---
title: "Canoeing Kentucky: A Family Adventure on the Creek"
date: 2025-07-31
draft: false
tags: [family, outdoor adventure, canoeing, kentucky]
author: Eric Taylor
typora-root-url: ../../static
featuredImage: "/img/2025-07-31/feature.jpg"
---

Well, it finally happened! We’ve been talking about getting out on the water for ages, and this July we finally made it happen with a fantastic canoeing trip, courtesy of Canoe Kentucky. And honestly? It was even better than we imagined.

![PXL_20250731_202543395](/img/2025-07-31/PXL_20250731_202543395.jpg)

### Getting Started with Canoe Kentucky

We’re lucky to have a great connection with our neighbor, Lou, who drives the bus for [Canoe Kentucky](https://www.canoeky.com/) (CKY). He's always offering to take us on a tour, and this summer the stars finally aligned. The weather was perfect, we had a free day, and the river conditions were just right. So, we jumped at the chance!

We met up with Lou and his granddaughter at the [CKY base](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7323+Peaks+Mill+Rd,+Frankfort,+KY+40601/@38.2981678,-84.8125257,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88420e62df85656d:0xa61f51f6d1d0edc8!8m2!3d38.2981678!4d-84.8125257!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3_w5f2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkxNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), picked out our bright red canoes, and hopped on the bus for a short ride to our starting point. It’s a pretty slick operation, CKY handles everything. It's great knowing everything is taken care of.

![Eve and Noah paddling down the creek](/img/2025-07-31/PXL_20250731_204326663.MP.jpg)

### Down the Creek We Go

We ended up with Jaime, Noah, and myself in one canoe, and Lou, Eve, and his granddaughter in the other. The [Elkhorn creek](https://www.canoeky.com/rentals/ekhorn-creek-trips) was beautiful. We were the last group of the day and we had the place nearly all to our selves. The scenery was really peaceful. It took us about two and a half hours to complete the trip, which was a perfect amount of time for the kids.

The river level was just right, high enough to keep things interesting, but not so high that it was scary for the kids. There were some really fun, quick sections that felt like little rapids. The kids absolutely loved those! For the most part though, it was a really calm and relaxing paddle.

![Eve enjoying the ride](/img/2025-07-31/PXL_20250731_190342603.jpg)

### Wildlife Spotting and River Fun

We kept our eyes peeled for wildlife, and we weren’t disappointed! The kids were thrilled to spot many turtles basking on logs, and we even saw a couple of eagles on branches overhead. Eve was especially excited about the eagles she's been wanting to see one in the wild.

![Noah with his paddle](/img/2025-07-31/PXL_20250731_200241829.MP-1758286295263-4.jpg)

We also took a refreshing dip in the river, the water was cool and clear. There were a few little swimming holes along the way, perfect for a quick splash. Eve is a good swimmer and she's always looking for an opportunity to get in the water.

### A Perfect Family Day

Honestly, it was just a really good day. Simple, but really good. We spent quality time together, enjoyed the beautiful scenery, and made some great memories. It's those moments that you really cherish.

![20250731_145132](/img/2025-07-31/20250731_145132.jpg)

We’re already talking about going back again next year. If you're looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor activity, I highly recommend checking out Canoe Kentucky. Just tell Lou we said hello!
