![]() NPS A Wild and Scenic Opportunity For a limited time in summer, Redwood National and State Parks presents ranger-led kayak tours of the Smith River—a crown jewel of the National Wild & Scenic River System and the largest free-flowing river system in California. Led by experienced park rangers, visitors will explore a variety of topics, including the unique geology of the Smith River watershed and how it contributes to the growth of the world’s largest trees, all while paddling pristine waters and enjoying unparalleled scenery. Smith River Kayak ToursAs summer conditions allow, Smith River Kayak Tours will begin at 12 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at the Hiouchi Visitor Center in Redwood National and State Parks. Park rangers will provide a brief orientation, including safety information and essential paddling skills. After being fitted for lifejackets and helmets, participants then shuttle to the Forks put-in and boat launch in the Smith River National Recreation Area (see important logistics requirements below). Requirements for Participation To ensure diverse participation, groups larger than four individuals cannot be accommodated. Participants must be at least 10 years old and able to swim in moving water. Each individual between ages 10-17 must be accompanied by an adult parent/guardian each and can only occupy a kayak in tandem with an adult 18 years old or older. Participants must weigh no less than 50 lbs (23 kg) and no more than 220 lbs (100 kg). Lifejackets and helmets will be provided and must be worn at all times. Personally owned paddling gear will not be allowed. Each participant (or parent/guardian) must read and sign a Visitor's Acknoledgement of Risk. Attendance at the presentation of basic safety information and essential paddling skills at the start of each tour is also required for continued participation. Don't be late! Is it really free? Yes! We do, however, gratefully accept donations to train staff, maintain equipment, and continue tours in the future. Also, be sure to note important logistics information above, including possible bus fare and day use fees. How To Sign-Up For a safe and enjoyable experience, only a limited number of participants can be accommodated on each tour. Space is available on a first come-first served basis, only; reservations by telephone, email, or fax will not be accepted. Visitors can sign-up no sooner than one week before a scheduled tour (e.g., as early as Monday for a tour scheduled the following Monday) and must do so, in person, at the Hiouchi Visitor Center (1 mile west of Hiouchi, Calif. on U.S. 199, open 9 am–5 pm daily). Programs may be cancelled at any time for safety. What To Expect Expect to have fun, of course! But also expect to get wet! Summer conditions on the Smith River may change quickly, and vary from very warm to quite chilly. Please dress accordingly; we recommend clothing that insulates when wet and dries quickly, regardless of conditions.Proper footwear should strap firmyl to your feet—don't wear flip-flops! You may fall in the river and lose cameras, cell phones, jewelry, etc. We recommend you not bring these items, or protect them in waterproof containers. Consider securing glasses with a retaining strap or string. |
Last updated: July 7, 2022