Kayak the Illinois River and Earn a Round on the House

Grab a paddle and spend your day drifting down one of Northwest Arkansas’ most scenic stretches of water, then swap your life jacket for a cold drink once you’re back on dry land. This isn’t a race against the current or a workout disguised as fun. It’s a slow float built for stopping wherever the mood strikes. By the time you’re done, your only real decision left is which drink to order first.

THE DEETS

📅 Saturday, July 25, 2026
🕑 8 AM to 5 PM
📍 Meet at The Motto, 229 South Main Street, Bentonville
💲Registration: $155.00
🔗 More info

Going With the Flow

This trip covers the Upper Illinois River, a beginner-friendly stretch that starts southwest of Fayetteville and eventually joins the Arkansas River 145 miles downstream. A guide leads the way, so you won’t need any river experience to keep up. Your group puts in at Siloam Springs Kayak Park and floats at a relaxed pace, with plenty of stops at shaded banks and swimming holes along the way.

Weather this season has been anything but predictable, so your exact route is subject to change on the day of the trip. Your guides know these rivers well and will make the call on whatever path keeps things safe and fun.

Your day starts at 8 AM at The Motto, where the group departs by 8:30 for Siloam Springs Kayak Park. The Illinois River starts southwest of Fayetteville, AR, and flows for 145 miles until it dumps into the Arkansas River. It’s going to be a beginner-friendly float on the Upper Illinois River. After an afternoon on the water, you will head to Creekside Taproom for a drink.

Who’s Cleared to Paddle

37 North Expeditions keeps a few rules in place to keep everyone safe. Kids 12 and under must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult, and no one under 7 is allowed on the water at all. Solo paddling is limited to paddlers over 12. Every paddler also needs basic swimming skills, including passive floating and an aggressive stroke if things get choppy.

Pack Like a Pro

Wear a swimsuit with quick-dry layers over it, water shoes or sandals, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring a towel, water, your sack lunch, snacks, and a dry bag for anything you don’t want to get wet.

Your registration covers a guide, kayak equipment, and one drink at Creekside Taproom. Lunch and your guide’s tip are on you.

This one takes up your whole Saturday, so treat it as a real break from the usual weekend routine instead of squeezing it in between errands. A float like this is better with company, so bring a friend along and reach out to 37 North Expeditions to reserve your spot.