Kayaking Broken Bow Lake and Mountain Fork River: where to go and what to rent

Broken Bow has two distinct kayak experiences: flat lake paddling on Broken Bow Lake and gentle river paddling on the Mountain Fork below the dam. Both are worth doing.

RENTALS Beaver Bend Marina rents singles ($25/hr, $60/day) and doubles ($35/hr, $90/day). Walk up most days; reserve on summer Saturdays.

Broken Bow Water Adventures has the largest fleet and runs shuttle service on the river. Best for groups of 4+.

ROAR Rentals does delivery to most cabins — kayaks come to you for the morning, picked up by 5 PM. Great if you don't want to drive with boats on top.

LAKE PADDLING Best put-in for lake paddling: Beaver Bend Marina. Paddle out 20 min and you're in the calm coves north of the marina. Avoid the open main lake on windy days — the chop builds fast.

The Cedar Bluff cove (45-min paddle from the marina) is the best destination — quiet water, sandstone walls, a small beach. Pack a lunch.

RIVER PADDLING (this is the better experience) The Mountain Fork below the dam is a gentle 5-mile float from the dam to the take-out at Eagle Creek. Class I water, occasional Class II in spring after dam releases. Suitable for beginners and kids 8+.

The water is cold (50–55°F year-round) — wear quick-dry layers, even in summer.

Best stretch: the first 2 miles below the dam. Clear water, trout swimming under you, sandstone cliffs. The lower 3 miles get flatter and slower.

Shuttle is essential — it's a point-to-point trip, not a loop. The rental shops include shuttle for ~$15/person.

WHEN TO GO April–October. May and September are peak — warm enough to swim, not crowded.

WHAT TO BRING Dry bag, sunscreen, water shoes (the put-in is rocky), snacks. Phone in a waterproof pouch.

WHAT TO SKIP The main lake on summer Saturday afternoons — pontoon traffic is heavy and the wake is rough. The river during high dam releases — water moves fast, not beginner-friendly. Check the release schedule.