Spring is on and the sun is shining! With the recent snowmelt from nearby mountains, spring is the best time to hop on your kayak for an incredible time of river-running thrills. Leave the snow-shredding season behind you, hit up the rapids, and be surrounded by some seriously epic scenery. Check out this bucket list-worthy guide to the best whitewater kayaking destinations across the U.S..
The Moab Daily, Utah
This spot tops our list as the number one must-kayak destination on our list. Moab, Utah, is not only a unique travel destination, but the ideal place for some class I-III whitewater kayaking. You don’t need a permit to kayak as a private trip and the scenery is beautiful beyond words. Nowhere else can you experience this kind of kayaking in the U.S. with this cool of an area around you. Launch at Hittle Bottom Recreation Area, travel the 13-mile stretch of river (known as The Moab Daily) and pull out of the water at Take Out Boat Ramp.
The Deschutes River, Oregon
Known for its friendly, less severe rapid conditions and reliably consistent water flow, the Deschutes River is an excellent Class III choice – especially if you’re just getting into kayaking or whitewatering. For this 10.5-mile trip, you’ll put in at Harpham Flats and take-out at Sandy Beach. You will need a boater pass permit for the Lower Deschutes River.
Arkansas River, Colorado
Kayaking along the Royal Gorge (on the Arkansas River) is a must-do at some point in your life. Breathtaking canyon walls on either side of you, 1000-foot deep water, and some of the most fast-paced class III-V whitewater in Colorado – this is where you want to be when it comes to kayaking. Head onto the water here and paddle your way through Sunshine Falls (class IV) and Three Rocks (class IV/V) for an epic full-day adventure.
Gauley River (Upper), West Virginia
On the East Coast, the Upper Gauley is a classic, world-famous whitewater river adventure. For more advanced kayakers, you’ve got to try out the flow through Sweet’s Falls (classV), Pillow Rock (class V) and Lost Paddle (class V). Better for beginners or intermediates, the nearby Lower Gauley and New Rivers are just as fun to experience with way less technical maneuvering required.
Storage for Your Next Adventure
Make room for awesome in your life with our stress-free storage solutions. From your PFDs to your kayaks and everything else, count on StorQuest to house your stuff when you're out on your next adventure. Cheers to making it all happen at a StorQuest location near you!