Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes originally opened on July 4th, 1956, as part of the Indian Village area expansion. Named after the legendary 19th century icon, Davey Crockett, this attraction takes guests on a ride back in time. You’ll pass through three different lands as you cruise full circle around Tom Sayer Island. The journey travels past Columbia Gorge, five waterfalls, and past a Native American village. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as well, as moose, deer, and beavers have been spotted along the riverbanks.
Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes – What You Need To Know
Riders embark and disembark the Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes attraction from a small boat dock near the Hungry Bear restaurant in Critter Country. The 20-passenger vessels are real, free-floating canoes. There’s no track to follow or motor to propel passengers along on this attraction. Guests are given an ore and encouraged to help navigate the Rivers of America.
The canoes are lightweight, so never fear if you are unable to help with paddling (or just want to go along for the ride) as the guides are able to navigate the river without any guest help. Younger riders will also be required to wear a life jacket, for added safety.
The Best Time To Ride
Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes is one of just a handful of Disneyland attractions that operates with a different schedule than that of the park. If ridding Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes is a priority, then we suggest getting in line as soon as the attraction opens. If there’s rain or wind in the forecast, Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes may close early, or not open at all.
Lightning Lane and Single Rider
Because of the nature of the Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes attraction, neither LightningLane nor Single Rider lines are offered. Rider Switch is also not available.
Interesting Trivia To Impress Your Friends
Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes is the only Disneyland attraction powered by the riders.
The attraction originally opened in 1956 and was called the Indian War Canoes.
Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes is one of just two attractions to be located in three different lands without ever being moved (Indian Village, Bear Country, and Critter Country).
The canoe ride follows the same path as the two larger ships, the Mark Twain Riverboat and the Sailing Ship Columbia.
Pro Tip: The Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes attraction closes early on days when the Fantasmic! show is presented. If this is a must-ride, get there early.
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Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes: The Basics
- Location: Critter Country
- Type: Water Ride
- Height Requirement: Any Height
- Rider Switch: No
- FastPass: No
- Single Rider: No
- DWD Ride Rating: 1 Mickey
- Fun Fact: The canoes are 35-feet long and can seat up to 20 guests.
Updated: July 25th, 2021
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