The Rainbow River is a first magnitude spring with an outflow of about 400-600 MILLION gallons of cool water (72 degrees year round to be exact) a DAY! It is ranked fourth in the state for volume of discharge and is truly a treasure of the Nature Coast. There is archeological evidence that prehistoric people used the Rainbow River of Dunnellon for clean water, food, making stone tools, and cooling off, more than 12,000 years ago! Now known as the Rainbow River, this crystal clear water has also been previously called Wekiwa Creek, Blue Run, and appropriately, Blue Spring. Today the Rainbow River is proudly recognized as a Natural Trademark, an Aquatic Preserve, and an Outstanding Florida Waterway.
“YOU COULD NOT STEP TWICE INTO THE SAME RIVER; FOR OTHER WATERS ARE EVER FLOWING ON TO YOU” ~ HERACLITUS OF EPHESUS (540 BC – 480 BC)
Of course there’s much more to the beautiful Rainbow River than just the water itself. While exploring in your kayak from Rainbow River Kayak Adventures, you will come upon an abundance of local wildlife, some of which is featured on the South West Florida Water Management District endangered species list. You will see plenty of fish and turtles, amphibians, a wide variety of birds, playful river otters, and if you’re lucky, an occasional alligator or two will appear to wish you well on your adventure!
The Rainbow River definitely lives up to its name as an Outstanding Florida Waterway; its natural beauty draws thousands of visitors to the area each year. Be sure to have your eyes open or your camera ready while embarking on your adventure down the Rainbow River. Amongst the Cypress Knees and Spanish Moss you will see many birds fishing the river, such as Blue Heron, Cormorants, Osprey, Anhinga, Bald Eagles, White Ibis, Wood Ducks and many, many more! Considered locally the “Bass Capital of the World!” your adventure is also sure to include encounters with Large Mouth Bass, Catfish, Bluegill, and Gar, just to mention a few.
Wildlife aren’t the only ones who appreciate the beautiful Rainbow River though, the area is popular to people worldwide for kayaking, tubing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, picnics, and many other family friendly adventures!
“A MAN OF WISDOM DELIGHTS IN WATER” ~ CONFUCIUS
The peaceful Rainbow River flows at a mere 1 mile per hour and is entirely an “idle-speed” “no wake zone” river; great for paddling your Rainbow River Kayak Adventures kayak! While paddling along on your kayak adventure you will notice that shallow, clear bottomed areas make up most of the Rainbow River. These areas are great for getting up close and personal with local wildlife. You will also be able to spot multiple springs and caves along the sandy bottom of the river and areas where the crystal clear blue water reaches depths of up to 30 feet. The Rainbow River has so much to offer, for all ages- whether it’s sports activities you’re looking for or some simple relaxation, come visit us at Rainbow River Kayak Adventures and “paddle your boat- or enjoy the float!”- RRKA