Whitewater kayaker with Cape Fear River Adventures in Class III rapids near Lillington, NC

Whitewater Kayaking

  • Activities

    Guided whitewater kayaking

  • Duration

    10 miles; average 3 hours on water but varies based on water level

  • River features

    several miles of flat water; several up to Class III rapids the second part of the trip

  • Skill level

    prior paddling experience required

  • Age

    12+

  • Weight limit

    kayaks: 250lb/person




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Trip Cost Prices are per person



Video Trailer







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.

  • Several miles of flat water

    Depending on the water level there will be up to Class III rapids, but there is also several miles of flat water before the section with rapids.



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



Picture Gallery

Trip F.A.Q.

Yes, the reservations are required for guided activities.
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.
12 years old and up.
250lb per person for any kayak or canoe; 220lb for paddle board
No! Alcohol is not allowed on this particular trip.
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.
The trip can be ended early only at a 2-mile mark. After that you are committed to 8 more river miles before the next take-out.
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 not allowed on this trip.
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.
No! This is a very demanding trip. We require for you to have prior paddling experience and be a good swimmer. We'll teach you about navigating rapids.
Yes indeed! There are many dangers and unpredictable situations that you may encounter; however, our guides will do their best to steer you away from those dangers!
We use sit-on-top self bailing whitewater kayaks, Dagger Roam 9.5
Yes! You must feel very comfortable in water and able to swim at least 50 yards.
No! You will use a sit-on-top whitewater kayak with nothing that can hold you down or trap you! Sit-on-top kayaks do not use skirts.
We go as a group. It can be a mix of kayaks and whitewater rafts. There is always guide(s) that goes with the group.
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