If you love the outdoors and don’t mind some adrenaline pumping activities, hitting the open waters with your kayak might be one of the best things to do. From open water lakes to white water river rapids, here are the best places in the USA to have your next paddling adventure!

1. Colorado River

This legendary river, flowing across three different states is one hell of an adventure. Incredible rapids, awesome scenery and offcourse, paddling in the Grand Canyon. There is nothing better than experiencing the grandeur of this nature wonder from down below.

Colorado River

2. Salmon river, Idaho

Accepting the challenge of conquering various rapids in the middle of nowhere. This is the experience you will get when paddling the Salmon river in Idaho state. Starting on a rushing alpine river and ending in a majestic desert canyon, the landscape is as diverse as it can get.

Salmon river

3. Chattooga River, South Carolina/Georgia

This wilderness river is legen… wait for it… DARY amongst paddlers. Riding class V rapids to soothing paddling trips in the summer, this river has it all. There are plenty of canoeing rental companies to be found in the area.

4. Arkansas river, Colorado

If you’re looking for an epic paddling adventure in the middle of the Rockies, there is no better option than the Arkansas river. It is considered the ultimate rafting destination, flowing on class II to V rapids while enjoying the scenery of fourteeners.

5. Tuolumne River, California

There is no lack of paddling options in California and still this river stands out. The Tuolumne river is one of the most scenic in the country. Flowing across Yosemite NP plunging into the Cherry Creek section, this is one incredible paddling journey.

Tuolumne River

6. Everglades National Park, Florida

Most of the Everglades is swampland, but it offers some perfect canoeing possibilities. Dolphins, racoons and alligators are some of most impressive wildlife to keep an eye on. With the many islands you can paddle around, the Everglades offer a great outdoor adventure.

Everglades NP

7. Boundary waters canoe area, Minnesota

The Boundary waters canoe area in Minnesota, situated on the border of northeastern Minnesota and the southwest border of northwestern Ontario is considered as the mecca of canoeing. With alot of lakes, rivers and woodlands, it’s a perfect setting for a multi-day journey.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area

Also read: the best places to kayak in Indiana