Overview
The central area of the European part of Russia, surrounding St.Petersburg and Moscow, is a mainly flat, sometimes slightly hilly landscape. Obviously there is no substantial whitewater in this area, except for some local playspots. Due to the reason that this region is well populated (by kayakers), all these places are well-known and are infested by the paddlers all the season.
Type of Paddling
Park&Play. All the rivers are flat class 1 (rarely 2) and running them is better done in a recreational family canoe, rather than a whitewater kayak.
Season & Climate
April till September. Climate is temperate; all the rivers are at sea level and fed mainly by spring snowmelting. The winter is gone typically early April, and April-May is the high water season, best for paddling, but water is very cold at the beginning. Most rivers come to low water level quickly, within few weeks, and playspots disappear.
Getting There & Away
Obvious gateway cities are Moscow and St.Petersburg, with numerous flights to most of Europe and world. There is an option to come to St.Petersburg overland from Finland or Baltic countries, either by train or bus/car.
Local access is better done by car, because most of the spots are within few hours drive from either city.
