Paddling the Scioto Mile with Olentangy Paddle in Columbus
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners with light physical exertion required.
Overview
Get on the water with Olentangy Paddle for a refreshing one-hour kayak trip along the Scioto Mile in downtown Columbus. See the city from a new angle while enjoying calm waters and local landmarks.
Details
The Scioto Mile in downtown Columbus, Ohio, offers an unexpected aquatic perspective of the city's heart, and Olentangy Paddle puts you right in the middle of the action with their one-hour kayak trips. Launching from accessible points along the Scioto River, the trip delivers a refreshing urban adventure where calm waters frame the city's skyline, parks, and public art installations.
This hour-long paddle is a convenient yet immersive way to engage with Columbus’s revitalized riverfront. The Scioto Mile itself is a stretch of parkland and pedestrian paths running alongside the river, featuring fountains, green spaces, and iconic landmarks like the Captain Morgan statue and the rich limestone bluffs lining the shore. From the kayak seat, these elements take on a new character, offering close-up views of the river’s natural flow and occasional waterfowl.
Olentangy Paddle stands out for making this experience approachable for newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike. Their kayaks are well-maintained, with comfortable inflatable-style life jackets that make settling in easy. The business is locally owned, with enthusiastic hosts who bring genuine warmth and helpful tips to every trip, enhancing that connection between city and nature.
Beyond the surface, the Scioto River is historically significant. It served as a transportation route important to the indigenous peoples and early settlers, and its banks continue to be the center of community gathering today. Olentangy Paddle’s offerings provide a subtle reminder of the relationship between Columbus’s urban development and its natural waterways, wrapped in a stress-free hour of being outdoors.
For anyone in or visiting Columbus, paddling with Olentangy Paddle is a unique way to experience the city without the noise and hustle—just paddle, water, and the changing skyline. Whether you want a quick adventure or a new perspective on local sights, this trip unlocks a fresh point of view in the most accessible way possible.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking near launch points is plentiful but fills quickly during weekends—arrive early to secure a spot.
Bring Water and Sun Protection
Even on short trips, pack a water bottle and wear sunscreen; the open river offers little shade.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Opt for moisture-wicking layers and shoes that can get wet to stay comfortable during the paddle.
Be Mindful of River Currents
While the Scioto is generally calm, watch for mild currents and boat traffic near downtown areas.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Small riverside parks with native plant gardens
- Quiet coves along the Scioto favored by local fishermen
Wildlife
- Mallard ducks
- Great blue herons
History
The Scioto River has long been a resource for indigenous peoples and early settlers, shaping Columbus’s growth along its banks.
Conservation
Olentangy Paddle encourages low-impact recreation, promoting clean water practices and respect for river habitats in urban areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Riverfront park piers
- under the Rich Street Bridge
- near the downtown skyline backdrop
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing
Keeps you cool and dry during warm weather paddling.
summer specific
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during exposed river trips.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the paddle.
Water shoes or sandals
Protects feet and provides grip when launching or docking.
spring|summer|fall specific