How to enjoy the White River even as a newbie
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I'm living proof that you don't need years of experience — or even any tangible skill — to have a thrilling White River adventure.
Why it matters: As this summer continues to deliver high temperatures, a day on the water is a fun and accessible way for Indy residents to beat the heat while experiencing a moment of serenity.
The big picture: Getting outdoors is big business in the Hoosier state. With $15.7 billion generated by adventure seekers in 2023, Indiana ranked first in the Midwest and 12th in the U.S. for total value added from outdoor recreation activities.
- The industry also accounted for 3.2% of the state's total employment with more than 105,000 jobs.
Driving the news: Earlier this month, I joined dozens of other novice kayakers on an outing organized by the Indianapolis chapter of Outdoor Afro, a national nonprofit committed to connecting Black communities with nature year-round.
- Founded in 2009 in Oakland, California, Outdoor Afro is in more than 60 cities across the U.S. and aids in the seemingly impossible task of helping grown folks make new friends.
- The group is also spending its summer combating disproportionately high drowning rates in the Black community by providing scholarships for swimming lessons.
Zoom in: We launched from Rusty Oar in Noblesville around 9am with kayaks and life vests provided by the White River Canoe Company, one of multiple outfitters that lead excursions in the Indianapolis metro.
- Our trip was a 6-mile, beginner-friendly route that takes between two and three hours to complete.
- The biggest obstacles were low hanging trees, large rocks and beer-chugging tubers that stretched across the river near Potter's Bridge.
- Single kayak rentals cost $30, and tandem kayaks cost $60.
Context: I haven't put an oar in the water since band camp. So any kayaking or canoeing know-how I developed back then is as long forgotten as my high school hairline.
Yes, but: White River Canoe Company staff and Outdoor Afro's volunteer group leaders provided tips that had us paddling like pros in no time.
- Their biggest advice? Stick to single kayaks as two rookies in a tandem have a much higher chance of tipping over.
- Plus: Small movements can create big trajectory changes. So take it slow.
Threat level: According to the Indiana Department of Health, more than 300 injuries due to drowning or submersion were recorded statewide in 2023, including 80 deaths.
- Among those 15 and older, the highest proportion of drownings (41%) from 2019-2023 occurred in natural bodies of water.
Here are a few tips from Indiana Conservation Officers to ensure your next adventure on the water is a safe one.
🗺️ Plan ahead: Learn the route and know where public access points are before hitting the water.
🚣 Check the forecast and water levels: Avoid paddling in extreme conditions, and never paddle on flooded streams.
👫 Take a buddy or two: Having backup is crucial should you capsize.
🧒 Keep a close eye on kids: Our trip and many others promote all-ages fun, but encourage young paddlers to learn the safety rules and stick with the group.
🛟 Pack the right gear: Along with a life vest, first aid kits, a fully charged cell phone, sunblock and energy-boosting snacks are encouraged.