Dam Kayak Tours
Join Outdoor Chattanooga for a guided and equipped Dam Kayak Tour and have the unforgettable experience of locking down through the Chickamauga Dam. Our experienced guides will lead you on a leisurely paced paddle across Chickamauga lake into the entrance of the lock where the tie off to a pin and watch the Lock Master lower the water and open the doors to exit at river level. The tour continues down the Tennessee River with a shuttle provided. Prior to departure, you’ll receive basic paddling instruction, water safety information and be properly outfitted in a lifejacket and kayak.
Cost is $35 per person which includes guides on the water and all the kayaking equipment (kayak, paddle, and PFD). This dam kayak tour is appropriate for ages 14+ when accompanied by an adult. Some prior kayaking/paddling experience is helpful but not required to participate in this tour. Guides will offer basic paddling instruction and provide on water support throughout the duration of the tour, which lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Reservations and payment are required in advance as space is limited.
What You’ll Discover
- How to adjust a kayak and lifejacket to comfortably fit you
- Beginner paddle strokes to direct your kayak in the direction you want to go.
- The inside of the Chickamauga Lock and how it functions for water crafts to pass through.
- How to navigate through the dam and launches along the TN River
FAQs
When and are the tours offered?
Fridays, June 7, 21 and 28
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, reservations are required in advance as space is limited. Online reservaiton here or call 423-643-6888 to register by phone.
Can I use my own equipment?
No, Outdoor Chattanooga provides all the equipment as this tour is intended to be guided and equipped. We cannot accommodate personal watercrafts due to limited space in our shuttle vehicle, watercrafts not fitting on the trailer and because we follow ACA requirements of guide to participant ratios when on the water.
How much does it cost?
Cost is $35 per person which includes all the kayaking equipment (kayak, paddle, and lifejacket), guides through the duration of the tour and a shuttle ride to your vehicle.
Do I have to have experience to participate?
Some prior kayaking/paddling experience is helpful but not required to participate in this tour. Guides will offer basic paddling instruction and provide on water support throughout the duration of the tour, which lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes, this tour is most appropriate for ages 14 and up when accompanied by an adult. We utilize Wilderness Tsunami Sea Touring Kayaks that have a weight limit of 300lbs and are designed as sit-in with limited space in the cockpit area.
Events
Did You Know?
The Chattanooga region holds many diverse paddling opportunities for beginners and experts to enjoy. The Tennessee River flows through the heart of downtown Chattanooga and is considered a national Blueway destination for recreational paddlers. All 45 miles from Chickamauga Dam to Nickajack Dam are navigable and accessible to paddle crafts of all types. You can enjoy a leisurely paced afternoon paddle downtown or in the gorge, or turn it into a multi-day adventure! The lakes and tributaries feeding into the river also offer a multitude of paddling options. Our website offers the most comprehensive list of public accessible launches in the Chattanooga region. Come out and paddle with us!