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These Beautiful Kayaking Routes Will Make You Drop What You’re Doing And Head Straight For The Water

It’s finally warm in Ohio, which means our waterways are filling up with Ohioans searching for that next great adventure.

If you haven’t ever kayaked before, it’s definitely something you should consider. Not only is it a delightful way to get some exercise, it also connects you to your environment in a unique way.

Central Ohio has made several improvements to our waterways in recent years. One of the most notable being the Scioto Mile. So if you’re looking for an incredible way to see our city and the countryside around it, consider paddling.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recommends the following tips to prep for your kayak adventure:

  • Check for any local warnings and flood information here.
  • Match the stream classification to your boating skills.
  • Scout the land area and stream prior to boating it.
  • Consider the temperature of the water as well as the air temperature. Dress for the water’s temperature.
  • Know the location of all dams and other hazards. Be prepared to portage (carry around) these hazards.
  • Be prepared for any unknown event. Know how to get to roads if you must “walk out.”
  • Carry adequate drinking water.
  • Camp only in permitted areas.
  • Display courtesy and respect to riverfront landowners and other stream users.
  • Properly secure your vehicles at both the put-in and the take-out.

Now that you’re ready to hit the water, here are some of the best kayaking opportunities in Central Ohio!

Big Darby Creek

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Located just southwest of Columbus is the National and State Scenic Big Darby Creek. Big Darby is great for kayakers and offers a variety of difficulty levels. Trapper John’s Canoe Livery has been renting canoes and kayaks to adventurers for years. The best part about it? Trapper John’s will shuttle you back to your starting point when you get your kayak out!

NOTE: Trapper John’s is temporarily closed due to an ownership transition. You can check their website for updates on when they’ll open back up.

Scioto River

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The Scioto River is a popular destination for kayakers in Central Ohio. There are several places to put your kayak in or get out of the water, including the boat ramp at Scioto Audubon Metro Park on the southern end of Columbus or North Bank Pavillion in the Arena District.

Through Windrose Outdoor, you can kayak a beautiful route on the Scioto as it runs through the heart of downtown Columbus. The route starts at Bicentennial Park, then it’s recommended that you head up stream for approximately 1 mile (to North Bank Park) and then turn around and head back to the start. This includes the most scenic view of the downtown skyline and the parks of the Scioto Mile corridor.

Alum Creek State Park

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Although there is a lot of boating at Alum Creek, there are plenty of calm coves and inlets that make Alum Creek a great place to go kayaking. If you’re hoping to turn your kayaking trip into more of a getaway, Alum Creek Park also offers an amazing campground, with a variety of campsites.

Kayak rentals at Alum Creek can be found at the Marina, and you can check out their prices here.

Hoover Reservoir

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If you’re interested in putting your kayak in and getting out in the same location, Hoover Reservoir is a great option for Columbusites. Hoover Reservoir is growing more and more popular for water recreation, but the lake has a 10hp limit, which makes it a safe environment for paddling.

If you need to rent a kayak, you can do so through Hoover Adventures. They offer hourly rentals of 10-foot kayaks and you’ll need to take a 10-15 minute instructional course. If you’re putting your own kayak in, there are plenty of places to get on the water, including at both Baldridge Boat Ramp and Red Bank Marina. For more information about paddling at Hoover Reservoir, please visit their website.

Metro Parks Outdoor Adventures

columbus metro parks kayaks
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Throughout the year, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks offer opportunities for visitors to try kayaks out at various parks. You can get all the info you need over on the Metro Parks website, where they showcase their extensive Outdoor Adventure programming. Click here for more info.