Float and paddle the Icicle and Wenatchee Rivers with Leavenworth Outdoor Center. Discover tubing, kayaking, and paddleboard rentals designed for all skill levels amid the Cascades’ dramatic river landscapes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours depending on route
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed; ability to sit or kneel for a couple of hours is helpful
Wildlife
History
Leavenworth’s roots as a logging and rail town shape much of the Cascade Outdoor Area's lush forests and trail networks.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to maintain river health by minimizing litter, respecting wildlife habitats, and encouraging low-impact recreation.
Leavenworth Outdoor Center
Float and paddle the Icicle and Wenatchee Rivers with Leavenworth Outdoor Center. Discover tubing, kayaking, and paddleboard rentals designed for all skill levels amid the Cascades’ dramatic river landscapes.
Leavenworth Outdoor Center is a river outfitter based in Leavenworth, Washington, offering rentals and guided trips on the Icicle and Wenatchee Rivers. The company provides kayak rentals (2‑mile Wenatchee and 4‑mile Icicle), paddleboard rentals (2‑mile and 4‑mile Icicle/Wenatchee options), guided kayak trips and lessons, and family-friendly tubing routes (2‑mile Wenatchee and 4‑mile Icicle/Wenatchee). All necessary gear is provided for many trips, including wetsuits for chilly days on select kayak rentals. Several trips include shuttle service to launch points and shore-side exits where noted.
Guided options are available for paddlers who prefer instruction or added oversight; the guided kayak trip and lesson is a two‑hour offering that combines skill-building with river observation. The 2‑mile kayak rental lists a guided departure at 10am. Tubing itineraries emphasize a relaxed float with sandy beaches and easy access, and the longer 4‑mile float notes that pets are welcome on that route. Paddleboard rentals include shuttle service for the longer launches and are offered for participants of varying skill levels. Many trips are described as suitable for all ages, supporting family outings and multigenerational groups. Guided kayak trips highlight mountain views and birdwatching opportunities, and the 2‑mile paddleboard rental typically provides about an hour on the water for casual paddlers seeking scenic, low‑effort activity near Leavenworth river corridors. All descriptions reflect published trip summaries and logistics. Leavenworth Outdoor Center focuses on straightforward river access, equipment rental, guided instruction, and shuttle-supported launches so visitors can choose short family floats or extended paddling trips amid mountain scenery.
Location
Leavenworth, WA
Located on Icicle & Wenatchee Rivers
Trips Offered
7 Trip Types
Kayak, paddleboard, tubing options
Guided Options
Available
Lessons and guided departures offered
Gear Provided
Included
Wetsuits and equipment provided for many trips
Book kayaking, paddleboarding, or tubing with gear and shuttle options — guided lessons available.
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure your preferred river route and equipment.
Bring Quick-Dry Clothing
Wear synthetic or swimwear fabrics that dry fast, since tubing and paddling often result in getting wet and exposure to cool mountain breezes.
Use Sun Protection
Apply waterproof sunscreen and bring a hat and sunglasses—the sun reflects strongly off the water and increases UV exposure.
Stay Hydrated
Pack water bottles since paddling or floating on the river can be deceptively dehydrating during summer heat.
Quick-Dry Shirt and Shorts
Helps keep you comfortable and dries fast after getting wet on the river.
summer
Water Shoes
Provide grip and protect your feet when entering or exiting rocky riverbanks.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects skin against strong UV rays reflected off the water.
summer
Light Fleece or Layer
Useful for warmth during cooler mornings or after river time in shoulder seasons.
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