Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) is Adelaide's primary urban waterway, flowing 85 kilometres from its source near Mount Pleasant in the Mount Lofty Ranges across the Adelaide Plains and emptying into Gulf St Vincent between Henley Beach South and West Beach. The river holds deep cultural significance as the heartland of the Kaurna people, who have lived along its length for approximately 45,000 years. The Kaurna name translates to "Red Gum Forest River," referencing the dense eucalyptus forest that once lined its banks before European settlement.

The most practical paddling area is Torrens Lake, the impounded section created by the Torrens Weir in 1881, situated between the weir and Frome Street Bridge in the city centre. This stretch offers calm, flat water with views of the Adelaide city skyline, parklands, and landmarks including Adelaide Oval. Guided kayak tours depart from Pinky Flat on War Memorial Drive, with tours typically running 90 minutes. Participants should bring clothing and footwear suitable for getting wet, a hat, sunscreen, a strap for glasses, and a water bottle; a dry bag is recommended for non-waterproof cameras.

Recreational kayaking and canoeing are permitted on Torrens Lake, though the lake is subject to official closures that are clearly signed around the course of the river. Paddlers must observe all closure signage and use the waterway at their own risk. Swimming, water skiing, and any activities involving primary body contact with the water are not permitted due to water quality conditions. Blue-green algae can be an issue during high summer. Organisations and commercial operators require a River Torrens Activity Licence from the City of Adelaide, with applicable fees depending on activity type.

The lake area is well-serviced, with hire companies operating along the riverbanks making equipment accessible to visitors. The historic Lounder's Boathouse, constructed in 1913 and now housing a café, sits along the waterfront. Wildlife along the river includes native fish species and various bird life. Ongoing revegetation and water quality improvement projects over recent years have contributed to improved biodiversity along the corridor.

For guided tours, the minimum participant age is 8 years, children aged 8 to 12 must be accompanied in a kayak by someone aged 13 or older, and the maximum weight limit per paddler is 120 kilograms.