5 Best Rivers for Beginner SUPing

Northeast

Deerfield River, MA
The Deerfield is one of the most famous rivers in the Northeast. The Zoar Picnic Area to East Charlemont is the perfect section for beginners. The water moves, but there is not a steep gradient so the water is fairly flat.

We recommend paddling Hala Gear Carbon Straight Up on this stretch.

Southeast

James River, VA
The James River has many accessible stretches on it perfect for paddleboarding. The Eagle Rock (Route 43) to Springwood (Route 630) section is mellow with some small ledges. There are several spots to camp.

We recommend paddling Hala Fame or Carbon Hoss on this section.

Midwest

Fox River, IL
On this tributary of the Illinois River there is a very small park and Play whitewater course. The Marge Cline Park in Yorkville offers a few playspots for those who want to learn how to SUP surf.

We recommend bringing a Hala Milligram to surf some of the smaller pocket waves.

Southwest

Colorado River, Utah
The Colorado is fairly big and travels through a lot of Utah but we specifically love the Moab Daily for beginner paddlers. There are several put ins and take outs between Cisco and Moab. Find the best section for you and enjoy some magical Utah canyon scenery.

We recommend a Hala Radito for this section.

Rockies

Big Hole River
Located in the heart of Big Sky country, the Dewey to Divide Bridge section of the Big Hole River is a short fun run for beginner to intermediate paddleboarders. There are many access points so we like to consider this stretch a “choose your own adventure” run.

We recommend paddling a Hala Atcha 9'6" for this section.