Canoe Down The Russian River

The 110-mile Russian River runs through Mendocino and Sonoma counties into the Pacific Ocean. Under looming Redwood trees, between Forestville and Guerneville, the waterway is a popular recreational spot for  floating, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing.

Owned by the same family since the 1940s, Burke’s Canoe Trips is a longtime favorite outfitter for those looking to spend a lazy day on the water. The 2-person (4-person if you have children under 12) vessels ($75 for the day) come with life jackets and a cooler. The 10-mile ride down to Johnson’s Beach can be as active or as chill as you choose with spots to pull off to picnic at Steelhead Beach, Mom’s Beach or Sunset Beach. A rope swing can usually be found at some point along the path. The 3+ hour drift gives canoeists a chance to see flora and wildlife.

Johnson’s Beach is your final destination. The 100-year-old spot is a fun place to spend the rest of the afternoon as it has umbrella rentals and a snack shop. Burke’s provides a complimentary return shuttle service every half hour until 6pm.

Things to bring:

• Food & Drinks
• Sunscreen
• Beach Towel
• Hat
• Waterproof bag for your phone
• Music