Kayaking Kanawha Falls: Guided paddle to the cascades

Paddle to the base of Kanawha Falls and hike to the upper cascades

Kayak or paddleboard Kanawha Falls near Fayetteville with a licensed guide, paddling out for a lesson before heading toward the cascades, then landing to hike to an upper section of the falls. The tour runs about two hours on the Kanawha River and accommodates all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers. Children are welcome from age five.

Step-by-step itinerary

Paddle board or kayak at Kanawha Falls

• Meet at the parking lot
• Receive quick paddle lesson
• Paddle towards the waterfalls
• Take a short break
• Hike to upper section of falls

The experience

About two hours on the water gets you from the parking lot to Kanawha Falls and back. You start with a quick lesson in paddling technique, then head out toward the cascades that drop across the Kanawha River. The guide handles the route and timing. You operate the kayak or paddleboard. Mountain Surf Paddle Sports, the exclusive outfitter at this site, provides all the equipment (kayaks or paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets), so you arrive and paddle.

Midway through, you land and hike to an upper section of the falls to see the water from a different angle. The guide shares insights into the area's natural history and ecology as you move through the Appalachian landscape. The tour is designed for all fitness levels, whether you've paddled before or this is your first time on the water.

What’s included

• Licensed guide in English.
• kayak or paddleboard of your choice.
• paddle.
• life jacket.
• short lesson before paddling out.
• landing and short hike to an upper section of the falls.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 4 Aug 2027

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (5 to 17 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Mountain Surf Paddle Sports

Is this one for you?The two-hour paddle includes a lesson at the start, so beginners can join. The guide sets the pace and handles navigation, leaving you to focus on paddling and the landscape around you.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 17 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What should I bring to kayak Kanawha Falls?

Bring a change of clothes and a towel, as you will get wet. The outfitter provides all paddling equipment, life jackets, and paddles. Wear shoes that can get wet or go barefoot. The parking lot is where you meet the guide.

What is the hike like during the tour?

The hike to the upper section of the falls is short and happens during the tour. You land your kayak or paddleboard, walk to a higher vantage point of the cascades, then return to the water to paddle back.

Do I need paddling experience to book this?

No. The tour includes a quick lesson at the start and is designed for all skill levels. The guide leads the route and adjusts the pace to match the group.

How far is Kanawha Falls from Fayetteville?

Kanawha Falls is located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains near Fayetteville. Public transportation options are available nearby if you do not have a car.