Brown Bear Canoe and Kayak Rentals has announced that the 2026 season will be its last at its current Flint River location, bringing an end to a 10-season run for the local outdoor recreation business.
The company shared the news with customers on Facebook, explaining that uncertainty surrounding its month-to-month property lease, combined with the financial challenges of operating a seasonal business, led the owners to make the decision.
According to Brown Bear, the business began with a one-year lease in 2017 and has operated on a month-to-month agreement since then. The property is held in a family trust, and Brown Bear said the property owners have been unable to offer a long-term lease because of the possibility that the trust may need to be settled.
Brown Bear emphasized in its announcement that it understands the property owners’ position and expressed gratitude to the family for providing the opportunity to operate there over the years.
The uncertainty comes after several challenging seasons for the kayak and canoe rental business. Brown Bear cited drought conditions during two previous seasons and excessive rain during the 2026 season, including weather that affected business during several holiday weekends.
As a seasonal operation dependent heavily on river and weather conditions, the company also pointed to rising costs for insurance, fuel, vehicle maintenance and labor as factors contributing to the decision.
10 Seasons on the Flint River
Brown Bear began as what its owners described as a hobby and a love for the Flint River before growing into a business that introduced thousands of visitors to the waterway.
Over the past decade, the company has offered canoe and kayak trips while also placing an emphasis on conservation and introducing families and children to the river’s ecosystem.
In its announcement, Brown Bear reflected on watching families return year after year, introducing first-time visitors to the Flint River and welcoming guests from both the Huntsville area and around the world.
While the current location is closing, the owners aren’t necessarily closing the door on Brown Bear permanently.
The company said it has already been presented with a couple of potential opportunities and plans to explore ways it could continue operating in some form in the future.
One More Chance to Float
Brown Bear plans to continue operating on weekends through most of October, with weekday trips available by reservation. Due to current water levels, the company said it is currently running only its lower eight-mile route.
Field trips will also continue through October.
Brown Bear’s Annual Native American Knap-In will serve as its final event at the property. The event is scheduled for October 23–25, and the business plans to hold a boat sale and clearance sale that weekend as well. Parking at the property will remain available through November 1.
The Brown Bear Facebook page will remain active, and the owners are encouraging customers to share photos and memories from their time on the Flint River.
Although this chapter of Brown Bear is coming to an end, the owners said they plan to continue supporting nonprofit organizations working to protect the Flint River and hope to remain connected to the river in the years ahead.