Paddle Sports

The NC Triad is rich with lakes and rivers, making our region a paddle sports paradise full of kayak, canoe, or paddleboard opportunities. Here you are right in the middle of three state designated blueway/water trails (Dan River, Deep River, and Yadkin River), the 50-mile Haw River paddle trail, and many other tributaries feeding into these major rivers.

Rivers

The Yadkin River is the longest designated paddle trail in the NC Triad with over 163 miles of river and 17 public launch sites exclusively for paddlers. Stop along the route to camp or have a picnic lunch at one of the numerous parks, including Pilot Mountain State Park. In Surry County, the Ararat, Fisher, and Mitchell Rivers also offer numerous paddle access sites that flow down to the Yadkin River.

The Dan River flows for 90 miles throughout the Triad and offers paddling opportunities from a leisurely float to Class I-III rapids. Access points are plentiful throughout the region, and the Dan is sure to flow no matter the weather. Both the Smith River and the Mayo River in Rockingham County flow into the Dan River, adding several more access sites in Mayodan and Eden.

The Haw River is another 50-mile paddling trail through Alamance County that allows paddlers to experience the natural beauty of the Piedmont region. Fourteen paddle access points provide access to the entire length of the Haw, which is sure to amaze both novices and veterans.

The Deep River is the shortest of our paddling trails, as it is still in development as both a land and water trail.  Paddlers can access the river in both Randleman and Ramseur in Randolph County.  High Point City Lake and Randleman Lake also offer paddling spots with kayak rentals in the headwaters of the Deep River.

Lakes

The Eastern area of our region offers numerous paddling opportunities on one of our many lakes. Graham-Mebane Lake is a 650-acre source for recreation, the lake provides a lush, tree-lined setting for your favorite paddle sports. Burlington’s Lake Mackintosh has over 61 miles of shoreline to enjoy as you paddle before enjoying a picnic area and playground for the perfect outdoor afternoon or evening.

Greensboro is home to Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend, and Lake Higgins perfect for boating and fishing with rowboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes available to rent.