You've got the dog. Now you want to find the summertime day-trip you and the whole family can enjoy—in a place that's off the beaten path. Time to float in style! Head to the Russian River and lose the crowds in an inflatable SOAR canoe that coasts along a cool, clean, and quiet 8 miles of the river. Never been in an inflatable canoe? Think of it as a cushy Cadillac on water. It navigates with ease, and it noses to shore for snack breaks and snoozin' in the sun. SOAR Russian River Adventures makes it all happen. The family-friendly company puts you and two friends—or a pal and a pooch—in an inflatable canoe that floats a part of the Russian River most paddlers don't know exists. Enjoy hours of solitude, excellent swimming holes, and keep a keen eye out for bald eagles. SOAR will shuttle you back to your car when you're done—and they won't complain when your wet mutt shakes off the dog-day afternoon, making a splash that everyone feels. Arf!
TIP: Reservations are a must. Weekends can sell out 5–10 days in advance. Midweek is a great time to go!
Russian River Adventures, 20 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg; 707-433-5599.