Your go-to guide for all things kayak + canoe this summer

Any paddling enthusiasts out there? This one’s for you. With all the beautiful rivers we have near Birmingham, paddle sports are a go-to for adventurers in our area. Or if you’re ready to road trip, we’ve also gathered additional Alabama opportunities.

Here’s our guide to make a splash in the water this summer!

Tree Line Expeditions

For all ages, Tree Line Expeditions will float down the beautiful Cahaba River. The float will begin at 7:30, so you can enjoy it without the harsh sun beating down on you. Gear will be provided, but bring bug spray and a water bottle if you please.

• Cahaba Full Moon Paddle
  • Where: 1137 S Shadesview Terrace, Birmingham
  • When: 7:30 PM | Jul 7th | Jul 8th | Jul 9th

• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Cahaba River Society

This guided tour will bring you along the Cahaba River through Selma Chalk Country. Participants will meet at Amped Fitness and launch off US Hwy 280 Access, not far out for folks in Irondale. Expect a 12.4 mile medium paddle and a full day in the water. Here’s a checklist of what to bring:

• Water (1 Liter)
• Lunch
• Sunscreen / sunhat
• Close toed water shoes
• Photography equipment
• Coolers are welcome

• Where: Amped Fitness in the Colonnade
• When: 8 AM | August 10

• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Birmingham Canoe Club

The Birmingham Canoe Club is dedicated to all things paddling, canoeing + kayaking. Alongside the water fun, they host a social at a different Birmingham brewery every other month. The event is perfect for those interested in water sports + meeting people!

• Where: Back Forty Brewery
• When: July 3rd | 6 PM

• Where: Good People Brewing
• When: Sep 4th | 6 PM

• Where: Trim Tab Brewing
• When: Nov 6th | 6 PM

• Website | Facebook

Further Down the River

Montgomery Whitewater

Montgomery Whitewater is the place to be this summer. With events at the park almost every night, this summer will be packed. Sounds like the perfect way to cool off in the heat!

• Wednesday Night Ducky Club
  • When: Wednesdays at 4 + 5:30PM
  • Tickets: $30 | Walkup only
• 4th of July
  • Details coming soon
• Run Paddle Run
  • When: July 19th at 9AM
  • Registration: $35

• Location: 1100 Maxwell Blvd, Montgomery
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Alabama Scenic River Trail

The ASRT is a great experience for starters. Some of these events provide the gear for you, and some offer low-flow white water experiences for those just wanting to relax.

• Sweet Caroline Fridays
  • Where: Montgomery Whitewater
  •  When: Jun 27 | Jul 11 | Jul 25 | Aug 8 | Aug 29
• Bring Your Own Float
  • Where: Tallapoosa River | Sepulga River
  • When: 9 AM | Jul 3rd | Aug 12
• Summer Paddling Series
  • Where: Chattanooga River | Paint Rock River
  • When: Jul 16th | Aug 20th
• Special Event Paddles
  • Where: Geneva
  • When: Sep 29th – Oct 5th
• Great Alabama 650 Race
  • Where: Weiss Lake-Mobile Bay
  • When: Oct 4 – Oct 14

• Website | Facebook | Instagram

Where to rent canoes + kayaks in Birmingham

• Lake Purdy
  • Where: 3780 Boat Launch Rd, Birmingham
  • Cost: 2 hours | $25
  • Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Oak Mountain State Park
  • FlipSide Watersports
    • Where: 8195 John Findlay III Dr, Birmingham
    • Cost: $25-$30 an hour
  • Oak Mountain Marina
    • Where: Terrace Dr, Birmingham
  • Website | Facebook | Instagram

What do you think, Birmingham? Do you plan to get out on the water this summer? Let us know on Facebook, Instagram, + LinkedIn