Kick Off Your Summer Adventures
Kayak the Kinnickinnic River to Discover Your Outdoor Bliss
Kayak Trips
Lower Kinnickinnic Kayak Trip
The lower canyon of the Kinnickinnic River in Wisconsin is a natural spring-fed class I trout stream that runs from River Falls to the St. Croix River. The river has little to no development and is actively protected by the Kinnickinnic River Land Trust. The lower canyon has wider and swifter waters than the upper portion and has a few difficult turns along the way.
Time: About 3 hours (speeds vary)
Length: 5 miles
Skill level: Beginner-Novice
Upper Kinnickinnic Kayak Trip
The upper Kinnickinnic River in Wisconsin runs slower, a little deeper and certainly more winding through the forest canopy of the outskirts of River Falls. Kick back and kayak… enjoy the sounds of nature, and picturesque landscape while relaxing in a kayak. There will still be areas where you will need to navigate and kayak on some swifter currents, but you’ll be able to relax on the slower sections.
Time: About 3 hours (speeds vary)
Length: 5 miles
Skill level: Beginner-Novice
ATTENTION: Because of fluctuations in river levels, the water sometimes flows higher and faster than we deem safe. Trips will sometimes need to be cancelled but rebooking or refunds will be provided. More information on water levels can be found at the USGS site for Wisconsin. Please check back frequently or contact us for more info.
Directions
Lower Kinnickinnic Meeting Point
Glen Park – River Falls, WI
We are located approximately 25 minutes outside of Minneapolis/St. Paul in River Falls, Wisconsin, also known as the “City on Kinni.” River Guide Kayaks provides you with everything you need for your customized river tour. Our staff and tour guides will meet you at your destination and shuttle you to your river trip origin.
Meet your River Guide Kayaks guide or staff member at the tennis courts in Glen Park. Glen Park is located at 335 West Park Street in River Falls, Wisconsin. Once your river trip is completed, a staff member from River Guide Kayaks will shuttle you back to your vehicle.
We make getting off the beaten path easy.
Upper Kinnickinnic Meeting Point
The Garage Bikes + Brews – River Falls, WI
Meet your River Guide Kayaks guide or staff member at The Garage Bikes + Brews in River Falls, located at 109 West Cedar Street. Once your river trip is completed, a staff member from River Guide Kayaks will shuttle you back to your vehicle.
Come Discover the Pristine Waters of the Kinnickinnic River With Us
At River Guide Kayaks, our goal is to provide you with the best customer service possible as you explore the rivers we grew up loving. River Guide Kayaks is a small-town business whose staff has had a lifetime of experience exploring the rivers, streams, and wildlife of Wisconsin.
“I was very fortunate to grow up in River Falls, Wisconsin and have the Kinnickinnic River as my backyard playground.
I was blessed to have such a wonderful childhood filled with activities around the Kinni, and now I try to give the same experience to my five children…teaching them how to ‘read the river,’ love the wilderness, and open their lives to the outdoors. I started this business because I want to give those same experiences to more people.”
– Mike Kealy, Owner
We are seasoned river veterans whose goal is to ensure you enjoy exploring the rivers as much as we do. We’re proud of the beauty of the rivers around us, and we want to share it with you.
FAQs
What should I wear?
Active/outdoor wear or swimwear appropriate for the day’s weather. Do not wear flip flops or go barefoot. Strap-on sandals or shoes are highly recommended. Avoid expensive sunglasses and use a strap if needed.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen! Water/Gatorade, snacks, lunch (a simple sandwich), six-pack sized coolers, favorite beverages, etc. Make it a great trip any way you can, though space on the kayak is limited. No wallet will be needed on the river. Lock it in your car.
What type of kayak will I be using?
All kayaks are single-person Old Town Vapor 10′ kayaks. There is a 245 lb. weight limit and dry well storage in the back.
Is this adventure for me?
LOWER KINNICKINNIC TRIP IN RIVER FALLS, WI: Many kayaking guests have little kayak experience. However, you should have some experience paddling, be an active person and an average swimmer. You should NOT attempt the Kinnickinnic River as your very first attempt at kayaking. The average water depth is 10” – 12” and the maximum water depth is 6’. Be aware, you are in the wild. There will be sticks, spiders, etc. and you may need to get out of the kayak (and into the water) at some point. The hardest part of the journey is typically a long walk down to the river where you will be helping carry kayaks down a number of steps.
What is included in the price?
Kayak, paddle, PFD (not required) and shuttle service
What are the age requirements?
12 years and older
Will I need to know how to paddle?
Riverside paddling tutorial and overall instruction will be presented to all guests.
Are there any restrooms on the trip?
KINNICKINNIC TRIP IN RIVER FALLS, WI: The last chance for a bathroom (with a seat) is at Glen Park: Visit the brown building in the park behind the tennis court and baseball diamond.
How early should I arrive?
You should arrive at least 10 minutes prior to launch time.