About Black Dog Kayak & SUP
Black Dog Kayak & SUP is a woman-owned paddlesport outfitter based in Duluth, offering guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard tours on Lake Superior, the St. Louis River, and inland lakes around the North Shore. Founded with a mission to create enriching on-water experiences that foster community, the company caters especially to women while welcoming paddlers of all genders and experience levels.
Tours range from calm estuary paddles through the St. Louis River marshlands — where you might spot great blue herons, bald eagles, and beavers — to more adventurous Lake Superior shoreline paddles along the rugged basalt cliffs north of Duluth. They also offer SUP and kayak rentals with delivery to your preferred launch point, so you can explore at your own pace. All gear, instruction, and safety equipment is included on guided trips, making it a turnkey experience for first-timers.
What makes Black Dog stand out is the personal, small-group approach. Trip sizes are kept intentionally small so guides can tailor the experience to the group's ability and interests. The focus on inclusivity and community-building has earned them a strong reputation among locals and a loyal following on social media.
