Rent a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard yourself

Borrow a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard and more from these area spots.

Rutabaga Paddlesports
Pop by Olbrich Park in the warmer months to rent a canoe, kayak or SUP and go for a splash on Lake Monona. You can even make a day of it and stop by Michael’s Frozen Custard for a post-paddle pick-me-up. rutabagashop.com

Marshall Boats
One of three Madison Boats locations in the area, Marshall Boats offers rentals of all sorts, including four types of kayaks, two types of SUPs and a pontoon boat. Launch at the western edge of Lake Mendota and take in the beauty of the largest of the city’s lakes. madisonboats.com

Wingra Boats
In addition to kayaks and SUPs, Wingra Boats off Monroe Street rents out canoes, paddleboats, rowboats and even a giant rubber ducky boat. Those looking to SUP with a group can try the “Mega SUP,” which can hold up to six people for an afternoon of oversized entertainment on Lake Wingra. madisonboats.com

Brittingham Boats
Bask in the sun and tour downtown from the water by renting and launching at Brittingham Boats on Monona Bay. The Madison skyline marked by Monona Terrace is a sight to see from the water. madisonboats.com

Memorial Union
Propel yourself between Picnic Point and Tenney Park after taking advantage of rentals through the Outdoor UW program on Lake Mendota. Tandem kayaks and SUPs are available, and a double-trouble trip pairs nicely with a pitcher. union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/outdoor-uw

Adaptive Kayaking
Madison SCI has partnered with Brittingham Boats and the Middleton Parks System to make sure everyone can enjoy the water. Adaptive kayaks come in both singles and tandem (at Brittingham only), and should be requested at least 48 hours in advance of your outing. sci-madison.org/kayaking

Spots to rent in the ‘burbs

Sugar River Outfitters, Belleville: Ride the Upper Sugar River from Verona to Paoli, finishing at Paoli Mill Park. Enjoy a meal and brews from the Hop Garden Tap Room or Molina Taqueria before heading home … if you’re not too tuckered out, that is. sugarriveroutfitterswi.com

Blackhawk River Runs, Mazomanie: Take your canoeing a step further by scheduling a trip with Blackhawk River Runs. Opt for a daylong outing with your pals, or if you’re up for it, spend a night sandbar camping on the Lower Wisconsin River. blackhawkriverruns.com

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