Guided River Trips

Guided kayaking and paddle boarding trips on the Cape Fear River are exciting adventures that allows you to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of North Carolina while having a support from an experienced guide near you. We offer 3 options to choose from: 2-hour paddle boarding, 2-hour kayaking, or 10-mile kayaking trips.

Guided Trips Schedule and Reservations

Paddle Boarding: 2-hour Guided Trip

Your 2-hour guided paddle board trip on the Cape Fear River will begin with a safety briefing by our experienced and knowledgeable guide. They will provide you with basic instructions on how to properly paddle board, ensuring that you feel confident and comfortable on the water. Life jackets will be provided for your safety throughout the trip. Your guide will lead you on a leisurely paddle along the river, pointing out interesting landmarks and sharing facts about the area's history, ecology, and wildlife. You may spot ospreys soaring overhead, turtles sunbathing on logs, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a majestic bald eagle perched on a tree branch. During your 2-hour guided paddle board trip, there will be opportunities to stop and take breaks at scenic spots along the river. You can relax, stretch, and enjoy some snacks while taking in the breathtaking vistas around you.

Kayaking: 2-hour Guided Trip

This 2-hour guided kayaking trip starts at the ramp and goes out for 1.5 miles to a rock garden, which is a great place to stop for a break, cool off in a water, or eat a snack. You then turn around and paddle back to the starting point for a total of 3 river miles. Cruise along serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and historic landmarks. Learn about the river's rich history and receive paddling guidance from a knowledgeable guide. Spot wildlife like ospreys, herons, and red-eared sliders. Relax and take in the natural beauty of this iconic North Carolina river.

Kayaking: 10-mile Guided Trip

Our guided kayaking trip will take you on a scenic and invigorating 10-mile journey through the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of this historic river in North Carolina. This 10-mile journey starts at our ramp in Lillington and ends 10 miles downstream by the Hwy 217 bridge in Erwin, NC; we call it "10 Mile Challenge"! Paddle with a guide who will provide assistance with paddling techniques, navigating rapids, and recognizing dangers. In addition, the guide will also point out historic marks, river features, wildlife and local vegetations. Get shuttled back to the shop at the end of the trip. This activity might last 5-6 hours on water, in addition to the time needed to check-in, get outfitted, and shuttled.

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 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.