FAQ

Who Can Go Canoeing?
While some people feel confident in taking small children canoeing, we are careful about recommending taking very small children on the river. Much depends on your experience in canoeing. Another factor is the time of year and the temperature of both the air and the water. We usually leave this decision to you, however we reserve our option to make any final decision regarding who we put on the river at any given time.

Who Can Go Kayaking?
Kayaking is a great option for anyone, regardless of paddling experience. Our kayaks are not the type that you commonly see on television, rolling over and coming up the other side. Our kayaks are very stable and should a person tip, they simply fall out. Everybody that kayaks wears a life jacket. Kayaking is easy to learn, and most people really enjoy the feeling of being in total control.

Who Can Go Tubing?
Tubing is ideal for the whole family and group outings. Enjoy a cool ride on a hot summer day while you float, kick and splash along the Rouge River. New for 2008 The Cadillac of All Tubes ... 52” Tube with back rest, cup holder and a mesh seat. Like taking, your favorite lounge chair down the river.

How Do I Make Reservations?
The fastest way to secure a reservation is to call (616) 866-9264 and make a reservation with a major credit card. Or, call us and we will send you information and a reservation form, which can be filled out and returned with a check or money order. Group leaders should always get the payment up front from the individuals planning to go on the trip. Reservations are confirmed in writing time permitting.

When’s The Best Time to Make Reservations?
As soon as you know the date and approximate number of people in your group, call us and we will place you on the schedule and give you a few days to get the money collected. The Rouge River is a popular canoeing river located only 20 minutes north of Grand Rapids. In most cases you can pay for your float trip in what you save in gas money to go else where. Summer Saturdays often fill in advance of your trip date. The sooner you call, the better chance for reserving your date.

Office Hours
From May 1, through October 15, office hours are from 10.00 AM to 5:00 PM. After hours calls are recorded and promptly responded to the next day. We can be faxed at 1-616-257-0265.

What Time Do Trips Start?
Reservations are required even if you call the same day of your outing. Paddling times are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday Weekdays 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

What Should I Wear?
Always bring an extra change of clothes for after the trip. Paddling is done in all kinds of weather so plan accordingly. We always recommend wearing river shoes, sandals or an old pair of sneakers. When taking additional clothing on the trip, we recommend a secure dry bag that can be tied into the craft.

Can I Bring My Dog?
We do not recommend taking your dog on the river, however it is allowed.

Do You Have an Alcohol Limit?
AAA Canoe Rental discourages the consumption of alcohol while paddling. However, we do allow up to 4 cans per person, per trip. It is unlawful to operate a watercraft while intoxicated.

How Can I Save Money?
The # 1 way is our preseason special, call and make advanced reservations before May 1st. We also offer group rate discounts all during the season.

Can I Fish While Canoeing?
Most people don’t try this for a number of reasons, from the few people that have, the success has been almost nothing.

Can I Bring a Tube?
Tubes are not allowed to be taken on the canoe or kayak trips. Tubes move too slow and are not allowed to be tied to other watercraft. We do however offer tube trips.

Should We Bring Our Own Life Jackets?
Some people like to bring their own life jackets, especially for young children. However, AAA Canoe Rental includes your choice of life jackets or cushions. Everyone must have a cushion or a jacket. Children six and under must wear a life jacket at all times while on the river. We recommend jackets for all children.

Do You Haul Private Canoes and kayaks?
Yes, we will haul your canoe or kayak, no private tubes. However, we assume no liability and we do charge a fee of $15.00 per craft.

What other canoeing resources do you have?
Check out About the Rogue River and Local Camping Information.