Top Three Winter Kayak Adventures in Florida

If you love the water, but find that it's too cold (or frozen) to launch your kayak, then you're in for a treat. Florida is home to tons of no-snow winter adventures. Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports in the state and the numerous waterways, trails and rivers are a testament to its popularity. So come on down to Florida this winter and visit one-or all of these fantastic fun family kayak adventures.

Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

Probably one of the best kayak adventures in the northern part of the state, the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail is home to 170 miles of Florida wilderness and adventure. Several hubs along the river allow kayakers a wide variety of day trips and multi-day trips. From a small flowing stream at its most northern point to a wide and slow-flowing river to the south, the Suwannee River is the perfect place for kayaks enthusiasts to enjoy winter kayaking.

Several state parks along this multiple spring-fed river provide the perfect place to stop and spend the night, launch your boat or just spend the day exploring. The best part about this no-snow winter kayak adventure? There are several first class cabins sponsored by the state park that are accessible by river only. Electricity, fireplaces and hot showers make these cabins the perfect ending to an awesome day of paddling. Find out more about the trail here.

Peace River Paddling Trail

The Peace River is aptly named and offers paddlers a serene slow-moving river adventure. Scenic limestone bluffs and formations dot the river, creating shoals and gentle rapids along the way. Fossil hunters flock to this river and for just $5, you can get a fossil hunting permit and find a megladon or mammoth tooth yourself.

Numerous access points make day excursions or overnight adventures possible. Several camping spots along the way provide overnight guests a spot to sleep or visit one of the many lodging options in nearby Bartow and Wauchula. Check out the DEP website here for more information.

Wakulla River Paddling Trail

My favorite winter kayak adventure in the panhandle part of the state. The opulent Wakulla Springs lodge is a great place to stay overnight and home to one of the world's deepest springs. Take a glass bottom boat tour over the springs and eat at on the best restaurants in the area. Paddle downstream to the San Marcos de Apalachee State Park and visit a national landmark that's been here since 1679.

Manatees frequent these waters during the winter and a kayak is the best spot to view them from. Motor boats are required to idle, so don't worry about offensive wake as you view these gentle giants. View more details about this winter kayak adventure here.