours on average to complete dependent upon wind, current, weather, and rowing speed. The last shuttle leaves River Rat's at 1:00 PM. It is recommended you arrive 10-20 minutes early for check in so you have time to park, change, and get on the shuttle. The shuttle will take you to our launch site at Milltown Dam and the current will gently guide you to the River Rat's boat ramp and parking lot.

Available Boats

We offer kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes for this trip. Kayaks are single occupancy. Canoes can fit up to 2 adults and 2 children (12 and under) or 3 adults.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Shuttle Service

Plan to arrive 10-20 minutes before your shuttle leaves to Milltown Dam to allow time for check-in and gear setup.

Wear Quick-Drying Clothing

Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes keep you comfortable during the paddle and potential splashes.

Secure Your Belongings

Use waterproof bags for phones, cameras, and keys to protect against accidental water exposure.

Mind the River Current

The current is gentle but can vary; keep basic paddling control for safety and navigation, especially near bends.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Great blue heron
River otter

History

The river corridor near Columbia was once a vital transportation and trade route for Native American tribes and early settlers.

Conservation

The River Rat’s Canoe Rental emphasizes Leave No Trace practices and supports local river clean-up efforts to maintain water quality and habitat health.