Kayaking, canoeing + paddleboarding are great ways to explore the KC area. These aquatic sports also offer both physical and mental health benefits that extend far beyond a day on the water.

Before we dive in, let’s get a lay of the land (er, water). Check out these facts about our region:

Missouri has 965.47 square miles of water area. That’s like three Kansas Cities — from Smithville all the way down to Belton and nearly everything in between. (Kansas has much less — just 519.64 square miles).
The Missouri River, aka “Big Muddy,” is the longest river in North America, running 2,341 miles long from Montana to the Mississippi. Bonus: Here’s where its nickname comes from.
KC gets its drinking water from… you guessed it: the Missouri River. Don’t worry, they take the mud out first.

Next, we should talk about paddling safety, so you don’t capsize:

Always wear a PFD, or personal flotation device.
Start small. Water, especially flowing water, can be intimidating. First-timers should opt for a small lake, pond, or city canal. You don’t want to get in over your head.
Consider a guided adventure from KC Kayak and Canoe before heading out on your own.
For a fully detailed list of dos + don’ts, check out this paddling safety guide.

And finally, here are a few local options for getting your feet wet:

Lake Olathe, 191 N. Ward Cliff Dr., Olathe, KS | Check out the marina for rentable canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and pedal boats. Continue your adventure on the floating obstacle course just off the beach.
Shawnee Mission Lake, 7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS | Reserve a canoe, kayak, tandem kayak, paddle board, or pedal boat up to seven days in advance.
Longview Lake, 9898 Longview Rd., Kansas City, MO | A full-service marina includes watercraft rentals, concessions, and dock fishing.
Lake Jacomo, 7401 West Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO | Rent a craft at its marina, or get into sailing at Sail Boat Cove.
Bonus: Try out the river with KC Kayak and Canoe. There are different routes, plus a calendar of pre-planned trips.