Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Howe Avenue
Howe Avenue is a public boat ramp on American River near Sacramento, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Limited
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Howe Avenue offers river paddling on American River in California. Located near Sacramento.
Located in California, Howe Avenue puts you on American River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.
Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.
Water conditions are generally mild current. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Getting here from Sacramento takes about 5 min, putting Howe Avenue within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to Sacramento.
Launch points, tips, and local conditions →
Paddling Tips
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Howe Avenue?
- Howe Avenue is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Howe Avenue?
- Howe Avenue supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Howe Avenue?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Howe Avenue?
- The best time to paddle at Howe Avenue is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
- What are the water conditions at Howe Avenue?
- Water conditions at Howe Avenue include mild current.
- Is Howe Avenue good for beginners?
- Yes, Howe Avenue is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.5599, -121.4050
Quick Facts
- State
- California
- Region
- West
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Sacramento
38.5599, -121.4050
Best Paddling in California
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
More Paddling on American River
2 other launches on this water body
Nearby Paddling

Watt Avenue
California · 1.4 mi
Broderick Boat
California · 6.0 mi
Sacramento City Marina (North Basin)
California · 6.0 mi
Sacramento City Marina (South Basin)
California · 6.0 mi
Discovery Park
California · 6.3 mi
Lake Washington Sailing Club
California · 8.0 mi