If you've ever wanted to paddle the Mississippi River in the heart of the Twin Cities, but you don't own a boat, there's a new program available called the Mississippi River Paddle Share. You can rent one- or two-person kayaks at either North Mississippi Regional Park or the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization. Then choose from a 3.9-mile trip from North Mississippi or a 1.7-mile trip from Mississippi Watershed Management Organization downstream to Boom Island Regional Park where the equipment may be returned. Later this summer there will be an additional kayaking option from Hidden Falls Regional Park to Harriet Island Regional Park which is a nice 6.3-mile trip.

Each kayak comes with paddles and life vests and are easily rented with a credit card and a cell phone (for email and text info). The return stations stations are partnered with Nice Ride bike share stations, which allows you to paddle one way and bike back. Check out RiverTripPlanner.org for kayak/bike options, schedules and locations.

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