For all of its flat Midwestern character, Indiana actually offers a surprisingly diverse range of outdoor activities. Indiana’s outdoor destinations stem from more obvious choices, like the well-named Hoosier National Forest and its myriad trails and campgrounds, to destinations you wouldn’t necessarily think to find in Indiana, like the remarkably serene shoreline and Midwest charms of Miller Beach. Inherent in that latter option is Indiana’s underrated strength as a destination for recreation on the water. The state does, after all, border Lake Michigan. At the same time, its flat Midwestern landscape is etched with countless rivers, lakes, and waterways that offer terrific kayaking adventures. Whether you’re looking to explore a Great Lake, a major urban river, or a remote woodland creek, Indiana has many of the top kayaking destinations in the Midwest.
Away from the shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana has several designated water trails throughout its many waterways. Even Indiana’s cities offer exemplary kayaking opportunities, as many of the state’s urban areas sit alongside one (or more) of the state’s rivers. And if you want to try your hand at Great Lake kayaking, Indiana has several excellent spots to paddle out into the challenging waters of Lake Michigan, including both local beaches where you can dip your toes into the Great Lakes and sections of epic, multi-state paddling routes around the lake’s vast shoreline. Though different kayaking routes will appeal to different types of kayakers, these five kayaking destinations offer the most comprehensive blend of Indiana’s waterways, both urban and natural, according to reports from online reviewers and experienced kayakers.
Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area
Northeastern Indiana’s Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area is one of the state’s hidden outdoor gems. Though primarily known for its hunting and fishing opportunities, the Pigeon River does provide some stellar, peaceful kayaking routes. The Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area covers nearly 12,000 acres. Pigeon River itself packs a fairly large punch in terms of scenery, despite its small size. Though the main navigable portion of the river is only 36 miles long, no more than half a mile wide, and fairly shallow, Pigeon River flows through a scenic glacial moraine for much of its course, providing abundant woodland scenery and several wonderful lakes near the charming Indiana community of Mongo.
Kayakers can take advantage of the park’s 17 miles of free-flowing river for a relaxing day of unobstructed paddling in a peaceful nature preserve. This stretch of the Pigeon River is perfect for kayakers of all ages and experience levels, given its generally calm waters combined with enough curves and bends to keep the multi-hour trip interesting. More importantly, the Pigeon River Fish & Wildlife Area’s kayaking route is bursting with gorgeous natural scenery. The Pigeon River’s banks are rich in picturesque trees (including the particularly eye-catching tamarack, or eastern larch) and an understory of ferns that add a unique prehistoric touch…