As an avid kayaker with over 7 years of experience paddling rivers across North America and Europe, I’m always seeking out new and exciting destinations to challenge my skills. After logging hundreds of miles on the water, I’ve discovered some of the world’s best rivers for kayaking that offer stunning scenery, fun rapids, and plenty of room to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
Based on my extensive first-hand experience and deep knowledge of kayaking routes gained through my years on the water, here is my list of the top rivers for kayakers to visit in 2024.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our guide to the best rivers for kayaking in 2024. Explore top destinations that offer thrilling rapids, serene waters, and stunning landscapes for paddlers of all skill levels. Find your perfect river escape and get ready to paddle!
The Mighty Colorado is every kayaker’s dream destination, winding through the majestic Grand Canyon. This epic paddling journey can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how much of the 277 miles you want to conquer.
As an experienced river guide in the Grand Canyon, I’ve had the thrill of kayaking the entire stretch multiple times. The Colorado offers everything from small ripples to giant class 10 rapids to test your skills. And nothing beats setting up camp under the stars on the canyon rim after an exhilarating day battling the river’s raging rapids.
The Payette River, Idaho
For thrilling whitewater action, the Payette River in Idaho can’t be beat. This Class III-IV river serves up continuous rapids through the beautiful Boise National Forest.
I’ll never forget my first time paddling the Payette’s renowned Cabarton section back when I was honing my kayaking abilities. The 8 miles of heart-pumping rapids left me both exhausted and hungry for more. I can’t wait to take on the Payette again in 2024 to challenge my expert skills.
The Futaleufú River, Chile
Looking to push your limits with some extreme kayaking? Look no further than Chile’s stunning Futaleufú River. Rushing through a remote Patagonian valley lined with snow-capped peaks, the Class V Futaleufu has some of the biggest whitewater in the world.
As a kayaker, conquering this intense river has been on my bucket list for years. I can’t wait to finally make the trip in 2024 to pit my skills against the Futaleufu’s surging waters and ride the legendary rapids like Inferno and Throne Room. This river promises nonstop adrenaline along with breathtaking scenery.
The Ottawa River, Ontario
Sometimes after charging through whitewater rapids all day, a kayaker just wants to relax and soak up beautiful views. That’s why Ontario’s calm Ottawa River is one of my favorite paddling destinations.
I’ve kayaked the Ottawa more times than I can count over the years in my hometown in Canada. Gliding peacefully past verdant riverbanks and towering pines with a fishing rod in hand. It is my idea of a perfect day. And camping on one of the river’s many sandy beaches with good friends. At the end of a laid-back paddling trip is always a memorable experience.
The Bio Bio River, Chile
Chile makes the list twice, with the exotic Bio Bio River offering an exceptional kayaking adventure through lush canyons filled with wild horses and birdlife. As a nature lover, I’m drawn to this unique landscape, which rewards paddlers with sights like condors soaring overhead.
Last time I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the rare Torrent Duck native to the Bio Bio. All while battling fun Class IV rapids! Getting to combine wildlife watching with whitewater paddling makes this an extra special destination I’ll be revisiting next year.
So there you have it – the best rivers for kayaking that should be on every paddler’s travel list for 2024, from adrenaline-pumping rapids to peaceful flatwater paradises perfect for relaxing under the stars. No matter what type of kayaking experience you’re seeking, these destinations offer memorable adventures to last a lifetime.
As an experienced river guide in the Grand Canyon, I’ve had the thrill of kayaking the entire stretch multiple times. It offer everything from small ripples to giant class 10 rapids to test your skills. And nothing beats setting up camp under the stars on the canyon rim after an exhilarating day battling the river’s raging rapids. I hope all my fellow kayakers get a chance to explore these world-class rivers and create their own unforgettable stories on the water!
Also Read – Guide to Rivers in South America – Travel Tips and Top Highlights
Sandeep Karki is a passionate travel writer with a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and over 8 years of experience exploring and documenting the world’s most pristine natural landscapes. As the sole writer for RiverandEarth.com, Sandeep blends his love for travel with a deep understanding of environmental sustainability, offering readers unique insights into eco-friendly travel destinations, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. His work emphasizes responsible travel practices that respect and preserve the environment.
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