Day Trips
General Day Trip Information
To ensure that we have boats available, it’s always best to have reservations, especially on weekends and holidays.
Upon arrival at OARS, check into the office and complete any necessary paperwork. A staff member will go over any questions you have. We will discuss points of interest, popular islands, and the take out locations. Next, you’ll proceed to the on-site launch area to get fitted for life jackets. Our staff will assist you into your boat, and away you’ll go!
During the weekends and holidays, we offer a completely hassle-free experience, where you decide what time you’d like to leave, and what time you want to head home. All prices are included below.
Please remember, at times we are extremely busy and we do our best to get everyone back to OARS in a timely manner!
Included in all Day Trips
Rates include PA sales tax, canoe and/or kayak rental, paddles, and life vests.
Daily Rates
You can also rent and haul our boats on your own, if you’d like. The cost is $30 per 8-hour day, depending upon availability. Please call ahead.
French Creek Trips
Utica to Franklin (11 miles)
Canoe or Tandem: $45 | Kayak: $40
Bring Your Own Boat: $25
Carlton to Franklin (15.5 miles)
Canoe or Tandem: $55 | Kayak: $50
Bring Your Own Boat: $35
Cochranton to Franklin (19.5 miles)
1 day (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $60 | Kayak: $55
Bring Your Own Boat: $35
2 days, 1 night (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $70 | Kayak: $65
Bring Your Own Boat: $35
Shaw’s Landing to Franklin (25 miles)
2 days, 1 night (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $70 | Kayak: $65
Bring Your Own Boat: $40
Meadville to Franklin (28 miles)
2 days, 1 night (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $80 | Kayak: $75
Bring Your Own Boat: $45
Allegheny River Trips
Oil City to Franklin (7.5 miles)
Canoe or Tandem: $45 | Kayak: $40
Bring Your Own Boat: $30
Franklin to Fisherman’s Cove (9 miles)
Canoe or Tandem: $50 | Kayak: $45
Bring Your Own Boat: $25
Franklin to Kennerdell (16 miles)
1 day (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $65 | Kayak: $60
Bring Your Own Boat: $35
2 days, 1 night (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $75 | Kayak: $70
Bring Your Own Boat: $35
Franklin to Emlenton (34.5 miles)
2 days, 1 night (2 boat minimum)
Canoe or Tandem: $95 | Kayak: $90
Bring Your Own Boat: $45
Arrive Early
Please, arrive at the office 30-45 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED DEPARTURE TIME. We will probably have multiple groups taking trips the same day as you, so please be considerate of others and arrive before your scheduled departure time. This allows us ample time to get you checked in and get all your gear in order. Relax, be safe, and enjoy!
Liability Release
In order to speed up the check in process, download a liability form here (PDF) and fill it in prior to your arrival. Carefully review the form and bring a signed copy for each guest in your group.
Things to Bring
- Cooler for snacks and drinks
- Water shoes or old tennis shoes
- Sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Waterproof bag or dry sac
- Insect repellent
- Trash bag (OARS practices Leave No Trace.)
- Cell phone and watch
- Dress appropriately for the weather conditions. You may want to bring a change of