The Russian River

With the Russian River gently snaking through the vineyards and forests towards the sea, it’s not surprising that canoeing and kayaking are popular summer activities here. The river flow is relatively smooth this far downstream, even in the winter when the water is higher and faster, so don’t expect any adrenaline-pumping rapids. Do expect to have to slather on the sunscreen on a hot summer day, however, and not to care if you tip over and take an unexpected dip in the river.

The least strenuous way to experience the river’s meandering pace is to rent a canoe at Burkes Canoe Trips (8600 River Rd., Forestville, 707/887-1222, www.burkescanoetrips.com, May–Oct., $50 a day). Paddle or simply float 10 miles downriver, stopping at the many secluded beaches along the way, to Guerneville, where courtesy shuttles run back to base every half hour all day long.

For a slightly more strenuous option involving real “sit on top” touring kayaks rather than the glorified aluminum cans that most places rent go to Russian River Outfitters, farther downstream in the old logging town of Duncans Mills, about five miles west of Guerneville (behind the old railway depot building on Moscow Rd., 707/865-9080). From here it is six miles to the ocean at Jenner, where a shuttle can pick you up by prior arrangement, or simply paddle upstream to the beach at Monte Rio and back.

Single kayaks cost from $45 for a half day and doubles from $65. This less-populated section of the river downstream from Guerneville is where you’re less likely to see garbage and old tires, and more likely to see some of the river’s wildlife, including otters, herons, and an occasional turtle sunning itself.

Kayaks and canoes can also be rented for one day or more from Kings Sport & Tackle in Guerneville (16258 Main St., 707/869-2156, open daily). Single kayaks cost $30 a day, doubles are $45, and aluminum canoes cost $50. From Guerneville’s Johnson’s Beach it’s four miles to Monte Rio downstream or eight miles to Forestville upstream. Make it a round-trip or pay $15 for the store to send a shuttle for pickup or dropoff (9 a.m.–2 p.m. only).

Fishing for the river’s bass, bluegill, catfish, and winter salmon is also popular from a rented canoe or one of the many beaches, though a California fishing license is required. Two-day and longer licenses can be bought at Kings Sport & Tackle in Guerneville (which also rents fishing equipment) and most other tackle shops in the area. Also ask about the myriad rules and regulations. Barbed hooks can not be used, for example, and only artificial lures (no bait) are allowed during the summer.