Over 15,000 people annually use the services of Kayak Pittsburgh, a social enterprise of western Pennsylvania’s Venture Outdoors, to explore and enjoy Pittsburgh by water. Kayak rentals first became available in the Steel City in 2004 and continue to help transform perceptions of what Pittsburgh is becoming and what the city’s three rivers mean for the quality of life to people in the metro area. Kayak rentals are available seven days a week and beginner programs are held every Monday. The yellow kayaks have become a common sight on the rivers in front of downtown Pittsburgh’s gorgeous skyline. And in a sports-crazy town, it doesn’t hurt that the boats mirror the black and gold color scheme of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates!
Kayak Pittsburgh’s kayaks are flat-water kayaks which are longer and more stable than a traditional whitewater kayak. Both solo and tandem (2-person) kayaks are available. No experience is necessary and most folks learn how to manage a kayak in 10 to 15 minutes — Kayak Pittsburgh will teach you how and make sure you’re comfortable before setting you loose on Pittsburgh’s three rivers. PADDLE UNDER A FULL MOON WITH KAYAK PITTSBURGH: Some might argue which location offers the best view of Pittsburgh. How about Team Waterfront. And the most unique way to view the skyline is definitely from a kayak—at night. As long as you’re not afraid of nocturnal river creatures (kidding, of course), a full-moon paddle with the Venture Outdoors crew is the best guided tour of the city. Starting at Kayak Pittsburgh downtown, paddlers depart from the north end of the Roberto Clemente Bridge when the full moon is high. Heading upstream toward Washington’s Landing at dusk, the round-trip adventure is a two-hour showcase of the city’s buildings and bridges. Sixth Street Bridge, downtown. Info: 412-969-9090 kayakpittsburgh.org
