Nashville isn’t just about country music and honky-tonks. The city’s waterways offer some surprisingly fun and scenic kayak and canoe experiences that showcase its natural beauty and vibrant skyline. Whether you want a beginner-friendly paddle along calm rivers or a wildlife-packed adventure on a scenic lake, Nashville has options. We particularly like the Skyline Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville with Shuttle for its ease and stunning city views, and the Small Group Clear Kayak Tour of Old Hickory Lake for those eager to see bald eagles and herons in a peaceful setting. These tours highlight the diversity of Nashville’s paddling scene, providing both urban excitement and tranquil nature.
If you’re considering which experience fits your style, this guide breaks down the top five kayak and canoe tours. From budget-friendly, shorter trips to more immersive, wildlife-rich adventures, you’ll find something that matches your skill level and interests.
Quick Overview
Our list features a range of kayak and canoe experiences in Nashville, including easy downtown rentals with shuttles that offer a quick skyline fix, and more specialized tours like the Small Group Clear Kayak Tour of Old Hickory Lake which combines wildlife viewing with scenic vistas. Prices range from $45 to $360, with durations from one to over two hours, and each offers unique views and activities. For a relaxed paddle with cityscape views, check out the Skyline Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville with Shuttle. For wildlife lovers, the Small Group Clear Kayak Tour of Old Hickory Lake is unbeatable.
Below, we explore each of these experiences in detail, helping you choose the best fit for your Nashville adventure.
1. Skyline Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville with Shuttle
This easygoing kayak trip is perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting a quick escape with city views. For around $59 per person, you get roughly two hours paddling along the Cumberland River, with all equipment included. The best part? The shuttle takes care of transportation, so no need to worry about logistics—just show up, paddle, and enjoy.
What makes this tour special is the combination of convenience and scenery. You start at a designated launch point with gear provided, and then glide past Nashville’s skyline, capturing photos of the city’s iconic buildings from the water. Turtles, blue herons, and other local wildlife often make appearances, adding to the charm. The safety gear and staff guidance ensure a relaxed experience, even for beginners. Reviewers mention the trip as “beautiful, relaxing, and suitable for novices,” with many appreciating the chance to see Nashville from a different perspective.
Bottom line: If you want a straightforward, scenic paddle with minimal fuss, this tour hits the mark.
2. Nashville: Downtown Kayak Rental with Shuttle
For a shorter but memorable experience, this downtown kayak rental offers an hour of paddling with an included shuttle to your launch point. At just $45 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Nashville’s skyline from the Cumberland River. The trip is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a quick and accessible activity.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on urban views just beyond Broadway. You can paddle past bridges, historic buildings, and along waterfront parks, capturing photos that you simply can’t get from land. This tour is perfect for visitors seeking a relaxing break between other Nashville activities, or for a quick outdoor workout with a city backdrop. The reviews praise the ease of access and stunning photo opportunities, noting that it’s suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want to experience Nashville’s water and skyline firsthand, this rental offers a quick, enjoyable outing.
3. Small Group Clear Kayak Tour of Old Hickory Lake
A step up in complexity and scenic beauty, this small-group tour on Old Hickory Lake combines wildlife observation with stunning vistas. At $69 per person, the 2.5-hour tour includes a guide who shares insights about local wildlife and the environment. The highlight? The clear kayaks provide a unique perspective to see through to the water, revealing schools of fish and water plants beneath you.
This tour stands out for its wildlife sightings—bald eagles, herons, ospreys, and turtles are regularly seen. The guide’s knowledge about the area’s natural features makes it especially engaging, and the scenery—tree-lined shores, rocky cliffs, and sunset views—makes it a memorable experience. Reviewers describe it as “delightful,” praising the friendly guide and the opportunity to see eagles up close. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with paddling but doesn’t require expert skills.
Bottom line: Wildlife enthusiasts and those eager to enjoy scenic, peaceful water should consider this tour for a memorable day on Old Hickory Lake.
4. Nashville: Kayak Tour with Skyline Views
This self-guided 2-hour tour is perfect for independent paddlers who want to explore Nashville at their own pace. For $55 per person, you get a kayak rental and a shuttle to the launch site, allowing you to paddle three miles down the Cumberland River. Along the way, you’ll see blue herons, turtles, and kingfishers, all against the backdrop of the Nashville skyline.
What makes this tour outstanding is the flexibility it offers. You can control your pace, take photos, and explore the river as you wish. After your paddle, a shuttle will bring you back to Shelby Park. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with paddling but wanting an active, self-directed experience. Many reviews mention the beautiful views of bridges and skyline, making it a great way to combine nature and cityscape.
Bottom line: For those who enjoy independence and scenic views, this tour offers a relaxed, customizable water adventure.
5. Downtown Nashville 4 Person Pedal Drive Kayak Rental
This is a unique take on the kayak experience—pedal drive kayaks for up to four people, available in 2024 as the only Hobie Fiesta 4-person rental in the U.S. It’s priced at $360 for a two-hour rental, making it a good choice for families, double dates, or groups of friends. The pedal system allows for easy movement, especially for those who’d rather skip paddling or have limited experience.
What makes this rental appealing is the stunning skyline views and the fact that it accommodates four people comfortably, making it ideal for social outings. The high-quality Hobie boats ensure a smooth ride, and the group format encourages fun and bonding. Since there are no reviews yet, consider this option if you prioritize group experience and convenience. Be aware that it’s pricier than other tours, but the capacity and ease of use might compensate for that.
Bottom line: If you’re traveling with a small group or family and want to enjoy Nashville’s waters together in style, this pedal kayak rental offers a fun, social alternative.
$360.00 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose
When selecting a kayak or canoe experience in Nashville, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re new to paddling or want a quick city view, the Skyline Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville with Shuttle offers a convenient and scenic option. For wildlife lovers, the Small Group Clear Kayak Tour of Old Hickory Lake combines serenity with the chance to see eagles and herons. Those seeking independence might prefer the Nashville: Kayak Tour with Skyline Views, which lets you explore at your own pace. And if you’re traveling with a group and want a social experience, the pedal drive kayak rental is a fun, different way to enjoy the water.
Think about your fitness level and how much time you want to spend. Budget-wise, short rentals start at around $45, while full-group pedal options cost more but offer extra capacity. Booking early, especially in peak seasons, is advisable for popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Nashville’s waterways offer a variety of kayaking and canoeing options that suit every taste and skill level. For a relaxed cityscape paddle, the Skyline Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville is hard to beat. Wildlife and scenic lovers will appreciate the Old Hickory Lake tour, while the independent paddler might prefer the self-guided Skyline Tour. Families or groups of friends looking to paddle together will enjoy the pedal kayak rental for its capacity and ease.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will ensure you get the best times and gear. So, pick your favorite, prepare to get wet, and enjoy Nashville from a whole new perspective.