Water Activities & Venture Outdoors Pittsburgh: Kayaking Downtown
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1-2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; suitable for most people in good health.
Overview
Paddle along Pittsburgh’s Ohio River for breathtaking skyline views and urban adventure. Venture Outdoors offers solo kayak rentals perfect for all ages and experience levels—rain or shine!
Solo Kayak - Downtown
Ages 3+ • 1 and 2 Hour Rental Options • Great for Couples!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of kayaking with rentals available for one or two hours. Perfect for families, children can paddle with guardians while enjoying the scenic waters. Plus, with the Rainy-day Guarantee, you can kayak worry-free, knowing you'll be reimbursed if rain threatens your adventure. Embrace the outdoors with confidence!
Enjoy gliding in the water on a kayak
Duration
- 1 hour rentals
- 2 hour rentals
Kayak Limits
Solo kayaks can hold one person up to 325 pounds.
Age Restrictions
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Age 3 (or 35 lbs) to 12 – Must be in a tandem kayak with a parent or guardian, and parent or guardian must sign an Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form for each child.
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Age 13-15 – Two paddlers may be in a tandem kayak together, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the water. Must also have parent or guardian sign an Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form.
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Age 16-17 – Two paddlers may be in a tandem kayak together on water alone, but parent or guardian must sign an Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form.
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Age 18+ – Must sign an Acknowledgement & Assumption of Risk Form.
Make Rainy Days Free with Sensible Weather
Add an optional Rainy-day Guarantee to your reservation and you will be automatically reimbursed if rain is forecasted to impact your experience (Kayak Pittsburgh does not refund for rain).
How it works
After you complete a booking with Kayak Pittsburgh you will receive an email from kayakpittsburgh@ventureoutdoors.org with instructions to add the weather guarantee. Using a lot of science and a bit of magic, Sensible will watch the weather for you and automatically notify you for reimbursement if it’s going to rain.
Adventure Tips
Wear Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay protected during the paddle.
Check Weather Forecast
Look for clear skies or light rain; the Rainy-day Guarantee might save your trip.
Secure Valuables
Use waterproof bags to keep your phone and keys safe while paddling.
Start Early or Late
Morning or late afternoon paddles offer calmer waters and better lighting for photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Herons
- American Bald Eagles
History
The Ohio River has served as a vital transportation route for Pittsburgh since the 18th century, shaping the city's industrial growth.
Conservation
Venture Outdoors emphasizes eco-friendly practices by providing environmentally conscious equipment and promoting respect for river ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pittsburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Bag
Keeps your phone, keys, and other valuables dry and secure on the water.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses help protect against UV rays during sunny days.
summer specific
Comfortable Clothing
Wickable, lightweight clothes that dry quickly improve comfort.
spring;summer;fall specific
Water Shoes or Sandals
Footwear that drapes nicely into the kayak for safety and comfort.
summer specific