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 here are a few of the favorite local spots! There are many rental options around the area including Idaho Watersports, AWOL Adventure Sports, Idaho Guide Service and other rental options at certain locations.
- Shoshone Falls
- Heyburn Riverside Park
- Lake Cleveland
- Blue Heart Springs
- Dierkes Lake
- Ritter Island
- 1000 Springs Resort
Centennial Waterfront Park to Shoshone Falls
March 2024 Update: You cannot currently kayak past Pillar Falls. When kayaking at Centennial Waterfront Park, you will be required to get a (complimentary) hot wash from Idaho State Department of Agriculture. More information here: https://agri.idaho.gov/main/plants/snake-river-quagga-mussel-veligers/
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 area 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. The rental company, Idaho Watersports, will assist with getting you 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. There is boating and fishing on the Snake River in this area, as well.
Lake Walcott
Lake Walcott is a beautiful and quiet lake north of Rupert, Idaho. The area is actually established for wildlife management, so it is a perfect place to bird watch. At Walcott State Park it is convenient to put your kayaks in at the front end of the park near the disc golf holes, or drive into the park about to the boat launch area. There is a new business at Lake Walcott that now provides kayak rentals! Check out Adrift Kayaks to have a wonderful day on Lake Walcott.
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.
Banbury Hot Springs to Blue Heart Springs
Banbury Hot Springs offers affordable kayak and paddle board rentals. You must book your rentals before arrival or else they may be sold out. The location is extremely popular so we recommend visiting during the week day or off season. The employees will assist with any direction or help needed to get started in the water!
From Banbury you will kayak about a mile down the river to the hidden oasis called Blue Heart Springs. The vibrant blue pool is tucked away in a corner from the Snake River. The crystal clear water is encased in a lava rock cove making the entire experience so unique. 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
Paddle at Ritter Island for incredible views of waterfalls! The current is quick, so be prepared to paddle back with a lot more force. The water is also super clear and blue. It is great for snorkeling too.
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.
