Outdoor Chattanooga and OutVenture Offer Free and Low-Cost Kayak Adventures for Summer, please check back for the 2009 schedule!
Outdoor Chattanooga, and their programming arm, OutVenture invite the public to cool off this summer with a series of free kayak adventures and low-cost guided excursions for adults and kids. Trips have been designed for all skill levels, and will take place from June through October.
For the second year, the free Beginners’ Kayak Adventures will take place at area parks on July 11, August 9, and September 6. These events give the public the opportunity to try kayaking on the calm waters of area lakes, under the supervision of OutVenture and Outdoor Chattanooga staff and volunteers.
More advanced trips for paddlers with their own boats and gear will take place on July 25, Sept. 13, and Oct. 24. These free, guided trips will give participants a chance to explore more challenging flat water rivers around Chattanooga.
For people without kayaks and canoes, OutVenture will offer several guided excursions, with costs beginning at $25 per person. Boats, paddles, life vests, transportation (when needed) and guides are all included.
Trips you can look forward to doing next Spring/Summer 2009
Beginner Kayak Adventures
OutVenture will provide kayaks for people to try out on the still waters of local lakes. This is a safe, easy way for absolute beginners to try kayaking under the supervision of professional staff and experienced volunteers. Participants should be prepared to get wet.
BYO-Boat Guided Kayak/Canoe Trips
Designed for more experienced paddlers, these free, guided trips will take place on the Tennessee River and area lakes. Participants will bring their own boats and gear. Some kayaking/canoeing experience is required.
Meet at Rivermont Park on Chattanooga’s north shore and paddle down river to Coolidge Park.
*Williams Island Tour
A day trip to explore the farms, wetlands, and unique features of Williams Island. The excursion will include time for lunch and exploration on the island.
**NEW!!!* Twilight Paddle in Downtown Chattanooga
Watch the sun set and the city lights come to life during this leisurely paddle around downtown Chattanooga. We'll put in at Renaissance Park, paddle around Maclellan Island, and catch the cool evening air as the waterfront comes to life. Previous kayaking/canoeing experience is recommended. A white running light is required on all boats.
OutVenture Guided Trips
On these low-cost trips, participants will explore local rivers and lakes under the supervision of experienced OutVenture guides. All equipment will be provided. The trips are appropriate for adults and children ages 14 and older when accompanied by an adult. Call OutVenture at (423) 842-6629 for more information or to make a reservation.
This trip will take participants in and around the sloughs and inlets of Sale Creek in north Hamilton County. Boats, gear, transportation, and guides will be provided.
OutVenture/Tennessee Aquarium Guided Trips
These trips, in partnership with the Tennessee Aquarium, offer participants the chance to explore the waters all around Chattanooga. All trips are geared for adults and children ages 14 and older, and all equipment, guides, and transportation (when needed) are provided. Visit: TN Aquarium or call the Tennessee Aquarium at (423) 265-0698 for more information or to make a reservation.
*Sunset Kayak Trip
A kayak trip around downtown Chattanooga, including Maclellan Island, the Bluff, the Passage, and Coolidge Park.
*Touring Kayak Clinics
Learn kayaking basics like proper paddling techniques, how to adjust, enter and exit a boat, safety guidelines and what to do if you turn over. Dress to get wet.
*WOW: Women on the Water
Ladies, strap on a pair of water sandals and join OutVenture for a laid-back adventure on local rivers and lakes with other women. All equipment is provided, including a female guide. Adult women only.
*Full Moon Paddle
Paddle by the light of the full moon around the islands of Harrison Bay. All equipment, transport, snack and beverage are included. Adults only.
*Tennessee River Gorge Paddle
Paddle the Tennessee River Blueway through the heart of the Tennessee River Gorge, ending at the Tennessee River Gardens, a private nature reserve.
*Nickajack Bat Cave Paddle
From a seat in a kayak, explore Nickajack Lake and then watch 100,000 endangered gray bats exit the Nickajack Cave.
