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Spend a half-day paddling the St. Croix River with Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental, perfect for a peaceful river escape steeped in local history and scenic views near Taylors Falls.
Spend a half-day paddling the St. Croix River with Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental, perfect for a peaceful river escape steeped in local history and scenic views near Taylors Falls.
Book with Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental · Taylors Falls, Minnesota
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.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for beginners and those in moderate physical condition with basic paddling endurance.
No prior experience is necessary; Eric’s team provides basic instruction and all needed equipment.
Yes, each canoe or kayak rental comes with the appropriate number of life jackets at no extra charge.
Yes, bringing snacks and water is encouraged, especially for breaks at picnic spots along the route.
This half-day rental does not include shuttle service; participants must return to the boat landing themselves.
It's best to head back promptly to Eric’s Boat Landing; check weather forecasts in advance to avoid sudden storms.
Pets policy varies; contact Eric’s Canoe and Kayak Rental directly for specific rules regarding animals.
The area commemorates the historic battle of St. Croix Falls and is marked for the largest log jam recorded on the St. Croix River, shaping local logging history.
Eric’s Canoe and Kayak Rental promotes sustainable river use by encouraging paddlers to practice catch-and-release fishing and pack out all trash to protect the river ecosystem.
Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental provides canoe and kayak rentals on the St. Croix River from a base at Eric’s Boat Landing in Taylors Falls, Minnesota. For visitors seeking self-guided paddling, the business offers a range of trip options including full-day and half-day rentals, shuttle-free launches, and multi-hour paddles between established river landings. Trips start or end at locations such as Sunrise River Landing, Wild River State Park, and the Taylors Falls Dam corridor, with routes suitable for paddlers comfortable navigating river conditions. Rentals accommodate anglers, day-trippers, and campers; one overnight option allows river camping at National Park Service sites on a first-come, first-served basis. Safety equipment and basic orientation are provided with each rental so paddlers are familiar with riverside procedures and landing logistics. The operation is known locally for its convenient proximity—Eric’s Boat Landing sits about a mile from downtown Taylors Falls—making it easy to combine paddling with dining and sightseeing in town. Booking information, trip durations, and shuttle requirements are communicated clearly for each route to help guests choose the right experience. The business focuses on straightforward, reliable rental service rather than guided tours, enabling visitors to explore at their own pace. Seasonal hours vary; recreational users should check availability during summer months when river conditions and National Park Service sites influence trip planning. Staff provide clear launch instructions, equipment checks, and local river condition updates to help paddlers plan safe outings year-round when possible.
Book with Eric's Canoe and Kayak Rental