Paddle 52 miles from Kinzua Dam to Tionesta over four days, exploring hidden wilderness islands and historic sites in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest. Discover a unique kayak journey with Allegheny Outfitters.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness, comfortable with paddling several hours a day and managing changes in river flow.
Wildlife
History
The Kinzua Dam altered historic river landscapes and local communities, playing a major role in flood control and recreation development since the 1960s.
Conservation
Allegheny Outfitters practices Leave No Trace principles to safeguard fragile river ecosystems and supports local conservation efforts to protect the Wilderness Islands.
Allegheny Outfitters
Paddle 52 miles from Kinzua Dam to Tionesta over four days, exploring hidden wilderness islands and historic sites in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest. Discover a unique kayak journey with Allegheny Outfitters.
Allegheny Outfitters, based in Warren, Pennsylvania, specializes in paddling access and river trips on the Allegheny River. The operation offers a range of options including single and tandem kayak rentals, canoe rentals (no shuttle service options where customers pick up and return equipment), short guided‑style outings such as the three‑hour "Women on the Water - AO to Buckaloons" paddle, and extended self‑supported kayak expeditions from Kinzua Dam to multiple downstream endpoints.
Trip offerings span day trips and multi‑day itineraries — examples include 4‑day routes (Kinzua Dam to President, Kinzua Dam to Tionesta, Allegheny Outfitters to West Hickory), a 6‑day Kinzua Dam to Emlenton expedition, and a 9‑mile paddle from Kinzua Dam to the mouth of Conewango Creek. Several itineraries highlight the Allegheny National Forest, federally protected Wilderness Islands, and river towns such as Tidioute, West Hickory, and Tionesta.
Safety and practical gear are addressed on specific offerings: some trips include boat rental, essential gear, and life jackets. Rentals marked "No Shuttle Service" require customers to pick up and return equipment. Allegheny Outfitters serves families, Scouts, and paddlers seeking both relaxing day trips and longer, navigable river journeys. All descriptions reflect the business's current trip catalog and routes in the Warren, PA area.
Location
Warren, PA
Base in northwestern Pennsylvania
River Routes
Allegheny River
Access to scenic river stretches
Trips Offered
11 trips
Day trips to multi‑day paddles
Trip Lengths
3‑hour to 6 days
Short and extended paddling options
Reserve rentals or book a multi‑day route with confidence — check availability for desired dates and trip lengths.
Plan Breaks at Wilderness Islands
Use the federally protected islands as natural rest stops to stretch, snack, and enjoy the scenery without disturbing the habitat.
Prepare for Variable Currents
Sections of the river have moderate currents; maintain control by practicing efficient paddling techniques and wearing a personal flotation device at all times.
Pack Waterproof Gear
Protect electronics and valuables in dry bags to keep them safe from splashes and rain during the trip.
Respect Quiet Zones
Keep noise levels low around wildlife areas to avoid disturbing local animals and preserve the natural ambiance.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Ensures safety on moving water throughout the trip.
Dry Bags
Keeps clothing and electronics dry during paddling.
Layered Clothing
Adapts to fluctuating temperatures from chilly mornings to warm afternoons.
fall
Insect Repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and black flies common near the river.
summer