Whitewater Kayaking
Whitewater Kayaking
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It is dangerous!
River is an uncontrolled wilderness environment! At higher water level there are numerous dangers that can harm you or be life threatening.
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Must be able to swim!
You must be able to swim and feel very comfortable in water.
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Prior paddling and whitewater experience strongly suggested!
We ask you to have prior paddling experience and some experience in whitewater even if it was a rafting trip.
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Good physical shape
You must be in good physical shape. In particular, we ask you to be able to pull yourself up on a kayak in moving water in case of capsizing.
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We are in Central NC...
We are in Central NC where Piedmont meets Coastal Plain - one of the reasons we have rapids in this area. Depending on the water level there will be Class II+ or even Class III rapids, but there is also several miles of flat water paddling before the section with rapids starts.
Whitewater Kayaking
Guided whitewater kayaking river trip
Enjoy several miles of calm water in a secluded environment before entering the biggest rock garden of the entire Cape Fear River. Go through some Class II, II+ and possible III rapids (depends on the water level) in the second part of the trip. Get a glimpse of a soaring Bald Eagle or Great Blue Heron as you paddle on remote section of the Cape Fear. Use one of our sit-on-top self-bailing whitewater kayaks. Enjoy the thrill of whitewater kayaking while practicing your skills with a guide along your side.
Please note: Whitewater kayaking on the Cape Fear River is possible only at particular water levels, making it only occasional service that we offer. Typically, we see appropriate water levels in spring; however, sometimes the water will be high enough during other seasons. We announce when we are running rafts on social media and right here on our home page. You can reserve your spot in advance and we will contact you as soon as the river conditions are acceptable. Otherwise, this is a first come first serve option based on river conditions that day.
Things to know before you go!
-
It is dangerous!
River is an uncontrolled wilderness environment! At higher water level there are numerous dangers that can harm you or be life threatening.
-
Must be able to swim!
You must be able to swim and feel very comfortable in moving water.
-
Prior paddling and whitewater experience strongly suggested!
This is not a beginner's trip! We ask you to have prior paddling experience and some experience in whitewater.
-
Must be able to perform self-recovery
In the very beginning of the trip we ask you to capsize and than climb back in your kayak from deep, moving water. We do this exercise at least twice. You must be in good physical shape to be able to perform the recovery! If you are unable to perform self-recovery, or if our guides finds your paddling or recovery not sufficient, we will end your trip short at a 2-mile mark, for safety reasons.
-
We are in Central NC...
We are in Central NC where Piedmont meets Coastal Plain - one of the reasons we have rapids in this area! Depending on the water level there will be Class II+ or even Class III rapids, but there is also several miles of flat water paddling before the section with rapids starts.
What to wear
- Dress for the weather with layered clothing if necessary, and expect to get wet.
- Wet suit or splash jackets might be required in colder months; they are available for rent.
- 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.
- Spare clothes