The Scioto Mile Downtown Columbus Trip

Kayak

Columbus, Ohio

The Scioto Mile Downtown Columbus Trip - 1 Hour

Ages 10+ • Single Kayaks • All experience levels welcome!

Select participants and date

Date

Mon, Oct 13

Travelers

2

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of kayaking and canoeing on the rivers of Columbus! Enjoy a guided adventure with a brief paddling lesson, captivating stories of the city's history, and stunning skyline views. All equipment is provided, ensuring a memorable and engaging outing for adventurers of all skill levels. Prepare to get wet!

Duration

2.5 Hours

*Includes all equipment rental, a 10-minute basic paddling lesson, on-the-water guide assistance and stories of Columbus and its rivers, past, present, and future! *

About

We run several days a week with multiple time slots available. We meet you at the launch site with your reserved boats and pick them up when your trip is finished!

Prepare to get wet! Kayaking and canoeing are a participatory sport and chances are you will get wet as you get in and out of the boat.

If you bring your phone, there are many opportunities to capture iconic skyline images of downtown Columbus.

What's Included

Kayaks: Our single person kayaks comfortably hold up to 250 lbs, and we have a few that can handle more. Maximum weight is 300 lbs.

PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices): We have two types of PFDs to choose from with sizes to fit everyone.

Paddles: we offer different sizes of Harmony and Carlisle brand paddles.

Safety and instruction: Each trip includes a 20-minute lesson based on ACA (American Canoe Association) Quickstart course where we go over basic paddling strokes and techniques.

Guide: The guide is on the water at all times. You are not required to stay with the guide, but every 30 minutes, they will be talking about the history of the river and the city of Columbus' past, present, and future under one of the downtown bridges. Our guides are there to make you feel comfortable on the water.

What To Bring

Strap-on sandals will provide you the comfort and safety you need to enter and exit your boat. Flip-flop shoes are NOT recommended.
Dress appropriately for the weather, wearing layers if you expect it to be chilly.
Insect Repellent
Small coolers
Binoculars and/or Cell Phones at your own risk

Restrictions

No alcohol
Paddle-friendly dogs (dog swimming is not allowed, so be sure your pup knows to stay in the kayak!)
No children under 10
Paddlers ages 10-14 MUST be accompanied by an adult. Option to tether to your boat is available.
Paddlers Ages 15-17 MUST be accompanied by an adult or have a parent/guardian signed waiver.
Maximum weight is 275 lbs.

Adventure Tips

Bring water and snacks

Though this paddle is just an hour, staying hydrated and energized helps keep your experience comfortable.

Wear sun protection

Sunscreen and a hat are essential, especially in summer months when exposure can be intense on the water.

Arrive 15 minutes early

Early arrival allows time for gear fitting, safety briefing, and a relaxed start to your trip.

Check water conditions

Water levels and weather can impact paddle safety; consult operators for up-to-date conditions before arrival.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Great blue heron
Belted kingfisher

History

The Scioto River corridor has long served indigenous peoples and early settlers as a key natural and transportation route.

Conservation

Ongoing local efforts focus on maintaining water quality and shoreline restoration to support native wildlife and safe recreation.

Explore The Scioto Mile: A One-Hour Urban Paddle Adventure in Downtown Columbus

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview