Sepulveda Basin_Los Angeles River Kayak Tours_2026 SATURDAYS

Enjoy the leisurelyu ease of this flatwater, natural section of the river. Paddle through the best wildlife spot in all of LA!

The Supulveda Basin is a tranquil setting and the most untouched part of the river. The group makes stops along the way to educate about the environment, the history, and the controversies that have shaped our much-maligned river.

Kayaking through this iconic waterway is truly a unique experience that every Angelenos should do. Summer 2026 (our 14th season) is your chance to try this indelible, must-do adventure.

WHERE: These guided kayak tours are within the "Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve" area, which is the most natural, wonderfully green part of the river. It's a leisurely, 2.5-mile flat-water paddle, with deeper water and few obstacles (as opposed to sportier river section in the Elysian Valley). Here there are tree-lined, mud-packed riverbanks, and robust bird and fish populations. Not far from neighborhoods like: Encino, Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, Tarzana and Reseda.

WHAT: You'll be on the water in your single kayak for nearly 2 hrs., with all basic equipment provided (boat, lifejacket, paddle, helmet), as you learn all about the LA River from our experienced boating staff: the watershed, the wildlife, the history and the politics of our hometown river. You'll pick up paddling skills and learn how to be safer around rivers. Plus, you'll have fun and get some great exercise along the way.

HOW: We run this trip as an "up & back" trip. You'll park near the start (Burbank Blvd. @ Woodley Ave.), take a roughly 3-minute walk over a bridge to the river launch site, then depart and return from the same riverside location.

WHO: LA River Expeditions is the original boating outfit on the LA River and the only one leading tours in both Recreation Zones. We are the group that, in 2008, paddled the 51 miles of the river to help win environmental protections for it under the Clean Water Act. Since then, as a California nonprofit, we've put 20,000+ people on the river in kayaks. We're proud of having contributed to our community's enjoyment and learning.

WHY: We do all this because we are avid kayakers and all-around river enthusiasts. Our experienced guides are the topnotch — they've got decades of collective experience running rivers. They've received professional training in safety and paddling skills, and maintain First Aid/CPR certification. For its river conservation efforts, LA River Expeditions is the recipient of the Green Paddle Award (American Canoe Association), the River Warrior Award (Resource Renewal Institute) and the River Hero award (River Network).

! NOTE These trips are fairly leisurely and relaxed. This is essentially 'flat-water' paddling. There is often 90+ degree heat, so protecting yourself accordingly is important. These trips are okay for boaters of all skill levels; beginners are welcome. (Do not sign up for this trip, however, if you have a medical condition that could be compromised by this activity). The kayaks provided have a weight capacity of roughly 230lbs. Please be aware that there is a strict no-refund policy.

Subject to Change: Event dates, times, and venues are subject to change at the discretion of the organizer without prior notice. It is the responsibility of the ticket holder to verify any changes prior to the event.

We hope to see you out on the LA River soon!! Look further below for important FAQs.

See FAQs below to get your questions answered.