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River Trips
The Hocking River is the most scenic, pristine, and beautiful river in Ohio. Admittingly we are bias, but the Hocking remains undeveloped and full of natural wildlife. Odds are you will probably see turtles, beavers, cranes, ducks, or even deer during your time on the Hocking. Next is we have the greatest variety of trips in the Hocking Hills, choose a trip between two hours and two days! Furthermore, Trip 2 is located directly across from the Natural Rockbridge. Since our drop of is adjacent to the hidden Natural Rockbridge, you will get a chance to visit the wonderful Natural Rockbridge. Third is we are the first and original canoe livery in the Hocking Hills region established in 1976. We were among the first to open up the Hocking River and make it accessible for canoeing. We take great aims to keep the Hocking clean and beautiful with our conservation efforts and our sponsorship of the Annual Hocking River Cleanup. With that said, we have over 30 years of experience in providing superior customer service on the Hocking River. Over the years, we have taken great pride in establishing relationships with our customers. Finally, since we offer canoeing, kayaking, rafting, miniature golf, go-karts, camping, and shelter house facilities we are in unique position to customize any type of package for you and your group. We are a family oriented business and are proud to offer are one of most friendly, experienced and customer service oriented staffs in the area. We look forward to seeing you on the river this year.
What is the mission statement of HVCL?
To create safe and memorable outdoor experiences through fun and friendly service.
Do you provide shuttle service for personal boats?
The fee is half price of any canoe or kayak trip. The service includes transportation, use of all our facilities (restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, etc.) and the same service from our staff as it you rented one of our boats
How do I get a canoe with backrests?
Since these boats define summer they tend to be the first rented. It is no problem if you come on a weekday; these boats will be available. If you come on a Saturday or Sunday the best advice is to COME EARLY! They usually are rented out by 12:00 Noon. The earlier your departure time the better chance of getting your desired boat. On Saturdays and Sundays they are usually sold out by Noon. It is worth it to wake up early because these boats are AWESOME!
How many people can fit in a canoe?
Our rates include two adults and two children (10 and under) in a canoe. A third adult can be added for an additional fee.
Relax! No hidden fees. No charge for children under 10, No extra charge for Old Town Canoes with backrests or seat coushins. No charge for pets. The flat rate price includes everything (and more) that you will need.
Can I stop anywhere along the Hocking?
Please stay within the banks of the Hocking River. Outside the banks is private property. Please be considerate of the residents along the Hocking River.
Save money with bringing a group. All you need is 10 people to get a discount. We ask that a 50% deposit is made one week in advance.
This question is dependent on you and your groups' experience and time constraints. You never want to takea trip longer than you are capable. We recommend inexperienced paddlers and group with young children take our Trip I-Crocketts Run to Livery.
Do you have any used boats for sale?
Currently Old Town Discovery Canoe for sale. Discovery canoes retail around 900 dollars. We have several for sale between $350 and $450. After September 25th 2011, all used kayaks will go on sale.
Pay extra for a pet? Not with us. Pets are not only allowed at Hocking Valley Canoe Livery but recommended! There is arguably no better place to spend time with man's best friend than on the river! The Hocking has a perfect depth (3-4 feet average) for dogs to swim and play. Remember to bring the dog toys.
Canoeing and kayaking is an outdoor adventure available to all ages and skill levels. Under normal water conditions. our only requirement is that children under six be in a boat with an adult.
Alcohol is allowed in moderation only. Alcohol often leads to carelessness and littering. For your safety alcohol is prohibited when water levels are high. Check out river conditions for more information. Styrofoam coolers are not permitted because they easily break and cause debris and litter. Plastic coolers are available for rent in the office.
When do boats have to be back?
All equipment needs to be in by the designated time. In June, July and August all equipment must be back by 7:30. In Spring and Fall times will vary. A $10 late fee will be processed for each half hour beyond the designated time.
There are no McDonalds or hotdog stops on the river. The banks of the Hocking are undeveloped much like they were one hundred years ago. Needless to say we like it that way and hope you do too. Bathroom and shower facilities are available at the canoe livery. Please plan accordingly.
Trips are not guided, unless otherwise mentioned. We will deWe will debrief you and your group with all the information you need to have a safe trip. All trip times are approximate. Do not take a trip longer than you or your group is capable.
Reservations are recommended but not required. Weekends tend to book up one to two weeks in advance. Reservations and deposit are required for group rates. The easiest way to make a reservations is online. If Reservations are taken over the phone.
Full refund minus a $10 processing fee will be given if contacted 48 hours in advance of arrival. No refund for cancellations within 48 hours of arrival. However a rain check will be issued
Ohio law requires children under 10 and non swimmers to wear their life jackets. We require everyone to have a life jacket in their boat with them. In case of high water everyone is required to wear a life jacket.
All trips depart and conclude at the canoe livery. During summer (June, July, & August) weekend trips depart on the hour with the last trip, Rocket's Run, concluding at 5pm. On the weekdays trip times are 10:00, 12:00 2:30 and 5:00. During Spring and Fall (April, May, September, and October, trips depart at designated times. Call or email for more information, All canoes must be back by 7:30pm to avoid late fees.
Coming from Columbus take 33 east to 33A or 180 exit. Make a left on the exit and go about 4 miles. We are on both sides of the road. Coming from Athens take 33 west to 33A or 180 exit. Make a right on the exit and go about 4 miles. Click here for more detailed directions.
Is there more than one Canoe Livery?
Hocking Valley Canoe Livery has been open for since 1976. Another canoe livery choose a similar name, which causes confusion with our customers When making a reservation, ask that you are reserving with the ORGINIAL!
