4 Types of Paddle Sports You Can Enjoy in Utah
Out of all the activities that are available to enjoy in Utah, paddle sports are one of the most popular. A paddle sport is any sport in which a watercraft is moved by the action of paddling. In the state of Utah, there are numerous lakes, rivers, ponds, and bodies of water that people are able to use for recreation. In Uintah County alone there are 34 lakes and 3 rivers, which include the Green River, Duchesne River, and the White River. Several of the best areas for paddling are only minutes from downtown Vernal. There are four different types of paddle sports for anyone to enjoy, no matter what the age there is one for you. Canoeing, Paddle Boarding, Rafting and Kayaking. Always check with local regulations and rules for paddling on any body of water. Some areas will have specific regulations, permits and necessary equipment to boat on those waters.
Canoeing
Canoeing is one of the oldest of the paddle sports that is still enjoyed by people today. This sport has been used in countries all over the world for many different reasons. It involves a long slender boat that normally is able to fit one to two paddlers at a time. The paddle that is used has a single blade that makes it quite a challenge. Both the Red Fleet Reservoir and Steinaker Reservoir are great locations to go canoeing with a beautiful view. Both of these lakes are Utah State Parks with excellent campground facilities, nice beach areas, great swimming and wonderful fishing. If you are looking to camp at any designated campground in Utah I would check in advance if you can reserve your camp site. Canoeing is quick to learn, easy boats to transport, you can find them for rent or own fairly easily.
Kayaking
Similar to canoeing is the paddle sport kayaking. It was invented about 4000 years ago and was first referred to as inuits. The paddle that is used to propel this watercraft is double bladed with one on each side. The paddler sits inside the kayak with their legs inside in the front. The longer the kayak the faster that it travels. Kayaking is welcome on all the lakes in Uintah County but a favorite destination is on the Green River. The beginning of the Green River located beneath Flaming Gorge Dam is a great spot for beginners but is also enjoyable to those of a higher level as well. This section of river is rated as class 2 with fun splashy rapids. If you are a beginner the water is very cold and swift. Be prepared with the appropriate clothing and gear just in case you spill and take a swim in the frigid water. Definitely recommend taking a course or two in white water kayaking before tackling a section of river on your own.
Rafting
The classic paddle sport is rafting where each member of the crew uses a paddle to propel forward as well as steer the raft. There is white water rafting as well as river rafting. The Green River is a great place to experience both. The trips range from day trips starting at the Flaming Gorge Dam to multiple day trips on the Green River through the Gates of Lodore or the Yampa River. If you have not been on a rafting trip before and you are just looking to test the waters so to say, a one day trip is the way to go. I recommend the Flaming Gorge Green River one day trip for a great starting point. If you are looking for a little more adventure try a 4 or 5 day rafting trip through Dinosaur National Monument on the Green River or Yampa River. No matter how long you spend on the river it is an experience of a lifetime.
Standup Paddle Boarding
This paddle sport often called SUP’ing is one of the newer inventions but is growing tremendously each day. Paddle boarding stems off of surfing in the way that the board is shaped, replicating a surfboard. A long single paddle is used to steer and move forward. The sport originated in Hawaii and gradually moved towards the inland United States, including Utah. The Uintah Basin attracts many people that are interested in standup paddle boarding. The numerous lakes and the Green River have amazing views and beautiful water to practice this sport on. Paddle boards are available for rent at Red Fleet State Park which has a wonderful wakeless zone perfect for paddling and enjoying some spectacular scenery.
These four paddle sports, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and stand up paddle boarding, are all great ways to go out into the outdoors and enjoy everything that it has to offer. Paddling allows you to escape the busy world and enjoy all the beautiful nature that surrounds Utah. It is a wonderful way to spend time with family, friends or get away on a solo adventure. Get out and try not only one but all four of these paddle sports. You won’t regret it!
