Paddle to Hell: Indipendant SUP trip through the Two Canyons

Paddleboarding down the Stjørdalselva River offers a rare glimpse into Norway’s rugged natural beauty with a thrill factor thrown in. This independent SUP adventure takes you through a narrow, winding section known as the Two Canyons Run, renowned for its class 2 rapids and fast-flowing waters. With about 3 hours of activity, including preparation time, it’s a balanced mix of adrenaline and scenic calm—ideal for those with some paddling experience looking for a more autonomous yet safe experience.

What makes this trip stand out is the freedom and independence it offers—once briefed on safety, you’re on your own to navigate the river’s twists and turns. The full-length 5/4mm wetsuits provided ensure you stay warm and dry amid the spray and splashes, adding to the fun. A slight caveat: this isn’t suited for complete beginners or non-swimmers, and paddlers should be comfortable managing some fast-paced water.

If you enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic vistas, and a dash of challenge, then this SUP trip is a fantastic pick. It’s best suited for paddling enthusiasts with some experience, those craving a more self-reliant experience, and those eager to explore Norway’s dramatic river landscapes from a unique perspective.

Key Points

• Independent experience with safety briefing before paddling
• Fast-flowing river with class 2 rapids for added excitement
• Includes wetsuits, boots, PFD, helmet, offering good value
• Suitable for paddlers with some prior SUP experience
• Not recommended for non-swimmers or those under 4 ft 8 in
• Duration of around 3 hours, with about an hour for prep

An In-Depth Look at the Paddle to Hell SUP Tour

What is the Paddle to Hell Experience?

This tour offers an independent stand-up paddleboarding trip along the Two Canyons section of the Stjørdalselva River in Trøndelag County, Norway. Unlike guided tours, here you’ll receive a safety briefing from an instructor before launching, then it’s all on your own to navigate the river’s twists and rapids. The focus is on autonomy and adventure, making it an appealing choice for paddlers comfortable with some river handling skills.

Why Choose This Tour?

One of the biggest draws is the independent nature of the trip. While guided experiences are wonderful for beginners, this tour is designed for those who already know how to paddle and want to experience the river with more freedom. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a self-reliant adventure in a stunning natural setting.

Safety and Equipment

Safety is a top priority, with all participants receiving a comprehensive safety brief from an instructor beforehand. The tour includes SUP & Paddle, wetsuits, boots, PFD, and helmet, which means you’re well-equipped for the conditions. The provided full-length 5/4mm wetsuits help keep you warm, especially important given the likelihood of getting splashed or wet during the rapids.

What You Need to Know About Paddleboarding Experience

While some paddling experience is recommended, the trip isn’t specified as suitable for complete beginners. Reviewers have noted that people with prior SUP skills will get the most out of this adventure. If you’re new to paddleboarding, it might be worth scheduling a lesson or opting for a guided trip first.

Duration and Flow

The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with roughly an hour of preparation to get into gear and travel to the starting point. The downriver paddling usually takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on river conditions and your paddling speed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Starting Point: Paddle to Hell at the Flornes Meeting Point — a small parking area on the south side of the bridge serves as your launch zone. You’ll get your safety briefing here.
• Transport: After the briefing, a 20-minute Jeep or SUV ride transports you to the river’s upper stretch near Meråker.
• Paddle Time: The real fun begins as you navigate the narrow canyon section, with class 2 rapids adding a splash of excitement. Expect to get wet—bring waterproof gear for your dry clothes and essentials.
• Return: Once the paddle is complete, you’ll be transported back to the original meeting point.

What Makes the Two Canyons Special?

The Two Canyons Run is known for its challenging, fast-flowing waters within a scenic, narrow setting. Reviewers have appreciated how the class 2 rapids give a good adrenaline kick without being overwhelming. The canyon walls—steep and dramatic—offer a striking backdrop that makes every paddle stroke feel like an adventure.

Authentic Experience and Practicalities

One reviewer mentioned that the trip “felt more like a real adventure,” emphasizing the sense of independence and the stunning environment. The experience is limited to small groups (up to six participants), which fosters a more personalized, less crowded environment.

What to Bring and Wear

• Under wetsuit: simple swimwear or sports underwear
• Extras: towel, dry clothes for after the trip, water, sunscreen, and snacks
• Clothing: pack warm clothes to change into post-activity
• Safety: a helmet is provided, but you should follow all instructions carefully to stay safe in the rapids

Group Size and Language

The group is small, capped at six participants, which ensures plenty of individual attention and safety. Guides speak English, making communication straightforward for international travelers.

Pricing and Booking

You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility for changing plans. The reserve now, pay later option allows for a worry-free booking process—ideal if you’re planning your trip in advance but unsure of final dates.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This SUP trip is perfect for adventurous paddlers with some prior experience who want to explore Norway’s rivers in a more autonomous setting. It’s best for those comfortable managing moderate rapids and who enjoy scenic, natural environments. Not suitable for non-swimmers or those under 4 ft 8 in, given the physical demands and safety considerations. If you’re looking for a guided, beginner-friendly tour, this may not be the best option, but for confident paddlers seeking a challenge, it’s a rewarding choice.

Final Thoughts

Paddle to Hell offers a rare chance to combine adventure, independence, and scenic beauty in Norway’s stunning river landscapes. The Two Canyons Run provides enough excitement with its class 2 rapids, but also allows for quiet moments of paddling through narrow canyon walls that will stay with you long after the trip ends. The inclusion of quality gear, a safety briefing, and small group sizes make this a well-rounded, enjoyable outing.

This tour excels most when you’re seeking a self-guided adventure in a natural setting, with just enough challenge to keep things interesting. It’s not for absolute beginners or non-swimmers, but if you meet the criteria, it’s a memorable way to experience Norway’s wild rivers from a stand-up paddleboard.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
No, some paddling experience is recommended. It’s designed for those who already know how to SUP and handle moving water.

How long does the trip last?
The total duration is about 3 hours, including an hour of preparation and a few hours of paddling downstream.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a swimsuit or sports underwear to wear under your wetsuit, a towel, dry clothes, water, sunscreen, and snacks for after the trip.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, full-length 5/4mm wetsuits and boots are included, ensuring you stay warm and dry during the paddle.

What is the minimum age or size?
Participants should be at least 145 cm tall and under 130 kg. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers.

What safety equipment is included?
You’ll get a PFD (life jacket), helmet, wetsuit, and boots. A safety briefing will also be provided before launching.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at the small parking area on the south side of the bridge at Flornes and ends back at the same spot after paddling through the canyon.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age limit?
While not explicitly stated, the size and swimming requirements imply it’s best suited for older children and adults who meet the height and weight restrictions.

Overall, Paddle to Hell’s SUP trip offers a wonderful way to experience Norway’s rugged rivers with a good balance of challenge and scenery. If you’re confident on a board and craving an adventure that’s both independent and scenic, this is an experience worth considering.