Below are two lists of items we suggest you wear or have with you for a day on the Elkhorn. Many of these items are used by the Canoe Kentucky staff and recommended by the American Canoe Association. The first list is safety and comfort related. On the second list are some things that may make your trip more enjoyable depending on your plans for the day. At Canoe Kentucky, we have a large selection of most of these items for sale.

Safety and Comfort Items

• Water shoes, river sandals, or an old pair of sneakers. Some kind of footwear that won't come off your feet (not flip flops). Most accidents happen to bare feet.
• Sunscreen. Even on cloudy days.
• Water or sports drinks in plastic containers. No Glass. You will get thirsty. Canoe Kentucky has a No Alcohol policy.             
• A hat.
• If you wear glasses, an eyeglass cord or "Chums".
• Sunglasses.
• Appropriate clothing. Always dress for an unexpected flip. Synthetics dry faster than cotton and keep you warmer when wet. Bring an extra layer when it's cool.
• A high energy snack or lunch. You will get hungry. Styrofoam coolers are not recommended. They usually end up on the creek.
• A short piece of rope or cord to secure items inside your boat.
• A trash bag. We support Leave No Trace practices.

  Optional Items   

• A waterproof camera for memories of your trip.
• Fishing gear. It's a great place to fish.
• A dry bag for water sensative items.
• A change of clothes to leave in the car for the ride home.
• Insect repelent. They're not an issue until late evening.

 

►   Canoe Kentucky provides lifejackets to all of our rental customers. You may bring your own if it is U.S. Coastguard approved.

►   Remember that everything you bring has a chance of getting wet on the creek, including you! Please use a dry bag for your expensive, water sensative items or leave them at home.

►   Please leave your car keys with us before you get on the water. They don't float and we'll keep them secure for you until you need them.