If you’re looking to get away from it all, but on a budget, consider taking a kayak trip. Kayaks are far more affordable than hiking or camping equipment, and just as easy to use. With the proper training and experience, all you’ve got to do is sit down inside the kayak and start paddling. Here are the top places to go kayaking in the United States.
Michigan
Michigan is a top kayaking destination if you want to go somewhere with a wide variety of landscapes. While most people think of Michigan in terms of its Great Lakes shoreline, the state also has coastal areas, small islands, and even inland rivers. The great thing about paddling along Lake Michigan is that there are so many options where you can stop along the way. And as the folks at https://www.watersportswhiz.com/ say whether you like paddling in small lakes or adventures, Michigan has a place for you. Some ideal spots for kayaking include Wilderness State Park, where there can be as many as 1,500 freshwater islands and coastal areas, Bay Furnace Park in the Upper Peninsula, and Platte River Point Campground near Traverse City.
New Jersey
If you’re looking for a quiet place to go kayaking with little chance of seeing many people, head on down to New Jersey’s Delaware Bay. This bay hugs New Jersey’s shoreline from Cape May Point to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The Delaware Bay has been called “the most underrated boating destination in America” by those who know it best, and kayaking is a great way to explore this area at your own pace.
Other good spots for kayaking include the C&D Canal towpath, West Creek on the Great Egg Harbor River, and on your way out to the bay, check out the New Jersey Pinelands.
Washington
Washington is a state that has plenty to offer paddlers of all experience levels, including those who are looking for something quick and easy. The state capital is Olympia, which offers nice secluded areas to paddle in.
You can also kayak along the Kitsap Peninsula, which is a popular place for kayakers due to all of its inlets and bays. There are a number of islands in the area where you can stop for a picnic or even spend the night if you’re really into your kayaking trip. The state’s south coast is another great place to kayak, where you can explore some of the best wildlife viewing sites in the state. Visit places like Tokeland and Westport for a change from typical paddling trips.
Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, one of the most popular places to go kayaking is along the Door Peninsula. The peninsula’s location makes it a great place to go kayaking and it’s even part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Another good spot for kayaking is along the Wolf River, which has many quiet coves and bays that are ideal for those who want to get away from everything.
North Carolina
North Carolina is another great spot for those who prefer kayaking on the water as opposed to rocks and rivers. Since North Carolina is a coastal state, you can explore some of the most beautiful parts of the Atlantic coast by kayak, including barrier islands and lighthouses.
Hands down one of the best places to go kayaking in North Carolina is Cape Lookout National Seashore. The best way to get there is by boat so that you don’t have to kayak the whole distance. There are many different coves and islands in this area that you can explore along your route.
Utah
One of Utah’s most popular paddling destinations is Elephant Butte Lake State Park in the southwestern part of the state. You can do some kayaking or canoeing along with fishing, swimming and even camping if you want to make a full weekend out of it. The lake provides great views no matter where you are on its waters.
Another great spot for kayaking is Bear Lake, which is the largest natural freshwater lake in the state and it’s right next to a popular ski resort so you can even go down to take a look at the area after you’re done with your kayak trip.
There are plenty of great places for kayaking all over the US, including most coastal areas which can be combined with some great wildlife spotting opportunities. Kayaking is worth it if you want to do something that’s truly unique and helps you appreciate the natural beauty of the country in a deeper way.