Discover the beauty of the Harpeth River on a laid-back float with Tip-A-Canoe, where scenic views, wildlife, and historical sites await. Perfect for all ages, this adventure promises a relaxed but enriching outing along Tennessee's waterways.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families and casual floaters
Wildlife
History
The Harpeth River has been a vital route for Native Americans and early settlers, with remnants visible along the banks.
Conservation
Tip-A-Canoe emphasizes sustainable practices, including minimal impact paddling and preservation of the river’s natural state.
Tip-A-Canoe
Discover the beauty of the Harpeth River on a laid-back float with Tip-A-Canoe, where scenic views, wildlife, and historical sites await. Perfect for all ages, this adventure promises a relaxed but enriching outing along Tennessee's waterways.
Tip-A-Canoe is a family-operated canoe livery located in Kingston Springs, Tennessee, and is recognized as the oldest canoe livery in the South. The company offers dropoff canoe trips and leisurely floats on the Harpeth River, showcasing river scenery, wildlife, and regional history. Typical trip options include the Kingston Springs Ballpark Dropoff (approximately 2.5 hours), the Gossett Tract Dropoff (approximately 3.5 hours), and the Highway 70 Bridge / Tip-a-Canoe Dropoff, which can be enjoyed for as long as paddlers choose.
Trips highlight natural features such as cliffs and a historic waterfall, and they pass significant cultural sites including ancient Indian burial mounds, a historic forge, and a historic tunnel. The Harpeth River setting offers scenic paddling through woodlands and open water, making it suitable for recreational paddlers seeking a mix of nature and history.
Tip-A-Canoe emphasizes safe, reliable trip logistics through established launch and pickup points and experienced local knowledge rooted in its long history on the river. Advance reservations and clear trip durations help visitors plan outings from Kingston Springs and nearby communities. The business’s long-standing presence on the Harpeth River, variety of dropoff choices, and direct access to notable landmarks make it a trusted option for paddlers looking for authentic river experiences in middle Tennessee. Clients can expect scenic half-day outings with flexible dropoff points and clear river landmarks to navigate. The trip selections give paddlers options for shorter or longer floats while passing multiple historical and natural points of interest along the Harpeth corridor.
Location
Kingston Springs, TN
Launches on the Harpeth River
Heritage
Oldest in South
Historic canoe livery status
Trips Offered
3 Trip Routes
Distinct dropoff experiences
Trip Durations
2.5–3.5+ hrs
Half-day and flexible floats
Plan a dropoff or flexible float from Kingston Springs — advance reservations recommended to secure preferred dates and trip durations.
Wear Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and hats since much of the float takes place in open sunlight.
Check Water Levels
Verify river conditions before your trip, especially after heavy rains, for safety and a better experience.
Pack Light and Waterproof
Bring a dry bag for valuables, as water splashes and potential drips are common on the water.
Arrive Early
Getting to the launch point ahead of your scheduled time ensures a smooth start to your float.
Sunscreen
Helps protect your skin during long hours on the water under open skies.
summer
Waterproof Bag
Keeps valuables dry during splashes and wrapping up your gear.
Hat and Sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare, enhancing comfort and visibility.
summer
Comfortable Footwear
Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps prevent slips and protect feet.