A New Orleans swamp with lots of trees and green vegetation in the water.

New Orleans Swamp Kayak Tour Review – Everything You Need to Know Before You Book a Swamp Tour!

I knew I wanted to book a swamp kayaking tour in New Orleans. When I started researching companies, I quickly discovered that many of the swamp tour operators bait wildlife for tourists. That isn't the kind of our operator I want to support. I went down a research rabbit hole to find an ethical swamp tour operator โ€“ one that doesn't hold out marshmallows on sticks to draw alligators, or let tourists handle baby gators for selfies. I wanted to share my full review to help you plan your NOLA trip without having to do all the research! So keep reading for my full New Orleans swamp kayak tour review including what I wished I'd done differently.
person riding on boat on river during daytime

The 10 Best Places to Kayak in New York State

Growing up in Boston, I spent my childhood enjoying beaches in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. It wasn't until I moved to New York that I became a kayaker. Living by the Hudson River, kayaking was the easiest way to get out and enjoy the water. Since I took up kayaking seven years ago, I've been able to explore many of the lakes and rivers across the very large, very rural state that I now call home. That's right, most parts of New York are nothing like NYC โ€“ and I am passionate about helping people escape the city and experience the rest of New York. So keep reading for the best places to Kayak in New York state, from an unforgettable urban adventure to multi-day trips along the New York-Canada border.
Canoes lined up alongside each other, seen from above.

Raft Up! 7 Amazing LGBTQ Kayak and Canoe Groups

As an avid kayaker, few things are more satisfying than being out on the water, surrounded by nature. Blue herons soaring overhead, turtles sunning themselves on logs, and the occasional glimpse of a fish in the waters around me never fail to fill me with wonder. Not to mention, kayaking is an amazing way to unwind and relax. Out on the water, all the stressors of my daily life feel far away. Lately, I've been thinking about how much fun it would be to paddle with other queer people โ€“ to share one of my favorite hobbies with people who share an identity. I did some research and discovered there are some amazing LGBTQ kayaking groups out there. If you're in the same boat (pun intended) and looking for a welcoming community of fellow paddlers, check out these 7 incredible groups leading queer kayak and canoe trips!
My Ultimate Kayaking Gear Checklist for The Perfect Paddle

My Ultimate Kayaking Gear Checklist for The Perfect Paddle

When I first dipped my paddle into the world of kayaking seven years ago, I often found myself on the water wishing I had brought this or that crucial item. Through countless adventures, from serene day trips to challenging 12-mile paddles in the Finger Lakes, I learned โ€“ sometimes the hard way โ€“ exactly what kayaking gear was essential for a safe and enjoyable paddle. That's why I've created this comprehensive checklist of everything I take kayaking with me.