Master essential kayak touring skills in Golden Valley with ACA-certified instructors. Perfect for beginners and intermediate paddlers looking to boost confidence this summer.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, comfortable sitting and paddling for a few hours while managing balance and coordination.
Wildlife
History
Golden Valley and its waterways were historically used by Native American tribes for fishing and transportation, a tradition echoed by modern-day paddlers.
Conservation
Local guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect waterways and habitats, supporting clean water initiatives in the Minneapolis area.
Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours
Master essential kayak touring skills in Golden Valley with ACA-certified instructors. Perfect for beginners and intermediate paddlers looking to boost confidence this summer.
Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours is a Minneapolis-based outfitter offering guided kayak trips and instruction on the Mississippi River and nearby lakes. The company runs a range of guided tours, including the Heart of Minneapolis (HOM) Tour, Happy Hour Sunset Tour, City of Birds downriver tour, Between Two Rivers confluence trip, and Full Moon Floatilla on the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours also offers an ACA Level 2 Essentials of Kayak Touring course led by ACA-certified instructors.
Tours regularly launch from Boom Island marina in Minneapolis and from a sandy beach in Saint Paul for specific trips, putting paddlers close to city skyline views, historic bridges, the industrial Port of Minneapolis, and natural features such as the great blue heron rookery and eagles’ nests. Trip durations vary: the Heart of Minneapolis is a roughly 2.5-hour paddle while the Between Two Rivers trip ranges from about 3.5 to 4 hours. Guides emphasize local history and route awareness while managing logistics and safety on the water.
The operation balances urban scenery with natural areas, offering options for sunset paddles and night floats under a full moon. The ACA Level 2 course provides structured skill development for those seeking formal instruction. Prospective participants can expect guided experiences focused on navigation of the Mississippi, shoreline observation, and contextual storytelling about the Twin Cities waterways.
Guides combine interpretive storytelling, wildlife viewing, and navigation of city waterways to deliver informative, safety-minded paddling experiences suitable for varied interests and abilities throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Tours Offered
6 unique trips
Guided routes across the Twin Cities
Typical Duration
2.5–4 hours
Short to half-day paddles
ACA Instruction
Level 2 course
ACA-certified instruction available
Launch Locations
Minneapolis & Saint Paul
Starts at Boom Island marina and beach
Select Heart of Minneapolis, Happy Hour Sunset, City of Birds, Between Two Rivers, Full Moon Floatilla, or the ACA Level 2 course and secure a guided paddle.
Wear a Proper Personal Flotation Device
Always wear a well-fitted PFD to ensure safety while on the water, regardless of your paddling experience.
Check Weather Before Heading Out
Minnesota weather can change quickly, so monitoring forecasts helps avoid unexpected storms or wind.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Protect your essentials and electronics using a waterproof dry bag during your kayak touring excursions.
Practice Proper Paddling Techniques
Focus on stroke efficiency and body positioning taught during the course to reduce fatigue and improve control.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Ensures safety by providing buoyancy and support in case of capsizing.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your belongings dry while kayaking in varying water conditions.
Quick-Drying Clothing
Wicks moisture and dries fast to keep you comfortable during warm-weather paddling.
summer
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protects skin and eyes from UV exposure during open water paddling.
summer