Kayak the Mighty Provo River

Last Saturday, Mountain Dad and I attempted to introduce our tots to the wonderful world of white water. Mountain Dad was a river guide during his college days and since then we have acquired several inflatable kayaks in order to explore rivers in our area.

Now, the section of the Provo River from Deer Creek Dam to Vivian Park is considered more scenic than adventurous. The majority of the time you cruise through a beautiful mountain valley in water less than three feet deep.

At times the rocks and brush along the banks could prove difficult, and the river does go under one bridge at a point, but overall it’s extremely mild and a great way to spend a summer day.

My original plan was to have little g ride with Mountain Dad, because he is the more experienced river runner. However, she disagreed with me and refused to let go of my life jacket. Thus, we became kayak partners inste

Most of the trip she clung to my life vest, trying to give me kisses. It was adorable, but made it hard to maneuver since I had both hands on my paddle and kept trying to dodge her head so I could see where I was going.
Big E did better in the back of Mountain Dad’s kayak, even spraying our boat with his squirt gun when we got close. The best part of the trip was watching the Heber Creeper Train chug along the track. I never realized quite how loud that train can toot.

It was a fun trip that we enjoyed with Mountain Dad’s brother, his wife and their daughter. Everyone had fun, but next time I’ll wait until little g is a little older.

RIVER INFO
Length: 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on water flow.
Difficulty: Easy, otherwise I wouldn’t have taken my tots.
Tips: Always wear life jackets and don’t let go of your paddle.