Where to Paddle, Kayak, and Float in DeKalb County
Where to Paddle, Kayak, + Float in DeKalb County, Alabama
Written By Emma Goggans
We may be dreaming of crisp mornings and changing leaves, but summer isn’t going anywhere just yet. With August temperatures still bringing the heat, there’s no better time to beat it by getting out on the water and seeing DeKalb County from a whole new perspective. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful kayak trip behind DeSoto Falls, an adrenaline-filled whitewater adventure through Little River Canyon, or a relaxing float down the river, there are plenty of ways to get outside and enjoy the water.
The beauty of DeKalb County is that there’s a paddling adventure for every type of paddler, from beginners looking for a leisurely afternoon on the water to experienced kayakers ready to take on challenging rapids. Here are some of the best places to paddle, kayak, and float in DeKalb County.
Where to Paddle & Kayak:
For a peaceful paddle surrounded by some of Lookout Mountain’s most beautiful scenery, head to the Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack at DeSoto Falls. Located at the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area, the paddle shack offers sit-on-top kayak rentals for exploring the West Fork of Little River above the A. A. Miller Dam.
This flatwater paddle is a great option for beginners, families, or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day on the water. Park staff help visitors launch from the boat ramp, and paddlers can travel upriver at their own pace before turning around and returning to the launch point. The trip can be up to four miles round trip, or you can simply paddle as far as you’d like before heading back.
Single and tandem sit-on-top kayaks are available to rent, with paddles and life vests provided. There’s no shuttle, so visitors can customize the length of their adventure to fit their group and experience level.
Miller’s Bend Paddle Shack is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with no boats launching after 5 p.m. Weekday reservations are also available by appointment with at least 24 hours advance notice.
Small watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and johnboats, may also be launched at the picnic area boat ramp.
Looking for a quieter place to get out on the water? DeKalb County Public Lake is a 120-acre lake located on Sand Mountain in Sylvania. With a boat ramp available for launching your own watercraft, it’s a great option for paddlers who prefer exploring at their own pace.
Bring your kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or other small watercraft and spend a relaxing day enjoying the scenery while trying to catch your prize bass. Its calm lake setting makes it a nice choice for those looking for a more laid-back paddling experience away from the rushing water of a whitewater river.
Whitewater Kayaking in Little River Canyon
For experienced paddlers looking for something much more challenging, Little River Canyon National Preserve offers some of the most exciting whitewater kayaking in the region.
Unlike the calm waters at DeSoto Falls and DeKalb County Lake, Little River can transform dramatically depending on rainfall. The river is almost completely rain-fed, and November through April is typically the best time for paddling when water levels are high enough to make the river navigable.
Above Little River Falls, portions of the river offer relatively gentle whitewater, including Class III rapids, and can be appropriate for beginning and intermediate kayakers and canoeists with the proper skills and experience. Below the falls, however, the river becomes significantly more challenging, with Class IV, V, and VI rapids.
This section of the river is for highly skilled whitewater kayakers only. Little River’s challenging rapids have even attracted members of the U.S. Olympic kayak team for training.
Water levels can change quickly, especially following heavy rainfall. Paddlers should always check current river conditions, understand the difficulty of the section they plan to paddle, and never attempt whitewater beyond their skill level.
During the summer and fall, Little River can become extremely shallow or even dry during periods of drought, so always check conditions before planning a trip.
Guided Whitewater Adventures
If you’re interested in whitewater kayaking but want to build your skills before heading out on your own, True Adventure Sports offers guided whitewater experiences in Alabama rivers.
True Adventure Sports has shifted its focus toward whitewater events and no longer offers recreational canoe and kayak trips, but their experienced team can help connect paddlers with local opportunities. They also offer whitewater kayak adventures in the canyon and provide free shuttles for whitewater kayaking in the canyon.
Participants must complete a roll class or demonstrate proof of prior experience before taking part in their whitewater adventures. This experience requirement helps ensure that paddlers are prepared for the demands of the river before taking on the rapids.
For experienced paddlers ready to take their skills to the next level, a guided whitewater adventure can be an exciting way to experience the rivers of Northeast Alabama.
Where to Float
Sometimes the best way to spend a summer day on the water is to simply sit back, relax, and let the river do the work. Mentone Excursions offers a two-hour tubing float down the East Fork of Little River, providing a laid-back way to enjoy the scenery and cool off during the warmer months.
The float is a great option for those who want to experience Little River without the intensity of whitewater kayaking. Grab a tube, settle in, and enjoy a relaxing trip down the river surrounded by the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain.
Trips are available by appointment. To book your float, contact Mentone Excursions.
Whether you’re paddling the calm waters above DeSoto Falls, exploring DeKalb County Lake, tackling the whitewater of Little River Canyon, or floating down the East Fork with Mentone Excursions, DeKalb County offers plenty of ways to make a splash this summer.
From peaceful paddles to adrenaline-pumping rapids, you don’t have to look far to find your perfect adventure on the water. Grab your paddle, gather your friends and family, and get ready to experience Lookout Mountain from a whole new perspective.
