Do you want to go on an adventure but it’s too cold to go kayaking? American winter kayaking is unlike anything you’ve ever done before. Explore breathtaking winter landscapes and wildlife in peace and quiet with the right equipment and planning. In this piece, we’ll discuss where and when to go for the best winter kayaking experiences in the United States.
| Destination | Location | Best Time to Visit | Accommodation Options | Must-See Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tahoe | California | Winter,Summer | Resorts, cabins, hotels | Emerald Bay, Sand Harbor Beach |
| Colorado River | Arizona | Winter, Fall | Camping, RV parks, resorts | Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend |
| Biscayne Bay | Florida | Winter, Spring | Hotels, resorts, Airbnb | Miami Beach, Vizcaya Museum |
| Breathless Bay | Bahamas | Year-round | Resorts, villas, hotels | Thunderball Grotto, Pig Beach |
| Catalina Island | California | Winter & Summer | Hotels, vacation rentals | Descanso Beach, Wrigley Memorial |
| Florida Everglades | Florida | Winter, Spring | Campgrounds, lodges, hotels | Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley |
What are Winter Kayaking Places in USA?
In case you weren’t aware, winter kayaking in the United States entails hitting the open water in the middle of winter. Since the activity calls for specialized gear and safety measures in colder temperatures, the experience can be all the more thrilling. It’s possible to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience by paddling a kayak through a winter landscape in a number of different locations across the United States.
Best Kayak Places for November
- Lake Tahoe, California:
It is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California called Lake Tahoe. The lake, located in both California and Nevada, is well-known for its transparent waters, which take on a variety of hues depending on the time of day. During the winter months, the snowy peaks of the nearby mountains make for a particularly beautiful scene. In the winter, the lake’s tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery make for a once-in-a-lifetime kayaking adventure.
The lake is usually calm in November, making it a great time for novices to give kayaking a try. It is recommended to wear a drysuit in order to protect yourself from the cold water temperatures. Kayakers should also bring safety gear like flares and a whistle in case of sudden weather changes.
Emerald Bay State Park and Sand Harbor State Park are just two of the many locations around the lake where kayaks can be launched. Fannette Island, part of Emerald Bay State Park, offers stunning panoramas of the nearby mountains. Lake exploration by kayak is a breeze at Sand Harbor State Park thanks to the park’s sandy beach and placid waters. When it comes to wintertime kayaking, this spot ranks among the best.
It is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California called Lake Tahoe. The lake, located in both California and Nevada, is well-known for its transparent waters, which take on a variety of hues depending on the time of day. During the winter months, the snowy peaks of the nearby mountains make for a particularly beautiful scene. In the winter, the lake’s tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery make for a once-in-a-lifetime kayaking adventure.
In addition, November is a great month to try kayaking for the first time because the lake is usually calm. It is recommended to wear a drysuit in order to protect yourself from the cold water temperatures. Kayakers should also bring safety gear like flares and a whistle in case of sudden weather changes.
Emerald Bay State Park and Sand Harbor State Park are just two of the many locations around the lake where kayaks can be launched. Fannette Island, part of Emerald Bay State Park, offers stunning panoramas of the nearby mountains. Lake exploration by kayak is a breeze at Sand Harbor State Park thanks to the park’s sandy beach and placid waters.
- 2. Colorado River, Arizona:
When kayaking down the Colorado River, you get to see some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery in one of the most iconic rivers in the United States. As it makes its way through the Grand Canyon, the river creates a breathtaking landscape of towering rock formations, colorful cliffs, and rushing waterfalls. An additional top spot for winter kayaking
In general, November is a mild month, and the river is less crowded than in the summer. November’s average daytime high temperature of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect for kayaking. A drysuit or wetsuit is recommended because the water is significantly colder. Lee’s Ferry, near the beginning of the Grand Canyon, is one of the most frequented put-ins for kayakers on the Colorado River.
From Lee’s Ferry, kayakers can travel several miles downstream through the Grand Canyon, taking in the spectacular views along the way. Note that Grand Canyon kayaking on the Colorado River is not for the faint of heart. There is a risk of getting swept away in the rapids, and the water’s velocity and direction are both unknowns. Paddlers unfamiliar with the river should only venture out with a guide or an experienced companion. Another thing to mention is that, If you plan to come to this place, a sit-on-top kayak will be amazing as you can more clearly see the captivating beauty of the place and enjoy your trip further. If you don’t know what is a sit-on-top kayak, then you can check Sit-in vs Sit-on-top kayak difference.
Best Kayak Places for December & January
- Biscayne Bay, Florida:
You can enjoy the warm weather and the opportunity to see a wide variety of marine life in Biscayne Bay in the month of January. Dolphins, manatees, and many different kinds of birds, including the roseate spoonbill and the laughing gull, make their home in the bay. The tranquil waters here are perfect for paddling and snorkeling, so it’s no surprise that kayakers love it. A great spot for winter kayaking close to the city.
2. Breathless Bay, Bahamas:
Many visitors to The Bahamas come to Breathless Bay specifically to go snorkeling or scuba diving. The bay is teeming with marine life, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and even turtles that come to the shore to soak up some rays.
It is famous for kayaking because of the calm waters, and for its white sand beaches, which are also popular with surfers.Breckenridge, Colorado: Breckenridge is a ski resort and town in Summit County but it is also famous for its abundance of high-altitude lakes and rivers. The town has a population of around 900 people but can accommodate many more during the winter months due to an increase in visitors who enjoy the slopes at Breckenridge Ski Resort, as well as ice skating at Lake Dillon Park or tubing on White River. Recreational activities during summer include hiking to see howler monkeys by Lake Dillon.
3. Catalina Island, California:
Catalina Island is well-known not only for its resort communities and beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and spa treatments, but also for its verdant landscapes and stunning natural beauty. The quiet water is perfect for kayaking in the winter, and it’s also a fun place to take the kids on a summer outing. Portland, Oregon, is well-known for more than just its impressive cultural offerings and delicious cuisine. If you like to eat out, you’re going to really enjoy this city.
4. Florida Everglades:
The Everglades are a one-of-a-kind wetland area that provide a tranquil setting for kayaking. The weather is mild and the water is at its highest in January, making it an ideal time to go sightseeing. than during the warmer summer months. Over 100 square miles can be covered on a single kayaking expedition, covering distances of up to 20 miles south to north. Tours of the Everglades can last as little as four hours if you choose to explore the smaller, more accessible areas like Shark Valley and Tamiami Trail by kayak. The feel of the jungle in the middle of winter is perfect for kayaking.
Best Kayak Places for February
- Big Bear Lake, California:
Kayaking on Big Bear Lake in the winter is a wonderful experience due to the lake’s tranquility and the beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains. You’ll enjoy the lake more in February because it’s less busy than in the rest of the winter. It’s difficult to pick just one outdoor activity to do in Big Bear because there are so many! Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the marina and paddle around the nearby mountains on your own, or bring some friends along for the ride. Visit Ice Cube Park in the winter for ice skating and sledding after getting your heart rate up exploring new territory.
2. Redfish Lake, Idaho:
Although most people visit Redfish Lake in the summer, you can also go kayaking there in the winter for a truly memorable experience. The lake freezes over in February, allowing visitors to paddle across the ice and discover the beautiful winter landscape. Thus, a further top spot for winter kayaking is easily accessible.
3. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming:
Winter paddling on Grand Teton’s expansive, snow-covered lake is a popular tourist attraction. At this time of year, the cold temperatures allow for easier breathing. Your winter kayaking needs can be met at this location.
Best Kayak Places for March
4. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin:
The Apostle Islands of Lake Superior can be found to the north of Wisconsin. These 22 stunning islands make up a stunning archipelago. The islands are stunning for their natural ruggedness, as well as their pristine beaches and crystal blue waters. Winter kayakers flock to the Apostle Islands to explore the ice caves and frozen waterfalls. One of a kind kayaking in the Apostle Islands in March. Ice caverns, which are normally inaccessible during the summer, are now available for exploration. A fantastic and adventurous spot to go kayaking in the winter.
An unforgettable memory can be made while kayaking past frozen waterfalls and ice formations. There’s more to do on the Apostle Islands than paddle a kayak. The islands and Lake Superior can be seen from various vantage points. On the islands, you can spot bald eagles, black bears, and white-tailed deer. The islands are popular destinations for campers and backpackers. When the temperature rises in March, but the ice remains on the Apostle Islands, the result is a truly remarkable and unforgettable adventure. In the Apostle Islands, kayaking can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure if you’re prepared.
5. San Juan Islands, Washington:
The San Juan Islands are located off the coast of Washington State. Only a small fraction of the 170 islands in this archipelago are accessible to tourists. Fans of kayaking travel to the islands to experience the region’s stunning scenery, pristine waters, and diverse wildlife. Kayaking in the San Juan Islands is a relaxing way to explore the islands’ many coves, bays, and rocky shores. Orcas, humpback whales, seals, and sea lions can all be spotted regularly around the islands. Calm, protected waters are perfect for novice kayakers and families to take in the sights and marine life. March is an excellent month to visit the San Juan Islands because the weather is mild and wildlife is active. Sea lions and harbor seals sun themselves on the rocky shores, and passing pods of orcas provide an awe-inspiring soundtrack. As they soar through the sky, bald eagles, ospreys, and other seabirds can be seen circling the islands. In addition to kayaking, the San Juan Islands have a lot more to offer. Many people visit islands to go hiking, biking, or whale watching. Tourists can unwind and experience island life at one of the islands’ many quaint villages, galleries, or eateries. Great spot for kayaking in the winter.
Winter Kayaking in USA things to keep in mind:
Paddling a kayak through the United States is a fantastic way to see the landscape up close and personal. Experienced kayakers will find it an exhilarating adventure, while novices will find it a soothing pastime. It’s important to remember a few things before setting out on a kayaking adventure, though. Planning a kayaking trip in the United States requires familiarity with local regulations, forethought in the face of unpredictable weather, the inclusion of essential items like life jackets and first aid kits, and an awareness of potential dangers.
If you need tips on how to prepare for your very first winter kayaking, don’t forget to check this full guide about winter kayaking tips.
