Canoeing and Kayaking in New Hampshire -- Outdoor ESCAPES New Hampshire, LLC -- Paddling in NH Caneoing Sea Kayaking Canoe Kayak lessons in New Hampshire

We offer custom guided canoe and kayak tours and lessons with rentals statewide May through November.

New Hampshire's numerous scenic rivers, lakes, and estuaries provide paddlers a variety of water-based experiences for all interests and abilities. We will lead you on the best paddle trips in New Hampshire! (Hint--hover over pictures for more info)

On a guided canoe or kayak trip you will enjoy gliding through New Hampshire's history on Native American water routes, into the industrial revolution, and beyond to witness conservation efforts as seen by today's birds, fish, and moose.

Family paddling on the Androscoggin River

If you've never paddled before, or would like to try paddling a different kind of boat, just ask for a lesson. Our guides have paddled over a thousand miles and taught people young and old this enjoyable life-long sport. You can choose a lesson on a solo or tandem (two-person) canoe, touring kayak, sea kayak, or sit-on-top kayak.

Never paddled? Or don't think you need a lesson?
Bad paddling habits can lead to arguments and exhaustion. For example, when paddling with a partner in a tandem canoe or kayak, poor positioning combined with steering by "switching sides" leads to poor navigation and dangerous situations. It is not okay to paddle "on the same side!"

Take paddling lessons with Outdoor ESCAPES NH!

You will learn good habits!

On day trips...
U Get in and out of your boat (canoe or kayak) without injury.
U Position your body to move with efficiency--and look great!
U Use various paddle strokes to control direction and speed.
U Become aware of hazards and safely navigate lakes and/or rivers.
U Develop a communication system with respect for your partner/group.

On longer trips...
U Develop whitewater skills
U Manage portages
U Learn and practice basic rescue techniques
U Discover canoe/kayak camping and survival skills
U Explore the Northern Forest or Atlantic coast

Here we practice swimming down rapids
before a whitewater trip (click)

Whether you want a guided two-hour nature tour or a multi-day expedition, Outdoor ESCAPES New Hampshire will give you an unforgettable experience in New Hampshire's wilderness!

As a rule, the longer your trip, the more you get out of it. You'll increase your navigational skills, see more wildlife, and get more efficient keeping track of your gear as well as camp activities. If it's your first time canoe camping, you may want to try a 2-day trip, what we call an overnight. Private expeditions are also available.

Lucie will provide you with a suggested list of things to bring so you will be prepared for any type of weather. The most important things on that list are water shoes to protect your feet, hat & sunscreen, and a waterproof bag to keep your gear and food dry. For multi-day trips, you will also need your own sleeping bag and pad. . Some sleeping bags are available at your local sports store. Dry bags are available to rent, unless it's included in your package.

Canoeing and Kayaking in New Hampshire

You will learn good habits!

On longer trips... U Develop whitewater skills U Manage portages U Learn and practice basic rescue techniques U Discover canoe/kayak camping and survival skills U Explore the Northern Forest or Atlantic coast

Canoeing and Kayaking
in New Hampshire

On longer trips...
U Develop whitewater skills
U Manage portages
U Learn and practice basic rescue techniques
U Discover canoe/kayak camping and survival skills
U Explore the Northern Forest or Atlantic coast