Kayaking and Paddle Boarding

 

Kayaking and paddle boarding in rivers and lakes are a great way to enjoy the outdoors. For those living near the beach, ocean kayaking is also a lot of fun. The price is right and the magnificent abundance of beauty you can experience will always be memorable.

Equipment

The equipment is reasonably priced to get started. For example, you can rent a kayak for $40-$75 a day and you can buy a mid-level kayak for $300-$800. Paddle boards are also available for rent and for purchase, beginning at about $300 and going up in price from there depending on the level of performance you desire. Previously owned equipment is also available and, depending on where you live, is relatively easy to find.

Make sure you include safety gear such as a life vest and, of course, a helmet if you are going to ride the rapids or venture out to more extreme waters. Head and neck injuries, which can happen at any level but are more common for extremists, are seen regularly by many of our providers. Most injuries are preventable with proper preparation and common sense.

It’s also important to prepare yourself for the proper temperature and weather changes, which may require you to wear a wet suit. You can pack an extra layer or two and even some rain gear and store it on your kayak or on your boards. Wrap it in a water proof sack until you need it.

Fuel

If you’re going to make a full day of it, bring some healthy snacks and plenty of water. Slice up some veggies. For protein, all natural beef or turkey jerky are great options as are almonds, cashews, and walnuts.

The diversity of terrain is awesome. Lakes can be calm and so are some rivers. As you build your skills you can tackle more daring waters where there are rapids or waves.

You never know what you might see on your journey. On a recent trip to Oregon, we saw a mother duck with a dozen ducklings exploring the lake just like we were. We also saw a deer grazing in the distance as well as numerous other birds and fish.

Kayaking and Paddle Boarding are 100 Year Lifestyle activities. You can enjoy them while you are young, as you get older, and as a family activity. Combined with camping and hiking, these activities make for memorable vacations.

Make sure you pick up after yourself and leave the environment better than how you found it. Enjoy the incredible natural resources near you and around the world on your kayaks and paddle boards—and enhance your sensational century.

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