6 Unforgettable Places to Canoe or Kayak in Minnesota

Craving the perfect summer day? Grab a paddle and your watercraft of choice to soak up the warm weather and admire Minnesota's brilliant scenery mirrored across the surface of regional rivers.

Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources maintains 32 designated water trails(opens in new window) throughout the state for kayakers, canoeists and stand-up paddleboarders. It’s the oldest water trail system in the nation, having started more than 50 years ago and now covering more than 4,400 miles.

They range from quiet, designated wild and scenic stretches of the Mississippi River to whitewater rafting through rocky rapids in northeastern Minnesota. Each waterway rewards paddlers with a distinct personality, and newcomers to the sport or now-and-again adventurers can find outfitters that offer equipment rental, shuttles, fishing advice, guided outings and classes.

Here’s a look at some of Minnesota’s favorite places to paddle:

https://www.euronews.com/nativo/all-sov?prx_t=LnMHAIBlUA8eoQA&ntv_acpl=1108721&ntv_acsc=2&ntv_idp=1&ntv_gsscm=576*7;820*4;777*8;&ntv_ht=EV1dYgA&dclid=CKzK-uzRnfcCFa2XAAAdXMcGkg