Tip-A-Canoe wants you to canoe and kayak safely.
SAFETY
Here are a few safety tips for an enjoyable river trip. When you arrive at Tip-A-Canoe you will receive a thorough briefing from our expert staff and view a helpful video that will illustrate many aspects of river safety.
NEVER dive or jump into the water. The river water may be foggy making it hard to see the bottom.
We recommend that you do not paddle alone. Bring your friends.
Respect private property- Do not trespass.
Wear shoes! Avoid sandals, old sneakers are best.
Bring drinking water in non-breakable containers. Alcohol is not allowed on the river.
Leave all items not needed on the river locked in your car. Remember, everything you take on the river is at risk of getting lost or wet. We have waterproof cameras available for purchase.
Be certain to wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when on and around the water.
Tennessee State Law requires children age 12 and under to wear life jackets at all times.
Review the river map. Know where your float trip will take you, where to get out, and emergency routes in case of mishap. River maps available at no charge.
Take a litter bag with you and use it.
NEVER dive or jump into the water. The river water may be foggy making it hard to see the bottom.
We recommend that you do not paddle alone. Bring your friends.
Respect private property- Do not trespass.
Wear shoes! Avoid sandals, old sneakers are best.
Bring drinking water in non-breakable containers. Alcohol is not allowed on the river.
Leave all items not needed on the river locked in your car. Remember, everything you take on the river is at risk of getting lost or wet. We have waterproof cameras available for purchase.
Be certain to wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when on and around the water.
Tennessee State Law requires children age 12 and under to wear life jackets at all times.
Review the river map. Know where your float trip will take you, where to get out, and emergency routes in case of mishap. River maps available at no charge.
Take a litter bag with you and use it.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What Class is the Harpeth River?
A. The river is normally a Class I, suitable for beginners and children. About 20% of the time the Harpeth is a Class II, suitable for the experienced canoeist only. No beginners or children under 12 years old are allowed on the river during this Class II period. Please call us the day of your trip to check the water level. Call today to reserve.
Q. How many people are allowed in a canoe?
A. Normally, two adults and two children or three adults (550 lbs. maximum weight per canoe). Allow for the extra weight of your gear. Excess weight will cause you to drag bottom. Call today to reserve.
Q. Do we have a guide?
A. No, guides are not needed. The river does not fork, and take out points are marked by a non-movable object, such as a bridge, which is visible even on a foggy morning. Call us to reserve during your favorite time of day.
Q. What should we bring?
A. Any non-hazardous items, but remember anything you bring may get wet or lost. We strongly recommend drinking water. Be sure to wear shoes (old sneakers are best) as the river bottom is rocky and you will not want to walk barefoot in the water. Call now to reserve.
Q. Do I need reservations?
A. Yes. Reservations allow us to prepare for your arrival. Proper scheduling ensures you will not arrive at the same time as a large group and have a long wait. Our goal is to provide the most pleasurable experience for you and your friends/family. We are able to accommodate last minutes reservations if necessary. Go ahead and call now to reserve.
Q. What does my reservation guarantee?
A. Your reservation guarantees you will have the boats you reserve. It does not guarantee your exact time, because we may have to adjust for other groups that may show up late or early.
Q. How old must you be to go canoeing?
A. There are no age limits, however your child must be able to walk. If your child is not at least 30 lbs. you must bring your own life jacket (Personal Floatation Device). Please consider the depth of the river. You and all children should be able to touch bottom. Call now to reserve.
Q. What is the most important thing to know?
A. It is extremely important to know exactly where your trip will end (the "take out" point). Call now to reserve.
Q. Do you charge extra for children, pets, etc?
A. No (with paying adult). All prices are per canoe or kayak. Your dog or cat can join the fun. Your dog will love it, your cat however may not. Call us today to reserve for you and your furry friend.
Q. Do you have life jackets for children?
A. Yes, we have jackets for children weighing over 25 lbs. All children age 12 and under must wear a life jacket. You must bring your own life jacket for children under 25 lbs. Call now to reserve.
Q. Do you provide shuttle service if I have my own canoe or kayak?
A. Yes, for a small fee we can shuttle you and your craft. You can call now to reserve your haul.
Q. What forms of payment do you accept?
A. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Check, Traveler's Check, and Cash. Call us now and reserve.
Q. What is the best canoeing river in Middle Tennessee?
A. The Harpeth River, of course. Call us now to reserve your little piece of heaven.
Q. What is the best kayaking river in Middle Tennessee?
A. The Harpeth River, of course. Call us now to reserve your little piece of heaven.
Q. How is the river level measured?
A. The USGS (United States Geological Survey) has a gauge on our property. There are markings on the gauge that indicate the level of the river. It is like a yard stick. The river is electronically measured and the depth is recorded on the USGS website.
Q. How can I see the river level?
A. We have a link to the USGS site on our river info page. Go to the bottom of the page and click on the green USGS icon.
Q. Can I bring my dog? A. Yes, but we ask that you leave the area as you found it. Please remove any feces your dog excretes. We want to respect our neighbors.
