Moonlight Canoe Trip
Float all day in the river • No paddling needed!
Quick Details
- Ages: All ages
- Duration: 2 hours
- Dates: June 14th, July 12th, August 9th, and September 6th
Single Tube Rental
Ages 12+
$ 30
Ages 12+
$ 50
$ 30
Book online
- Real-time availability
About our Romantic Moonlight Canoe Trip
Night time canoeing is a magical experience. The Hocking River is calm and peaceful a before the night fall. Paddle the Hocking River as it quietly settles in for the night. The full moon shines bright to lead the way; but do not only use your sense of sight. Let your other senses guide as you will find something surreal about the water, the trees and the surrounding wildlife.
Trip Details:
- Buses depart at 7:30pm. The trip launches at our Crocketts Run launch and concludes at the canoe livery landing.
- Plan to be on the river about 1-2 hours.
- Prepare to paddle the first hour during the sunset and the second hour under the full moon.
EVENTS
Moonlight Canoe Dates June 27-The Strawberry Moon name comes from the Native American Algonquian tribe and Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota, who used it to track when wild strawberries were ripe enough to pick. This Moon reminds us to enjoy what’s ripe before it passes.
Saturday July 25 – Buck Moon – July 29, This moon marks the time of the year when male deer begin regrowing their antlers, symbolizing strength, development, and rising power.
August 29th – Sturgeons, a fish, were plentiful and essential for sustenance. This Moon honors resilience and long-term survival.
September 26
Moonlight Experience: Canal Walk, River Paddle & Fireside Gathering
The Moonlight Experience is a thoughtfully curated evening designed to help you slow down and connect with the Hocking Hills in a deeper way. As daylight fades, guests begin with a short, guided walk along the historic Hocking Canal, easing the transition from day to night while learning a bit about the landscape and its quiet history.
After the walk, you’ll launch onto the Hocking River for a peaceful moonlight paddle. As darkness settles in, the river becomes calm and reflective, guided by the glow of the full moon and the gentle rhythm of paddling. The experience is unhurried and serene—an opportunity to take in the sounds of the water, the surrounding forest, and the stillness of the night.
Following the paddle, the evening concludes with a fireside gathering. Guests are invited to relax by a glowing bonfire, enjoy a hosted glass of wine, and unwind with soft background music under the stars. It’s a warm, welcoming close to an unforgettable night on the river.
The Moonlight Experience is intentionally limited in size and ideal for couples, small groups, and anyone seeking a calm, memorable outdoor evening. This is more than a canoe trip—it’s a complete evening
Moonlight Paddle
The Moonlight Paddle is a relaxed nighttime canoe trip designed for guests who simply want to enjoy the Hocking River under the stars. As the sun sets and the river quiets, you’ll launch onto calm water and paddle at an easy pace through darkened river bends and softly lit treelines.
Guided by moonlight and the gentle rhythm of the river, this trip offers a peaceful and scenic way to experience the Hocking Hills after dark. With minimal structure and a laid-back flow, it’s perfect for groups, repeat guests, and anyone looking for a fun and uncomplicated nighttime paddle.
The Moonlight Paddle focuses on the river itself—no hikes, no extras—just a memorable night on the water.
Dates June 27, July 25, August 29 September 26
🌕 Moonlight Experience – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is included in the Moonlight Experience?
The Moonlight Experience includes a short guided walk along the historic Hocking Canal, a peaceful moonlight paddle on the Hocking River, and a fireside gathering with a hosted glass of wine and soft background music. All paddling equipment and shuttle service are included.
2. How long does the Moonlight Experience last?
Guests should plan for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours total, including the canal walk, time on the river, and the fireside gathering after the paddle.
3. Do I need canoeing or kayaking experience?
No prior experience is required. This experience takes place on a calm stretch of river and is designed to be relaxed and beginner-friendly. Our staff provides a brief orientation before launching.
4. Is the canal walk difficult?
No. The canal walk is easy and unhurried, lasting about 10–20 minutes on flat terrain. It’s meant to set the tone for the evening, not to be a strenuous hike.
5. Who is the Moonlight Experience best suited for?
The Moonlight Experience is ideal for couples, small groups, and visitors looking for a peaceful, memorable evening outdoors. Group size is intentionally limited to maintain a calm, intimate atmosphere.
6. What should we bring with us?
We recommend bringing:
- Weather-appropriate clothing (a light jacket is often helpful)
- Secure footwear
- Water
- A watertight case for phones or small personal items
Please avoid bringing valuables you are not comfortable getting wet.
7. Is wine included, and do I need to be 21?
Yes, a hosted glass of wine is included as part of the fireside gathering. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to receive wine. Non-alcoholic options are available upon request.
8. What happens if the weather or river conditions aren’t ideal?
Moonlight Experiences may still take place in light cloud cover, as the atmosphere is part of the experience. In the event of unsafe weather or river conditions, guests will be contacted regarding rescheduling or cancellation.
9. How is this different from the Moonlight Paddle?
The Moonlight Paddle is a paddle-only nighttime trip. The Moonlight Experience is a fully curated evening, including a guided canal walk, moonlight paddle, and fireside gathering with wine. It is smaller in size and offered on limited dates.
Natural Rockbridge Tour in the Hocking Hills
Our most popular tour because our drop-off is located directly across from the Natural Rockridge. What better way to start your trip than seeing one of the mid-west’s largest natural bridge formations. Trip is perfect for families, beginners and experienced paddlers alike! Natural Rockbridge Tour is 7 miles and approximately 2-3 hours.
3+
2 - 3 HOURS
Most popular
Easy hike to natural rockbridge
Natural Rockbridge Tour in the Hocking Hills
Our most popular tour because our drop-off is located directly across from the Natural Rockridge. What better way to start your trip than seeing one of the mid-west’s largest natural bridge formations. Trip is perfect for families, beginners and experienced paddlers alike! Natural Rockbridge Tour is 7 miles and approximately 2-3 hours.
3+
2 - 3 HOURS
Most popular
Easy hike to natural rockbridge
