Summer weather calls for getting on the water! What better way to cool off than hoping into a kayak? There are endless possibilities for kayaking around Southern Idaho, so we are going to give away all the favorite local spots! There are many rental options around the area including 1000 Springs Tours, AWOL Adventure Sports, and other rental options at certain locations.
Centennial Waterfront Park to Shoshone Falls
This adventure is one for the books. The five mile excursion begins at Centennial Waterfront Park where you can rent a kayak from AWOL and get in at one of the docks. From here, you will paddle east towards the Perrine Bridge. Paddle under the bridge and watch the BASE jumpers soar above you! Continue on until you run into two giant pillars in the middle of the river. This is called Pillar Falls, and you will need to get out of the water here. Hike over the river falls area and get back into the water on the other side. Finally you will reach the base of Shoshone Falls and see the view only few ever see in their lifetime!
Heyburn Riverside Park
Kayak rentals are available right on the river, close to the Mini Cassia Chamber of Commerce. From here the employees will assist with getting into the water and pointing you in the right direction. Kayaking down here is very pretty as it sits at the base of the mountains.
Lake Cleveland
Drive up past Pomerelle Ski Resort and arrive at Lake Cleveland. This beautiful alpine lake glimmers in the sunny sky. There are many access points around the lake to put the kayaks in. The lake is small, but paddling from one side to another takes some time! Take a dip on a hot day to really cool off in the chilly water. There are scenic views all around including Mt Harrison and Independence Lakes.
Miracle Hot Springs to Blue Heart Springs
Miracle Hot Springs offers affordable kayak and paddle board rentals. The employees will assist with any direction or help needed to get started in the water! From there, about a mile down the river, is a hidden oasis called Blue Heart Springs. The crystal clear water is encased in a lava rock cove tucked away next to the Snake River. The currents are pretty mellow on a calm day, but it can be difficult paddling back against the current, especially in the wind. Be prepared with water, snacks, and lots of sunscreen! Take a dip in Blue Heart’s freezing water to really cool off on a hot day. Look closely at the water below to see it bubbling!
Dierkes Lake
Causal kayaking is best done at Dierke’s Lake. The lake sits above Shoshone Falls, and has amazing views of the canyon. Many kayakers and paddle boarders like to sit back and relax up here. There is a beautiful walking path all around the lake, so bring the entire family here for many options of swimming, hiking, and kayaking! There are docks and beaches with easy access to the water.
Ritter Island
Kayaking around Ritter Island is perfect for a family day. The waters don’t have too much of a current, and the is mostly shallow. Ritter Island also has easy access with a parking lot next to the water, and many options to put the kayaks in. There is a variety of wildlife, and has a family picnic area with a view of waterfalls and aqua blue water.
1000 Springs Resort
Two of the most beautiful places to kayak are Ritter Island and Blue Heart Springs. These are both located near 1000 Springs Resort! 1000 Springs offers canoes, single kayaks, and tandem kayaks for rental. Paddling through this area is also gorgeous because of the many waterfalls scattered throughout the walls of the canyon. Lemon Falls is one of the largest and most beautiful and can be seen from the water perfectly! Monday – Tuesday hours are closed. Wednesday – Saturday hours are 9AM to 5PM, and Sunday hours are 9AM to 1PM.
Malad River
This run is only for extremely experienced kayakers. There are many rocks, rough waters, and a bridge to avoid! Head east off of HWY 30 and follow Malad River up the canyon. The Malad River runs east to west flowing into the Snake River. It is best executed by having one person drive the kayaks up to the access area, the kayakers beginning the run, then the driver heads to the Snake River to meet the kayakers at the end.
Earth To Sarah 