This week, the Los Angeles River welcomed the first groups of kayakers of the season. Led by organizations such as the LA Conservation Corps and their Paddle the River Program, kayakers can join groups paddling down two stretches of the 51-mile river, including the Sepulveda Basin, an area north of the Sepulveda Dam where the riverbanks are not lined with the concrete so familiar to the lower part of the river, and Elysian Valley.
Most trips last around 1.5-2 hours and include all equipment. Prices range from $50-60, with free and discounted trips available for certain area residents and school groups.
The Los Angeles River Recreation Zone provides yearly access to the public during the summer months to designated areas on the river for walking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority in cooperation with the City and County of Los Angeles and the Army Corps of Engineers is managing the Los Angeles River Recreation Program for the second year to increase safe public access to the L.A. River and to further river revitalization. The public is allowed to access and enjoy the river in designated areas to walk, fish, and use non motorized and steerable boats such as kayaks.
Families and community groups can take this opportunity to explore a little-known side of Los Angeles and get away from the bustle of the city while enjoying the path carved by the river and seeing diverse wildlife such as ducks, egrets, herons, killdeer, stilts, dragonflies, damselflies, fish, and coyote.
Other groups providing guided kayak trips and rentals include LA River Kayak Safari and LA River Expeditions. You can find out more information about recreational opportunities and other river revitalizations efforts at the LA River website.
