Canoe and Camp the River Tay

Paddle the River Tay from Loch Tay to Perth with wild camping, thrilling rapids and expert guidance from Canoe Trail.

Level: Open water Lochs and rivers, grade 1 - 3 with lots of amazing rapids along the way

30th September to 3rd October 2026
8-10 people
£595

30th September to 3rd October 2026
Duration: 4 day river journey by canoe from Loch Tay to Perth on the River Tay

The River Tay is one of Britain’s top white-water canoeing rivers, starting from the stunning Loch Tay in Scotland and flowing towards Perth with thrilling rapids, ancient Crannogs, and rich wildlife along the way. This River Tay canoe expedition combines adventure, wild camping, and expert coaching to give you an unforgettable Scottish paddling experience.

Options: Contact us to book a private trip or register interest for future dates in 2027

What's Included

Craft
Buoyancy Aid
Basic Map
Bank Based Briefing
Dry Bag
Paddles
Helmet
Professional Coaches
Water
Cooking Kit
Your Campsite
Food and Meals

We also have some back support for those with back problems

What else we can provide on request

Waterproofs
Hire of Wetsuits
Tipi Tent
Hire of Drysuits

Secure a place with £99 (non refundable) deposit and our instalment payment option.

If you are not able to book this trip then it is at full capacity so please contact us. If you have a group of friends that are interested, we have the option to run bespoke trips.

Dates & Requirements

Next Trip Dates: 30th Sept to 3rd October 2026 please contact us to register interest for 2027 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

You will need to have some experience of paddling a canoe, if you're new to paddling we can run a coaching course for you in the build up to this trip lessons and courses.

Price: £595 including all equipment, breakfast and evening meals and wild camping

Trip Details – Canoe and Camp the River Tay

Join us for an unforgettable wild water canoe and camping expedition on Loch Tay and the River Tay, one of Scotland’s most iconic paddling routes. This adventure combines thrilling rapids, peaceful loch paddling, tree-lined valleys, and expert coaching from our professional guides.

The journey begins on the beautiful Loch Tay, where we paddle past ancient Crannogs (historic water-based dwellings) before reaching the charming town of Kenmore. From here, the river builds in volume, offering gentle rapids that grow more exciting as we approach Aberfeldy. It’s the perfect setting to learn and develop white water canoeing skills such as breaking in and out, ferry gliding, and surfing small waves. Evenings are spent wild camping by the river, cooking hearty meals over the fire, and soaking up the wilderness atmosphere.

Further downstream, we reach Grandtully Rapids, home to Scotland’s national white water training venue and a solid set of Grade 3 rapids. Depending on water levels, you may portage or paddle these rapids under the guidance of our experienced instructors. From Dunkeld onwards, the river offers a steady progression of rapids, ideal for structured coaching and building confidence. Signature highlights along the way include Campsie Linn, Stanley Mills, and Thistle Brig, before finishing your adventure in Perth.

Who Is This Trip For?

The River Tay Canoe Expedition is designed for a wide range of paddlers:

Beginners looking for a supportive introduction to moving water canoeing.
Improvers wanting to develop white water skills and build confidence.
Advanced paddlers consolidating skills and working towards canoe leader qualifications.

Why Join This Expedition?

Paddle Scotland’s most famous river with professional, qualified guides.
Learn essential white water canoeing techniques in a progressive way.
Enjoy wild camping in stunning riverbank locations.
Experience a balance of skills coaching and adventure travel.

This is a must-do Scottish canoe trip for anyone looking to explore white water, enjoy the outdoors, and take their paddling to the next level.

Hire FAQ's

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

If you're not sure of what each craft is, then read our guide here.

Are the trips guided?

There are no guides or instructors needed for hire. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point. We recommend our preferred route, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river.

What if it rains?

Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a couple of times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.

How does the booking process work?

We use a live booking system that will assign you the relevant craft and resources. Once you have confirmed your booking date, it is not then transferable and non-refundable in the same way you book an airline seat. Bookings are to be paid in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable. There will be no refunds for early returns, poor weather, or non-usage as per our general terms & conditions.