Kentucky enthusiasts recognize Frankfort, nestled on the Kentucky River between Louisville and Lexington, as the true embodiment of the state’s charm and essence.
True lovers of Kentucky know that the literal and figurative heart of this gracious southern state is the capital city of Frankfort, perfectly positioned on the shores of the Kentucky River between Louisville and Lexington. Frankfort embodies the essence of everything that makes Kentucky special from her natural charm and beauty to her brains to her world-renowned bourbon, all in one distinctly small but spirited package.
You could say that Frankfort is Kentucky Distilled.
Frankfort is fortunate to have the Kentucky River and Elkhorn Creek, both of which offer ample opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, boating, rafting, fishing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
Since 1981, Canoe Kentucky has been a family owned one-stop shop for touring, outfitting, sales and rentals to help get paddling enthusiasts out on the water. The current owners Allison Depenbrock, daughter of the company’s founder, and her husband Nathan, also own and operate the Bourbon Boat and the Bourbon Belle, through their sister company, Kentucky River Tours.
Canoe Kentucky is a full-service outfitter, whose additional options include Standup Paddle Boarding on the river where the water is calmer than on the creek; fishing expeditions by kayak to fish for bass (they even occasionally offer a course called Kayak Fishing 101 in collaboration with the state’s Fish & Wildlife staff), and an opportunity for glamping on the banks of Elkhorn Creek.
What do you get when you mix a dollop of river adventure, a dash of history, a touch of commonwealth trivia, and a taste of bourbon?
You get a floating addition to the Bourbon Trail, and what is believed to be the country’s only bourbon boat tour. A recent excursion on the Trace of Kentucky, a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected vessel, delivered all the above.
Helmed by Captain Allison, with Captain Nathan as the informative narrator, guests (myself included) got the full experience of the one-hour-and-twenty-five-minute “Tour and Taste” excursion.
Taking off from Frankfort’s dock for a journey into the pool of the Kentucky River (no dams and locks to traverse on this one), we were accompanied for several miles by a majestic blue heron, dipping and soaring above the water.
Cove Spring Park & Nature Preserve consists of approximately 240 acres of wetlands, streams, springs, waterfalls, forested ravines and other natural and historic features. The park is a nature lovers paradise and is located at the northern city limits off US 127/Holmes Street. The park is intended for activities such as walking, hiking, nature observation, environmental education, picnicking and other passive activities. The park is separated into 3 areas, lower cove, upper cove, and the wetlands area.
Your Adventure Starts Here!
Experience the most unique river tours in the Midwest.
Based in Madison, Indiana, these are the only boat tours of both the Ohio River and Kentucky River.
3 different river experiences to choose from. YOU GO FARTHER. YOU SEE MORE. YOU HAVE FUN.
Nestled along the Kentucky River, our marina restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes crafted from Kentucky Proud ingredients and fresh, locally raised meats.
For those on the go, our grab-and-go snacks are perfect for boaters looking to refuel quickly before heading back out on the water. We also provide convenient gas services to ensure your boat is always ready for your next adventure!
