FREquently asked questions

How do I know which of the two tours is right for my kayaking skill level or interests?

If you want a calm, tranquil, nature-filled experience, do Sepulveda Basin; for a sporty, gritty experience, try Elysian Valley. For a complete experience, do both.

Is it safe? Who leads these tours?

Yes, very safe. We've been running tours since 2011, without any major incidents. All expeditions are led by experienced, certified river guides who know the river well—they'll tell you all sorts of information about the river's history, ecology, and wildlife.

How long are the tours, and where do they start/end?

Most of our expeditions run between 1.5-2 hours. Specific start and end points vary by route — check each expedition listing for details, or contact us.

What wildlife or nature can we expect to see?

More than you'd expect! The LA River corridor is home to herons, egrets, red-tailed hawks, turtles, frogs, carp, bass, catfish, and even the occasional coyote. In some stretches you'll find lush riparian vegetation that feels worlds away from the city.

How physically fit do I need to be?

A reasonable baseline fitness level is helpful, but you don't need to be an athlete. If you can walk for a couple of hours or paddle at a leisurely pace, and you have some degree of patience, you should be fine.

Do I need any prior kayaking experience? And is there an age limit

Our expeditions are designed for complete beginners and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike. We'll walk you through what you need to know before we go. Having said that, the Sepulveda Basin tours are the place to go if you've never paddled before. Regarding age, the sweet spot is between 10 and 90 years old.

What's the minimum/maximum group size?

For the Sepulveda Basin, expeditions can be as large as with as 20 participants. For Elysian Valley, 12 is the max per tour.

How do I book, and how far in advance?

You can book directly through the link on our website. We recommend booking at least a week in advance, though last-minute spots are sometimes available. Why wait and miss out?

What gear is provided?

All essential gear (kayak, paddle, life jacket, helmet). We recommend you bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and clothes you don't mind getting wet. Closed-toe shoes are a must. Basically, just show up ready to have fun.

What about water conditions?

Safety is our top priority. Water conditions on the LA River vary by season and location. Water testing is done weekly by city authorities—if it's not up to their safety standards, tours are canceled and participants must reschedule.

Are there discounts for youth, students, or larger groups?

Yes — we frequently offer discounts for youth and larger groups. Inquire with us for details.

What's your cancellation/refund policy?

Cancellations made 72 hours or more before your expedition receive a full refund. Cancellations within 72 hours may be eligible for a credit toward a future trip. We'll do our best to work with you.

Is it even legal to be on the LA River? Do you have permits?

Yes and yes. Recreational zones on the LA River are managed each summer by the MRCA (Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority), in association with the Army Corps of Engineers and the City of LA.