Discover the beauty of the Mississippi River Gorge with a scenic kayak shuttle tour in Minneapolis. Enjoy a relaxing paddle past towering bluffs and abundant wildlife, expertly guided by Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness and some paddling experience to comfortably navigate river currents.
Wildlife
History
The Mississippi River Gorge area played a key role in early Native American trade routes and was significant to Minneapolis’ milling industry development.
Conservation
Ongoing efforts by local groups focus on habitat restoration and invasive species control to preserve river health and biodiversity.
Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours
Discover the beauty of the Mississippi River Gorge with a scenic kayak shuttle tour in Minneapolis. Enjoy a relaxing paddle past towering bluffs and abundant wildlife, expertly guided by Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours.
Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours is a Minneapolis-based outfitter offering guided kayak trips and instruction on the Mississippi River and nearby lakes. The company runs a range of guided tours, including the Heart of Minneapolis (HOM) Tour, Happy Hour Sunset Tour, City of Birds downriver tour, Between Two Rivers confluence trip, and Full Moon Floatilla on the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours also offers an ACA Level 2 Essentials of Kayak Touring course led by ACA-certified instructors.
Tours regularly launch from Boom Island marina in Minneapolis and from a sandy beach in Saint Paul for specific trips, putting paddlers close to city skyline views, historic bridges, the industrial Port of Minneapolis, and natural features such as the great blue heron rookery and eagles’ nests. Trip durations vary: the Heart of Minneapolis is a roughly 2.5-hour paddle while the Between Two Rivers trip ranges from about 3.5 to 4 hours. Guides emphasize local history and route awareness while managing logistics and safety on the water.
The operation balances urban scenery with natural areas, offering options for sunset paddles and night floats under a full moon. The ACA Level 2 course provides structured skill development for those seeking formal instruction. Prospective participants can expect guided experiences focused on navigation of the Mississippi, shoreline observation, and contextual storytelling about the Twin Cities waterways.
Guides combine interpretive storytelling, wildlife viewing, and navigation of city waterways to deliver informative, safety-minded paddling experiences suitable for varied interests and abilities throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Tours Offered
6 unique trips
Guided routes across the Twin Cities
Typical Duration
2.5–4 hours
Short to half-day paddles
ACA Instruction
Level 2 course
ACA-certified instruction available
Launch Locations
Minneapolis & Saint Paul
Starts at Boom Island marina and beach
Select Heart of Minneapolis, Happy Hour Sunset, City of Birds, Between Two Rivers, Full Moon Floatilla, or the ACA Level 2 course and secure a guided paddle.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure to complete gear fitting and safety briefing.
Wear Water-Resistant Clothing
Expect to get splashed—water-resistant layers or quick-dry apparel help keep you comfortable.
Bring a Waterproof Camera or Case
Capture the stunning river views and wildlife without risking your phone or camera.
Stay Hydrated
Though the trip is relaxing, bring plenty of water to stay refreshed throughout your paddle.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety first—wear a properly fitted life jacket throughout the trip.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep your valuables and extra clothes dry when out on the water.
Sun Protection (Hat, Sunscreen)
Protect your skin from intense sun exposure during peak daylight hours.
summer
Lightweight Layers
Wear breathable layers to adapt to changing temperatures and river breezes.
spring