Is any paddling experience required?

No prior experience is necessary; Eric’s team provides basic instruction and all needed equipment.

Are life jackets included with rentals?

Yes, each canoe or kayak rental comes with the appropriate number of life jackets at no extra charge.

Can we bring food and drinks on the trip?

Yes, bringing snacks and water is encouraged, especially for breaks at picnic spots along the route.

Is there a shuttle service to start points?

This half-day rental does not include shuttle service; participants must return to the boat landing themselves.

What should I do if weather turns bad mid-trip?

It's best to head back promptly to Eric’s Boat Landing; check weather forecasts in advance to avoid sudden storms.

Are pets allowed on the canoes or kayaks?

Pets policy varies; contact Eric’s Canoe and Kayak Rental directly for specific rules regarding animals.

Half-Day Paddle Adventure with Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental | Canoe | Water Activities

The St. Croix River weaves a pristine corridor of calm waters and wooded cliffs just east of the Twin Cities, marking the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Here, Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental offers an accessible half-day paddle experience ideal for those wanting a taste of river magic without a full-day commitment. Starting near historic Lion’s Waterfront Park in Taylors Falls, this trip delivers more than tranquil paddling—it's a dive into local history and natural beauty.

Lion’s Waterfront Park serves as a perfect launching point. It features convenient amenities like picnic tables and fishing docks, alongside Wisconsin Heritage Tourism markers commemorating one of the largest log jams in the region's history and the battle of St. Croix Falls. Paddlers glide along gentle currents edged by towering bluffs dotted with pine and maple, spotting osprey and kingfishers as they go. The river’s rocky outcrops and sandy banks create quiet coves for midday breaks or riverside lunches.

Eric’s rental fleet supplies durable canoes and kayaks equipped with life jackets and paddles, making it straightforward for beginners or families to set out confidently. This half-day journey is roughly two hours, perfect for a morning or afternoon on the water. While no shuttle service is included, the proximity of Eric’s Boat Landing to downtown Taylors Falls means getting on and off the river is hassle-free.

What sets Eric’s apart is its deep local roots and focus on low-impact recreation. Their stewardship emphasizes leaving the river pristine, encouraging paddlers to pack out trash and respect habitat. Whether a newcomer or a returning paddler, this trip offers a genuine connection to one of Minnesota-Wisconsin’s signature waterways and a chance to soak in the quiet power of the St. Croix River corridor.