Early Morning Paddle

Beat the heat with a guided, early morning paddle on the Tennessee River! Join Ijams naturalists for this 2-hour, guided paddle to uncover the secrets of the Tennessee River while searching for unique plants, animals, and geologic features along the way. Kayaks and PFDS are provided. While participants are welcome to bring their own PFD or kayak paddle, we ask that they DO NOT bring their own kayak. Please wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring water, and come prepared for changing weather conditions.

Ages: This program is designed for ages 14+. 

All participants under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult.

Accessibility: Ijams Nature Center's kayak launch and dock contain accessible elements to help those with mobility and access challenges get out on the water. The dock, launch, and approach do not, however, meet ADA requirements for a truly accessible dock. If you or someone in your party requires accessibility accommodations, please reach out to Kat Livar at klivar@ijams.org to discuss options before purchasing tickets.

Location: This program meets at the boat dock at Ijams River Landing. Vehicle/parking access to Ijams River Landing is on Island Home Avenue, 0.2 miles southeast of Ijams Nature Center's main parking lot, NOT at the address listed. 

Parking: Parking for this Ijams Education Course is free for all participants. Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the course begins to obtain a free parking pass upon check-in. If you have been issued a yearly membership or parking pass, you're all set! To learn more about Ijams membership opportunities, visit: ijams.org/donate

Materials Participants Should Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, snacks, weather appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a hands-free way to carry everything. Clothes and shoes that dry fast or are fine getting wet are preferred. Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices will be provided; however, participants are welcome to bring their own.

Refund Policy: No walk-ins will be accepted. Every participant must have a ticket. Ijams only awards full refunds for any cancellations up to 7 days before a program, or if Ijams cancels a program due to inclement weather. Refunds are not awarded for programs with fees of $5 or less for any reason. Tickets are non-transferable.