Paddle boarding and kayaking on Cape Fear River near Lillington, NC

Easy Paddle

  • Activities

    Kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding

  • Duration

    2 miles; up to 2 hours

  • River features

    mostly calm water; one small rapid, and rock garden before the take-out

  • Skill level

    beginner

  • Age

    3+

  • Weight limit

    kayaks and canoes: 250lb/person
    paddle boards: 200lb/person




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Trip Cost
Prices are per vessel and include vessel, paddles, life jackets, return shuttle, and safety brief


* The trip is based on the distance of 2 miles. The time it takes to cover 2 miles will fluctuate.
At regular water level 2 hours is plenty of time to explore and paddle around while covering the 2 miles.
At higher water level the current is stronger and it can take around an hour to cover the 2 miles.



Video Trailer







Easy Paddle
Kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding river trip


Enjoy a 2-mile downstream float on the flat, slow moving waters of the Cape Fear River. Go over a refreshing Class I rapid and maneuver around river boulders in a rock garden in the last stretch of the trip before the exit ramp. Plenty of leaping fish, wading herons, and circling birds-of-prey await you on this satisfying little river trip. Beginners at canoeing and kayaking will enjoy this trip, as well as seasoned paddlers looking for a quieter sort of excursion. Take up to 2 hours on this stretch of the river. We’ll pick you up at the take-out and bring you back to the starting point in Lillington.


Things to know before you go!

Expect to encounter other kayakers, canoers and tubers on this section of the river, especially on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This is the same section of the river that Lazy River Tubing takes place on. For more secluded river sections opt out for Hourly Rentals or 10 Mile Challenge.



What to wear

  • Dress for the weather with layered clothing if necessary, and expect to get wet.
  • Wear long sleeves or opt out for sunscreen.
  • Bathing suit is a great option in warmer months, but don't forget sunscreen!
  • Paddling booties or water shoes are great! You can also wear old gym shoes, or strap-on sandals, but no flip-flops!
  • Any hat is recommended.

What to bring

  • Bring plenty of water! Plan on taking one 12oz bottle of water per person per river hour. Absolutely no glass containers!
  • Sunscreen, unless you are wearing protective clothing
  • Nutritious snacks or a full lunch, especially for longer trips. You can easily fit a mid-sized coolers in our 16’ Old Town canoes. Small, insulated fabric coolers may be strapped to the back of our kayaks or paddle boards.
  • At least one phone per group.
  • Optional spare clothes for after the trip. We have changing rooms and spray showers available.
  • Water toys, cameras, speakers, etc.



Picture Gallery

Trip F.A.Q.

We strongly recommend making online reservations! It allows you to complete all the required paperwork online and it will speed up your check-in! That's also the only way we can guarantee the equipment you need.
IF YOU MUST CANCEL or reschedule your activity, please contact us at least 48-hours before your scheduled activity with your request. There are no fees to reschedule, and you are entitled to 100% refund, given the request is made at least 48-hours prior to the activity. No changes are allowed, and no refunds will be issued less than 48-hours prior to the scheduled activity.
IF WE MUST CANCEL your activity due to unfavorable water conditions or severe weather, we will reschedule the activity at your convenience without any penalties, either by offering a different activity or a different date. If you are unable to reschedule, you can request a full refund.
3 years old and up.
250lb per person for any kayak or canoe; 220lb for paddle board
We promote healthy living and healthy enjoyment of the great outdoors! Alcohol is not recommended to have an amazing time on the river, however if you must… Responsible, moderate consumption is strongly enforced. All North Carolina and Waterways laws apply and are closely monitored by local and Wildlife Law Enforcement. ABSOLUTELY NO GLASS CONTAINERS OR LIQUOR, it's one of the state laws!
You have to have at least one 18 year old individual in your party out on the water. Anyone else under 18 must have consent from a parent or legal guardian.
We offer 10% off for groups 12-23 people and 20% off for groups of 24+ people ONLY if reservation is made and paid online at least 48 hours before the trip. Contact us via phone or email to request a large group discount code that we set up just for your group. You can make as many separate online reservations as needed depending on how many people are paying. Be sure to complete waiver forms online!
Yes! We offer 10% discount for military, EMS, Fire, Police and Teachers. Use Promo Code "service" when making your online reservations. Be sure to have your military or relevant ID when checking in.
No, the trip is limited to the take-out at a 2 mile mark.
Yes, we do! We accept all major credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
There are no gators or sharks, but there are water snakes. They are mostly non-aggressive type, but we ask you to respect wildlife and keep your distance. Checking your surroundings while on water goes a long way. Any incidents with wildlife are extremely rare and generally it is a unique experience to spot any wildlife while out on the river!
Dogs are allowed but not recommended. If your furry friend has never been in a boat, you might find yourself fighting to keep your pup onboard instead of enjoying the day ;) Only dogs with prior boating experience are allowed on 10 Mile Challenge and Epic Overnight.
1 person per single kayak; 2 people in tandem kayaks; 1 person per paddle board (SUP). 2 adults and up to 2 small kids per canoe (total weight of kid(s) should not exceed 100lb). No riders in canoe on 10 Mile Challenge or Epic Overnight. Canoes have only 2 seats, kids sit on the bottom of canoe.
Canoes have plenty of storage. You can bring a cooler, backpack or other accessories. Kayaks however, have more limited storage. A smaller backpack or small cooler will fit ok, but not much more than that.
Maybe! The river is an unpredictable environment and there is always a possibility of capsizing. You must be prepared for it, dress and gear up accordingly.
Absolutely! We'll be happy to get you started on your paddling career!
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