Paddling paradise: Kayaking adventures in Northern America

There is no better way to explore North America’s breathtaking waterways than from the comfort of a kayak. The region is home to a great diversity of landscapes, from tranquil lakes to open seas and rushing rivers. Kayaking not only offers a peaceful means to explore independently, but is also the perfect option for immersing yourself in nature in a sustainable way.

Adventure awaits anybody keen to experience North America’s beauty from the water, whether you are new to kayaking or a seasoned paddler in search of a new playground. Let’s take a look at some of the top kayaking adventures in Northern America.

Discover hidden caves at Apostle Islands

Apostle Islands in Lake Superior - one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world - are home to an array of stunning natural sights. The region is best explored by boat and kayakers can develop an itinerary that incorporates sea caves, beautiful beaches, hikes, archways and wildlife encounters. There are 21 islands in the archipelago and the short distances between them make for the perfect island-hopping kayak tour, with plenty of opportunities to explore the individual islands’ offerings.

The islands are famous for their magnificent sea caves, which are not to be missed and can be explored independently or with group tours. Just make sure you check the National Park Service information before you embark on your kayaking adventure - the area can be hazardous in poor conditions.

If you’re keen to inject a little more mindful adventure into your exploration, there is the option to set up camp on some of the islands and watch the sunset to the rhythm of waves lapping the shoreline. From beautiful hiking spots (be sure to check out the Meyers Beach Sea Cakes Lakeshore Trail),  to hidden waterfalls (don’t miss Lost Creek Falls, near Cornucopia), and peaceful beaches (there are plenty of beaches to choose from; Little Sand Bay is a great option for beach camping), there are lots of natural sights to incorporate into yourApostle Islands kayaking adventure.

Marvel at glaciers at Prince William Sound

Nestled in one of North America’s majestic ice worlds, Prince William Sound is a serene kayaking location off the coast of Alaska. A true adventure into untouched wilderness, a kayak journey through the fjords of Prince William Sound is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. The destination is perfect for those in search of a serene, mindful experience to reconnect with nature.

With temperatures commonly plummeting below zero, though, the trip isn’t for the faint hearted - solo kayaking requires some serious preparation, but there are group options that make the adventure an option for travellers of all experience levels. Paddling through the icy waters, explorers can expect to witness incredible glaciers and a whole range of icy landscapes. With high walls and narrow paths, kayaking through the fjords will feel as though you are entering another world.

The trip can be particularly special for wildlife enthusiasts; along the way, explorers can be graced by appearances from seals, sea lions, sea otters, bald eagles, and even whales. Visitors can camp beneath the stars and watch the moonlight reflect off the glistening landscape before heading out for another day of nature watching and island hopping.

Bask in natural beauty at Boundary Waters

Navigate through the landscape of intertwining lakes, rivers and portage trails (that is, areas of land where you carry your boat between water bodies) in northern Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The expansive network of waterways provide ever-changing scenery as you paddle through the nature-rich region. Paddling around boundary waters is a tranquil escape for kayakers. With a ban on motorboats in the majority of the waters, the region is peaceful and bursting with wildlife. Majestic pine forests line the waterways and lucky visitors might spot black bears, moose and even wolves!

Despite its biodiversity, it is extremely rare for people to have close encounters with dangerous animals at Boundary Waters and it is a brilliant destination for avid campers. Shores of the beautiful lakes offer perfect camping spots, where you can pitch up in the shelter of ancient trees and fall asleep to the sounds of nature’s symphony. The area is also ideal for stargazing. If you are incorporating camping into your trip, why not go for a late-night paddle to truly appreciate the night sky in all its glory?

Begin your kayaking adventure in paradise

What better way to explore untouched wilderness and witness stunning wildlife than from the seat of a kayak? Kayaking is the perfect way to explore sustainably without leaving a trace of your visit. The peaceful environment is ideal for a mindful getaway and the physical element adds a layer of adventure to any kayaking trip. What’s more, kayaking gives you full control over your trip, allowing the flexibility to explore far and wide, in your own way.

The waterways of Northern America are on the bucket list of kayakers around the globe, but kayaking in Northern America isn’t only for experienced adventurers. Kayaking trips are accessible to everybody - with so many waterways to choose between, there are plenty of options for tranquil kayaking journeys, as well as more extreme trips in the form of guided group tours.

It is important to plan your kayaking trip carefully and prepare for any potential issues, including bad weather and wildlife encounters, but with the right orangisation, a kayaking adventure in one of Northern America’s top kayak regions is sure to be a trip of a lifetime.