Paddle downriver to the "City of Birds" heron rookery and skyline views
2.5 - 3.5 hours
Launch from Boom Island, shuttle upriver, then paddle down the Mississippi past bridges, river history, and a great blue heron rookery. Your guide shares local stories as you take in changing scenery and a distinctive skyline view.
Recommended age is 5+ for tandem kayaks, and one person must be 18+ years old. Alcohol is not allowed on the water during public tours except in rare circumstances with prior permitting. Guides appreciate tips; guests typically tip 15–20%.
Notify staff within 12 hours of trip to be offered a full refund. If cancellation is due to weather concerns, they will offer to either refund or rebook.
Dress for water in lightweight clothing and footwear you don’t mind getting wet. Bring a hat and sunglasses for glare, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and any snacks you want. Pack a dry layer in your car to change into afterward just in case.
A dry bag is available for small items you don’t want to get wet, and guides take photos with a waterproof camera so you don’t have to risk yours.
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour start time.
Anoka to Boom Island, downriver w/ shuttle
Paddle Bridge delivers consistently excellent kayaking experiences around Minneapolis, with guides like Sparky, Beaver, Maggie, and Andie earning enthusiastic praise for their knowledge and warmth. The tours take paddlers through unique experiences like navigating Mississippi Lock No. 1 and exploring the river gorge, with guides sharing fascinating historical details about the waterways and city along the way. First-timers repeatedly mention feeling safe and comfortable, even those nervous about getting on the water, thanks to attentive instruction and a welcoming approach. The operation runs professionally with quality equipment, including thoughtful touches like dry bags, water, and snacks. They're responsive with communication, especially around weather concerns, giving participants options when conditions look iffy. One guest felt disappointed by the full moon tour experience, finding it lacked depth and wishing for clearer communication about logistics upfront. But that appears to be an outlier in an otherwise stellar track record. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some paddling experience, this is a genuinely fun way to see Minneapolis from the water while learning something new.
Sparky was the best. This was such an amazing trip with beautiful scenery and Sparky had lots of history to share. Going through the lock was something to remember. 10/10 thank you for a great time!!
Catherine Goodhew
September 30, 2025
Sparky was the best. This was such an amazing trip with beautiful scenery and Sparky had lots of history to share. Going through the lock was something to remember. 10/10 thank you for a great time!!
Catherine Goodhew
September 30, 2025