Paddle to Hell: Guided SUP trip through the Two Canyons
If you’re craving an adventure that combines Norway’s stunning natural beauty with a splash of adrenaline, the Paddle to Hell guided SUP trip offers just that. It’s more than just standing on a board; it’s a chance to glide through narrow, rushing canyons, navigate class 2 rapids, and soak in scenic valleys that look like they belong in a postcard.
Travelers tend to love the balance of independence and expert guidance. The safety paddler is there to ensure you feel secure while still giving you space to enjoy the thrill of maneuvering in fast-moving water. The full-length wetsuit and gear provided help keep you warm and dry in Norway’s cool climate. One thing to keep in mind: this trip is physically demanding, so it’s best suited for those comfortable around water and with a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re after an authentic, hands-on adventure with spectacular views, this is a standout choice.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Scenic yet wild experience on Norway’s narrow Two Canyons section.
- Guided with safety paddler and expert advice to boost confidence.
- Includes all necessary gear, from wetsuits to helmets, for comfort and safety.
- Suitable for adventurous non-swimmers and those over 10 years old.
- Duration of about 3 hours, with prep and travel time included.
- Small group experience limited to 6 participants for personalized attention.
Looking for more options in Stjordal? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Exploring Norway’s River Adventure: What the Paddle to Hell Tour Offers
This guided SUP trip offers a unique chance to explore the Stjørdalselva River, which snakes from the mountains at the Swedish border down into the village of Hell. The tour takes you through the Two Canyons, a narrow, winding stretch packed with class 2 rapids. These rapids are perfect for adding some excitement without going overboard — ideal for those who want a bit of action but not a full-on white-water challenge.
The trip is designed to be accessible yet adventurous. Expect to start with around an hour of preparation, where you get fitted with all your safety gear—wetsuits, boots, PFDs, helmets—and travel by vehicle to the river’s starting point. Once on the water, you’ll be accompanied by a safety kayaker who offers basic coaching and guides you through the best routes through the rapids.
Downstream, the paddling typically lasts between 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on river flow and how quickly you paddle. The mix of fast-moving water and scenic landscape creates a dynamic experience, balancing thrill and tranquility. As one reviewer noted, “The guides were really friendly and professional, making sure everyone felt confident,” which hints at the quality of instruction and safety.
Planning Your Trip: Itinerary Breakdown
Starting Point at Flornes Bridge
The adventure begins at the Paddle to Hell meeting point, located on the south side of the bridge (river left). This is where you’ll gather with your group and outfitter. Expect to spend about an hour here, getting fitted with your gear and listening to safety instructions. This prep time is crucial, especially if you’re new to SUP or white-water paddling.
More Great Tours NearbyTravel to the River and Safety Briefing
A short 20-minute drive in a jeep or SUV takes you to the river’s starting point in Meraker. Once there, the guides deliver a 40-minute safety briefing, explaining what to expect from the rapids, how to paddle, and what to do in case of a fall or emergency. They also cover paddle techniques, emphasizing that SUP is more independent than rafting, but safety always comes first.
The Main Paddleboarding Experience
The core of the trip is the 3-hour paddle through the scenic yet wild section of the river. You’ll be navigating narrow canyons, working around bends, and tackling the swift rapids with the guidance of your safety paddler. Reviewers mention feeling “pretty wet”, which is expected given the full-length wetsuits, so packing a change of clothes is recommended.
End of the Trip and Return
After the paddle, you’ll return to the starting point at Flornes Bridge. Many travelers describe this as a satisfying finish, having experienced Norway’s raw beauty from a perspective few get—standing on a board, surrounded by rushing water and towering canyon walls.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The tour provides all essential safety gear, including wetsuits, boots, PFDs, helmets, and SUPs with paddles. The full-length 5/4mm wetsuits are suitable for Norwegian weather, keeping you warm even if the water feels chilly.
What you’ll need to bring yourself are simple items: a bathing suit or sports underwear to wear under the wetsuit, a towel and dry clothes for after the trip, along with water, sunscreen, and snacks to stay energized. The tour operators specify that fishing, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, aligning with safety and environmental considerations.
The Experience: What Makes It Special
Travelers consistently mention the friendly and professional guides, noting that the safety paddler is particularly helpful, especially for beginners or those less experienced in white-water activities. The fact that the group is limited to 6 participants ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The scenic valley surrounding the river adds to the appeal. The narrow canyons carve through the landscape, offering views that are as photogenic as they are exhilarating. The class 2 rapids introduce enough action to keep the experience exciting without being overly intimidating, making it ideal for adventurous beginners or those with some paddling experience.
One reviewer shared, “The guides were helpful and made sure I knew what to do, but I still loved the feeling of steering through the rapids myself.” This highlights the balance of support and independence that defines this experience.
Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Cost
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, with the actual paddling time depending on river conditions. It’s available on a flexible schedule with check availability for start times. The small group size—limited to 6 people—ensures a more intimate and manageable experience, especially important on a day with variable river flow.
In terms of value, the all-inclusive package—gear, safety instruction, and guide—is quite reasonable considering the adventure and scenic value. The full safety equipment and professional guidance add peace of mind. The optional reservation with “reserve now, pay later” provides flexibility, which is handy if your travel plans are still in flux.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This SUP adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water-based activities and want an authentic experience in Norway’s wild landscape. It’s suitable for non-swimmers and those over 10 years old, though it’s not recommended for people over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm), 287 lbs (130 kg), or those over 95 years old—probably due to safety and physical demands.
If you’re after a scenic, adrenaline-filled activity that’s safe with professional guidance, this tour offers a fantastic combination of adventure and natural beauty. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, lazy day, or aren’t comfortable around water, this might not be the best fit.
Final Thoughts
The Paddle to Hell SUP trip through Norway’s Two Canyons delivers a rare blend of scenic awe and adrenaline rush. It’s built for those who want to challenge themselves a bit while soaking in one of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. The professional guides, safety gear, and small group size all contribute to a well-organized, memorable outing.
While it involves some physical effort and getting wet, the experience offers true authenticity—standing on a board navigating some of the river’s most exciting rapids. This trip is a great choice for active travelers looking for a unique way to see Norway’s wilderness, especially if they enjoy water sports or outdoor adventure.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re after a fun, scenic, and adventurous way to explore Norway’s rivers, and you’re comfortable in water, this SUP trip is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for those interested in small-group, guided experiences with a good mix of action and scenery. Not ideal for very young children, those with limited mobility, or anyone who prefers a more relaxed day by the water.
FAQ
Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trip is designed to be accessible for beginners, with a safety paddler providing guidance and basic coaching.
What should I wear?
Just a bathing suit or sports underwear under your wetsuit, plus a towel and dry clothes for after the trip.
How wet will I get?
Expect to get quite wet, as the full-length wetsuits are designed to keep you warm even if you splash or fall in.
Are snacks and drinks provided?
No, but you should pack water, snacks, and sunscreen yourself.
Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable around water and can follow safety instructions.
What is the group size?
Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.
Are there age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.
This guided SUP trip through Norway’s Two Canyons offers an authentic, fun-filled way to experience the country’s wilderness from a truly unique perspective. Whether you’re craving a dash of adventure or just want to see Norway’s scenic valleys in a new way, it’s an experience that blends excitement with natural beauty.
You can check availability for your dates here: