Movies And Television Shows Every Paddler Should Watch

With the entertainment awards season in full swing and record-low temperatures reaching many parts of North America, there has never been a better excuse to stay at home and watch TV. With many waterways freezing over, paddling is simply out of the question for many people currently. Luckily, there are many movies and TV shows you can watch that feature paddling to help fill that void this winter.

For those looking for a narrative and Hollywood-style film featuring paddling, consider “A River Wild” or “The Sweet Escape.” “Facing Waves” is a great series to binge this winter, and features all sorts of incredible paddling locations. For those looking for a shot of adrenaline, consider checking out “Ice Waterfalls,” “Chasing Niagara,” or “Wild Waters.”

Low temperatures might make it impossible for you to launch your paddling vessel this winter, but there are still ways to get your fix of paddling when it’s dark and frigid outside. Below is a list of diverse and engaging movies and TV shows that feature paddling prominently and are worth checking out.

11 Paddling Movies And TV Shows To Watch This Winter

1. The River Wild (1994)

Where To Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

As far as Hollywood goes, films that revolve around paddling are fairly limited, but “The River Wild” remains a pulse-pumping and action-packed favorite. Starring Merryl Streep and Kevin Bacon, this thrilling hostage film takes place almost entirely on a Montana river.

It’s filled with whitewater lingo, endless scenes on the water, and enough action that even those who have never paddled before can feel what it’s like to ride rapids. It’s a great Hollywood movie to put on when you want high-octane entertainment and a dose of paddling.

2. Facing Waves (2013-Currently)

Where To Watch: PBS, Tubi

If you’re looking to binge a ton of paddling content this winter, then look no further than “Facing Waves.” This adventure and travel series features all sorts of paddling, from SUP boarding to whitewater rafting, with 65 episodes to consume. The series, hosted by Ken Whiting, combines paddling and travel and is a great way to learn more about truly epic, unique paddling destinations.

“Facing Waves” is the perfect series to turn on when you want to escape your cold reality, and maybe even start planning a trip to a bucket-list-worthy paddling destination.

3. Wild Waters (2022)

Where To Watch: Red Bull TV, Vimeo

“Wild Waters” is a feature-length documentary that follows one of the most talented and fascinating extreme kayakers of this generation, Nouria Newman. Newman is no stranger to setting records and navigating some of the most challenging and fascinating rivers on Earth.

This film showcases Newman’s accomplishments and has some incredible extreme paddling footage that is a real feast for the eyes for anyone who loves river kayaking.

4. Down The Mighty River With Steve Backshall (2017)

Where To Watch: Apple TV, Amazon UK

“Down The Mighty River With Steve Backshall” is an eye-opening two-part documentary series that follows the British naturalist and TV presenter Steve Backshall as he tries to become the first person to navigate Papua New Guinea’s Baliem River.

Not only is this an exciting documentary with plenty of white water and sweeping vistas, but it’s also an eye-opening look into Papua New Guinea. This BBC series is a friendly reminder that you can learn so much about nature, culture, and life simply by picking up a paddle and venturing into the unknown.

5. Waterwalker (1984)

Where To Watch: National Film Board of Canada Website, YouTube

“Waterwalker” is a Canadian documentary from the 1980s that follows Canadian naturalist and painter Bill Mason. It shows incredible beauty in Canada’s wilderness that you can best experience in a canoe. It also has an artistic message and emphasises the importance of preserving the natural world.

This documentary is the perfect film for those who love the beauty and tranquility of canoeing. While it doesn't compare to the real thing, it’s a film that can help get you excited for spring paddling season.

6. Ice Waterfalls (2024)

Where To Watch: Red Bull TV

Winter kayaking might be too cold for your tastes, but “Ice Waterfalls” proves that it's possible to navigate the coldest waters on Earth in a kayak. This documentary is set high above the Arctic Circle, in the remote Svalbard Archipelago in Norway. In addition to capturing the world’s first recorded 20-meter drop from a glacial waterfall, it also explores what it’s like to paddle in this unique glacial environment.

There are incredible visuals in this film, including crystal clear ice rivers, massive glaciers, and, of course, ice waterfalls. This film is an inside look into a daring kayak expedition that very few kayakers would dare to attempt, but all will enjoy witnessing from the comfort of home.

7. The Sweet Escape (2024)

Where To Watch: The Roku Channel, Apple TV, Amazon Video

“The Sweet Escape” is another rare example of a successful narrative film that centers on paddling. This 2024 French film is the perfect combination of comedy, drama, and kayaking. It follows a man who takes an epic solo paddling journey after escaping a life of urban monotony.

This is the perfect movie to put on instead of a movie you’ve seen multiple times when it’s too cold to paddle this winter. It’s a fun story that will remind you why paddling is your favorite watersport.

8. Do Big Things: Let's Go Kayaking (2025)

Where To Watch: HBO Max, Apple TV

For paddling lovers who can’t get enough of reality TV, “Do Big Things: Let’s Go Kayaking” is right up your alley. This Taiwanese reality series features various celebrities as they prepare to embark on a major kayaking endeavor.

The contestants on the show must paddle 260 kilometers, from Taiwan to Ishigaki Island, Japan. This is a truly unique show, and an off-the-beaten-path series worth checking out this winter, when it’s too cold to even think about launching your vessel.

9. The River Runner (2021)

Where To Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

“The River Runner” is an inspiring and awe-inspiring documentary about the iconic kayaker Scott Lindgren. It follows Lindgren on his quest to paddle all four of the fabled rivers that begin in the high and Himalayan peaks of Tibet.

This documentary is more than a simple adrenaline rush (although there is plenty of that, too). It also focuses on Lindgren’s personal obstacles he had to overcome to achieve this 20-year quest. “The River Runner” is the type of film that is sure to inspire every paddler.

10. Solo (2008)

Where To Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Not to be confused with the “Star Wars” film of the same name, “Solo” is a documentary that dissects Australian kayaker Andrew McAuley’s attempt to become the first person to kayak the Tasman Sea from New Zealand to Tasmania.

While this story ends tragically, it is a fascinating and eye-opening look at the minds of adventure kayakers and a glimpse into this unique part of the world.

11. Chasing Niagara (2016)

Where To Watch: Red Bull TV, Tubi

Kayaking over Niagara Falls sounds crazy, because it is. But “Chasing Niagara” is a documentary about Rafa Ortiz, as he attempts to paddle a kayak off a 167-foot drop at the fabled Niagara Falls.

The documentary features compelling training footage and offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a man committed to accomplishing this terrifying, exceptionally dangerous dream. While there are a few other kayakers who would dream of such a paddling experience, “Chasing Niagara” is definitely worth watching for the tenacity alone.