Paddling

The park can be explored by kayaking rivers, lagoons, harbors, coves, and in the ocean.

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Paddling Details

Paddling is great way to see the park from a different perspective. Rivers, lagoons, harbors, coves, and the ocean are all available to kayakers, and each summer park rangers lead kayak tours of the Smith River. "Individuals interested in planning their own kayaking excursion can paddle the Smith River through Jedediah Smith State Park. With its turquoise waters, the river typically has class I and class II rapids depending on water level. This trip typically takes five to six hours. Alternatively, if you're interested in sea kayaking there are put-ins and take-outs at the park's beaches. Surf can be rough at times, so visitors should have experience with sea kayaking before setting off without a guide. Ranger-led kayak tours are held on Fridays and Saturdays from June through August. Each tour is about four hours long, and is completely free of charge for visitors (with donations accepted). The minimum age for this program is 10 years old, and any child between the age of 10 and 17 must ride tandem with an adult parent/guardian. Check for the week's schedule and sign up in person at the Hiouchi Information Center. Redwood Rides (707-951-6559) and Kayak Zak's (707-498-1130) are two local outfitters who lead paddling trips in the park.

Difficulty

Open

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