Paddling

Recreate on the water with canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Get exercise and fresh air while you explore the shorelines and bays where motorized boats can’t go. Along the way, keep your eyes open for a variety of animals, including swans, turtles and beavers. It’s peaceful, it’s healthy and it’s fun for the whole family. Bring your own watercraft or rent one from us.

All Paddling Programs

Upcoming paddling programs and events.

Watercraft Rentals

Watercraft rentals are available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Lessons

Looking to improve your paddling technique for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or kayaking? The Outdoor Recreation School offers lessons for your group, as well as a limited number of private lessons, for more personalized instruction.

Group Lessons

Call the Outdoor Recreation School at 763-694-7717 for scheduling and pricing. Equipment included.

Private Lessons

Whether you're new to the paddlesport, or wanting to improve your technique, our highly experienced instructors will customize the lesson to each paddler’s skills and goals. Private lessons are one-on-one lessons; semi-private lessons have a limit of two people of similar age and ability. Ages 18+. Scheduling is based on instructor availability. Email Recreation@ThreeRiversParks.org for scheduling and pricing. Equipment included.

Watch a Video about Paddling in Three Rivers

We offer a variety of adapted paddling programs for kids and adults. 

In Three Rivers, having fun doesn't have to cost a thing. From free parking to free activities to free programs and events, find your adventure!

Related Blog Posts

July 25, 2023

Learn how Three Rivers Park District takes care of precious water resources.

June 29, 2023

Did you know that one of Three Rivers' parks was formerly a summer camp? Learn more about Silverwood Park’s history.

May 02, 2023

Learn how outdoor recreation has helped nurture healing in victims of gun violence in this Q&A with Farji Shaheer, founder and director of Three Rivers’ partner organization Innovative SOULutions.

Other Things To Do

Boat Launch

Boating

two men fishing in a small motor boat.

Three Rivers offers plenty of boating opportunities with over 30 lakes, rivers and streams. With lake access points and trailer parking sites, it’s easy to get the family out on the water to enjoy the ultimate Minnesota pastime.

Campground

Camping

Camping tent and fire

Fall asleep to the sound of crickets and wake up with the sunrise. Camping is the stuff memories are made of and at Three Rivers, you’ll find all the fun of camping without the long car trip. Campgrounds are located at Baker, Carver and Cleary Lake

Dog Trails - On Leash

Dog Trails

A man walks two dogs on leashes on a paved trail.

Three Rivers offers abundant scenery for you and your dog to enjoy year round, with paved, turf, regional and skijoring/dog sledding trails that are dog-friendly. Dogs must be on a six-foot non-retractable leash unless in a designated dog off-leash area. Owners must pick-up after their dogs.

Mountain Bike Trail

Mountain Biking

A mountain biker rides on a dirt path through tall grasses.

If you’re looking for your own adventure, give mountain biking a try in Three Rivers. There are designated mountain bike trails at CarverElm Creek, Lake Rebecca and Murphy-Hanrehan parks and other paved bike/hike trails of varying terrain and difficulty for mountain bikers of any skill level.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country Skiing

Two women cross-country ski on a sunny day.

Three Rivers features 80 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails at various locations. Trails are available for skiers of all skill levels. Don't forget to check trail conditions before you head out.

New this season - cross-country ski equipment rentals are available online and are encouraged before arriving at the park.

Skijoring and Dog Sledding

Skijoring & Dog Sledding

Women on skis with dog pulling

If you have a dog with some pent-up winter energy, bring it to Three Rivers Parks for fun exercise where we have designated trails for skijoring and dog sledding.