The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking the Green River in Kentucky

The beautiful Green River winds through Central Kentucky for over 300 miles, offering paddlers an idyllic setting to explore by kayak or canoe. From gentle currents to Class II rapids, kayaking the Green River allows you to take in the lush forests, towering limestone cliffs, and scenic waterways of the area. This guide will provide everything you need to know to plan your own kayaking adventure on the Green River.

Overview of the Green River

The Green River originates in Lincoln County, KY and flows west for 368 miles before joining the Ohio River. It is one of the major tributaries of the Ohio River and drains over 9,000 square miles of land. There are several key features and tributaries of the Green River:

• Main Fork – Starts near Danville and flows through scenic farmland. Great for mellow floats.
• Nolin River – Joins the Green River near Mammoth Cave. Offers Class I rapids.
• Pond River – Forks off the Green River. Known for excellent smallmouth bass fishing.
• Caney Creek – Scenic tributary joining the Green River. Great for peaceful floats.
• Rochester Dam – Creates Taylorsville Lake. Marks start of lower Green River.
• Mammoth Cave National Park – National park with cave tours. Excellent kayaking opportunities.

In addition to kayaking and canoeing, the Green River is popular for fishing, swimming, camping, and cave exploring along its banks.

Best Sections for Kayaking

The Green River has many excellent sections for kayaking, suitable for beginners to advanced paddlers. Here are some of the top spots:

Mammoth Cave National Park

The upper Green River flows right through Mammoth Cave National Park. This section offers fun Class I rapids and nie scenic floats under thick tree canopy. Launch from Green River Ferry or Mammoth Cave. Permits required.

Nolin River

The Nolin River feeds into the Green River near Mammoth Cave, creating enjoyable Class I rapids and small ledges. Put in at Nolin Lake State Park. Great for intermediate paddlers.

Pittman Creek

Pittman Creek merges with the Green River north of Bowling Green. It has a quick current and offers a pleasant one-day trip for novice kayakers. Launch from Pittman Creek Recreation Area.

Smallhous Creek

Smallhous Creek meets the Green River near Cromwell. It has good access points and nice channels without major rapids. Perfect for easy paddling and wildlife viewing.

Taylorsville Lake

Below Taylorsville Dam, the Green River becomes wider and slower, perfect for beginners. Launch from Taylorsville or Green River Ramp and paddle upstream into the park.

Permits for Kayaking

To kayak on certain public waterways in Kentucky, which includes sections of the Green River, you will need to obtain a permit:

• Kentucky Recreational Use Permit – Required for boating on all state-owned access sites. Purchase online or from vendors.
• Mammoth Cave National Park Permit – Required for kayaking inside national park. Get permit at visitor center.
• State Park Permits – May be required for launching from state parks. Check with park office.

Be sure to properly display your permits according to regulations. Also confirm which sections require permits – some may be exempt.

Kayaking Safety Tips

Before heading out on the Green River, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Always wear a life jacket, even if you‘re an experienced swimmer.
• Check the river conditions and weather forecast – avoid kayaking if heavy rain or storms are expected.
• Travel with a partner or group – do not kayak alone.
• Bring a whistle, throw rope, and waterproof flashlight in case of emergency.
• Tell someone your float plan including launch and take-out locations.
• Scout unfamiliar rapids and portage around if needed.
• Avoid trees, rocks, and other obstacles that can overturn your kayak.
• Prepare for sun, heat, or cold weather with protective clothing.
• Bring plenty of drinking water and snacks to stay fueled and hydrated.

What to Bring for First-Time Kayakers

For beginners embarking on their first kayaking trip down the Green River, here are some key items to pack:

• Kayak suitable for your size and skill level
• Life jacket – U.S. Coast Guard approved
• Helmet for head protection
• Paddle – make sure it‘s the right size
• Spray skirt to seal out water
• Bilge pump to remove excess water
• Dry bags to keep gear dry
• Paddle float can act as stabilizer
• Snacks and plenty of water
• Extra layers for changing weather
• Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Map/chart of the river section
• Waterproof flashlight
• Whistle and throw rope
• Dry clothes for end of trip

Having all the right gear will help you have an enjoyable and problem-free time on your maiden kayaking voyage. Don‘t forget to leash or tie down loose items.

Taking Kayaking Lessons

While it is possible to kayak without formal instruction, taking kayaking lessons is highly recommended, especially for beginners. Professional lessons will teach you skills like:

• Safe entry and exit
• Forward paddling techniques
• Turning your kayak
• Stopping quickly
• Keeping balance
• Rolling over if capsized
• Self-rescue techniques
• Reading the water

Lessons are offered by many kayak outfitters, adventure shops, parks departments, and whitewater clubs. You‘ll gain confidence handling a kayak and be equipped to tackle Class I-II rapids on the Green River.

Fish Species in the Green River

The Green River is home to over 70 species of fish, offering diverse angling opportunities while kayaking. Some prime targets include:

• Largemouth Bass – Abundant from Nolin River to Green River Lake. Seek out weedbeds.
• Smallmouth Bass – Present river-wide. Target eddies and rock ledges.
• Spotted Bass – Found in lower sections of the river. Aggressive fighter.
• Bluegill – Common sunfish thriving in pools and slackwater. Easy catch.
• Channel Catfish – Bottom feeders hooked on shrimp and chicken livers.
• Crappie – Large populations in Green River Lake.
• Muskie – Elusive trophy fish reaching 50 inches. Cast big jerkbaits.

Check KY fishing regulations. A license is required for anglers 16 and older.

Deepest River in Kentucky

While the Green River has some deep pools, Kentucky‘s deepest river is actually the Cumberland River, reaching depths of over 130 feet.

The "Pineville Gorge" section in southeast KY includes cliffs towering over 300 feet tall. In this narrow gorge, the Cumberland River flows up to 134 feet deep, making it the deepest river in the state.

Unlike the Cumberland, the Green River is relatively shallow, averaging only 13 feet in most sections. However, some pools can reach 30-50 feet deep in spots. The sheer depth of the Cumberland can be attributed to the river cutting through an ancient plateau over millennia.

The Bottom Line

For paddlers seeking scenic wilderness, exciting rapids, excellent fishing, and the chance to explore Kentucky‘s great outdoors, the Green River is a prime destination. With several access points and varied segments, it offers suitable options for all kayaking abilities. Just be sure to acquire any required permits, and keep safety as your number one priority on the water.