Kayaking on the Roanoke River
Overview
The River Adventure:
The water flows gently, creating a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Throughout the journey, kayakers will encounter various Class I rapids, providing a bit of excitement without being overly challenging.
Scenic Views and Wildlife:
Keep an eye out for frequent wildlife sightings, including blue herons, bald eagles, turtles, deer, and various fish species. The opportunity to connect with nature amidst the urban setting is a unique and rewarding aspect of this kayaking adventure.
Community and Culture:
As the kayaking route meanders through the heart of Roanoke, paddlers will pass by charming neighborhoods and urban scenes. The river seamlessly blends the natural environment with the city's vibrant culture, creating a distinctive and memorable experience.
What's Included
- Sit on Top Recreational Kayak
- Guide
Meeting Location
Winchester Avenue Southwest
Roanoke, VA 24015, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
IMPORTANT: THIS SHUTTLE MEETS AT THE WASENA PARK TAKE-OUT, NOT RMA!
Participant Requirements:
All participants must be able to swim.
Minimum age for shuttle and river activities is 14 with an adult.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are mandatory while on the river. Suitable footwear (no flip flops) is also required.
Experience and Safety:
Previous kayaking or canoeing experience is strongly recommended due to class I and II rapids.
The kayak shuttle requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
Kayak Rental and River Details:
Kayaking on the Roanoke River from Rotary Park to Wasena Park offers a delightful and scenic adventure through the heart of Roanoke, Virginia. This 6-mile stretch of the river is known for its urban charm, lush surroundings, and gentle rapids, making it an ideal kayaking route for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
As paddlers set off from Rotary Park, they'll immediately be immersed in the serene natural beauty of the Roanoke River. The water flows gently, creating a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Throughout the journey, kayakers will encounter various Class I rapids, providing a bit of excitement without being overly challenging.
The river is lined with trees, offering a peaceful and tranquil environment. Keep an eye out for frequent wildlife sightings, including blue herons, bald eagles, turtles, deer, and various fish species. The opportunity to connect with nature amidst the urban setting is a unique and rewarding aspect of this kayaking adventure.
Depending on water levels, the journey typically takes 2.5 - 3.5 hours on the water.
The river has lively yet relaxing class I rapids, with some class II rapids based on water levels.
The trip is suitable for beginners, but basic paddling maneuvers are required to navigate the river.
Please be aware of various river features and hazards along the way.
Weather Notes:
We provide a raincheck in the event of shuttle cancellation due to intense weather or unsafe water levels.
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(10)Q: Are there any weight restrictions for kayaking?
A: The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg. Read more Nov 2021
Cancellation Policy
Questions?
Our friendly customer support is here to help.
Activity code: C-414980P3
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (10)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
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The maximum weight capacity for kayaking is 340 lbs / 154 kg.
Nov 2021No experience is necessary! Beginners are welcome on all of our kayak tours. Most of our guests have never been in a sea kayak before. Anyone in average physical condition may join a kayak tour. If you can hike or bike, you can paddle our sea kayaks. You do not need any swimming skills either.
The only prerequisite is a healthy spirit of curiosity and adventure.
Regardless of age or skill level you will find that our expeditions offer enough flexibility to make your experience with us safe and rewarding. We will show you proper sea kayaking technique and water safety before leaving the beach. And your expert guides will be with you throughout the adventure to give you pointers and improve your skills.
Sep 2022Your safety is City Boat Tours‘s number one concern. In general, sea kayaking is safer than most other outdoor pursuits, even bicycling.
Jan 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Sit on Top Recreational Kayak.
- Guide.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 14. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Kayaking on the Roanoke River is as follows:
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Kayaking on the Roanoke River will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Sit on Top Recreational Kayak
- Guide
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travelers
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