NC Trails - Great State Trails Coalition

Celebrate N.C. State Trails: Paddle the French Broad Trail
2024-09-21 10:30 - 15:00 UTC | NC
Come float the headwaters of the French Broad River with Headwaters Outfitters, MountainTrue, and local partners in celebration of North Carolina being the Great Trails State. The French Broad River was designated a North Carolina State Trail in 1987, and officially launched as the French Broad Paddle Trail by MountainTrue and RiverLink in 2012. MountainTrue is the North Carolina State Parks Partner Organization for the French Broad River State Trail and leads watershed-wide Paddle Trail efforts through its French Broad Riverkeeper program based in Asheville.
While the French Broad Paddle Trail flows for over 140 miles in both North Carolina and Tennessee, the upper sections in Transylvania County have become especially popular due to the plentiful access, calm water, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This float will experience all of these factors as we travel from the river’s beginnings in Rosman to Headwaters Outfitters’ Hannah Ford Campground, a distance of 8 miles and approximately 3 hours. Before the float, we’ll briefly discuss the river’s history, its present status, and future plans for the Paddle Trail. After the float there’s the option to attend the annual “Paddle to the Pork Bluegrass Festival” happening at Hannah Ford Campground or be shuttled back to your car.
Participants should have prior paddling experience and be comfortable navigating their boat of choice in moving water. Boats and gear can be rented from Headwaters Outfitters, or you’re welcome to bring your own. We will have lunch along the river, so plan to pack your own or reserve a catered option (see “Tickets”).
There are several signup options for this event:

Canoe rental (2 adults) — $45
Single kayak (1 adult) — $45
Tandem kayak (2 people per boat) — $45
Shuttle fee (for people with their own boat) — $25
Paddle to Pork Bluegrass Festival — $10
Packed lunch — $15

To make a reservation, go here. To receive additional information about this event, please secure a free ticket. As the event nears, we will send you more information about the trip, including suggested dress, weather forecast and more specifics on how the day will unfold.
We hope you’ll join us for a beautiful start to autumn here on the French Broad River in Transylvania County.
Feel free to reach out to Jack Henderson, MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, at jack@mountaintrue.org with any questions.

Fall Float on the French Broad Paddle Trail
2024-09-21 10:30 - 15:00
Come float the headwaters of the French Broad River with Headwaters Outfitters, MountainTrue, and local partners in celebration of North Carolina being the Great Trails State.
While the French Broad Paddle Trail flows for over 140 miles in both North Carolina and Tennessee, the upper sections in Transylvania County have become especially popular due to the plentiful access, calm water, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This float will experience all of these factors as we travel from the river’s beginnings in Rosman to Headwaters Outfitters’ Hannah Ford Campground, a distance of 8 miles and approximately 3 hours. Before the float, we’ll present some light programming to cover the history, present status, and future plans for the Paddle Trail, and afterward – there’s an option to attend the annual “Paddle to the Pork Bluegrass Festival” happening at Hannah Ford Campground or be shuttled back to your car and head into Brevard for an evening of your choosing.
Participants should have prior paddling experience and be comfortable navigating their boat of choice in moving water. Boats and gear can be rented from Headwaters Outfitters, or you’re welcome to bring your own. Lunch will be eaten along the river, so plan to pack your own or reserve a catered option.
We hope you’ll join us for a beautiful start to autumn here on the French Broad River in Transylvania County.
Click this link for ticket options and to book your trip: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/headwatersoutfitters/items/544504/availability/1448057332/book/?flow=no&full-items=yes

Tails on Trails at the Smith River Greenway!
2024-09-20 18:00 - 19:30
Bring your friends and leashed pups! This hike series will focus on dog-friendly hikes in Rockingham County and responsible stewardship practices for dog owners.
We will hike the Smith River Greenway on September 20th at 6 pm.
We will meet at the trailhead shelter. A DRBA flag will be out to direct people! There will be light refreshments and puppy snacks.
This hike will be approximately 1.5 miles and is considered beginner-friendly and accessible due to the crushed gravel path and grade. You will need to sign a waiver.
Link to the Google map directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YS8AGXmeC8X6JBBYA

Guided Hike at Ridge's Mountain
2024-09-20 16:30 - 18:30
Explore a unique landscape in the Uwharrie Mountains with Piedmont Land Conservancy. This guided hike will be led by PLC’s Conservation Advisor Dr. Ken Bridle. Note that Ridges Mountain is not open to the public. PLC has reserved this group hike through the NC Zoo.
We will be hiking somewhere between 2 to 3 miles. Some of this hike will be on an old road, some trail, and some off trail through the woods. This hike is considered moderate to strenuous. There will be an opportunity to explore the big rocks at your own risk.
The guided hike will pass by a few upland pools. Upland Pools are rare, isolated wetlands in upland settings, with water deep enough to prevent the formation of a forest canopy across the basin. Water stands well into the growing season, though it often dries by the end of summer. These pools are breeding habitat for several amphibians.
The crowning feature of Ridges Mountain is the boulders (some are as high as 50 feet) located within the Monadnock Forest at the top that provide great viewing locations of the surrounding Randolph County.
Originally established in 2000 with a PLC and NC Zoo partnership, the preserve just grew again with as the NC Zoo added an addition 139 acres, making the preserve 423 acres in total! Read more in this press release.
The group will leave from the parking area at 4:30pm. An exact address and directions will be emailed to you upon registration.
The outing is open to the public but has a limit of 25 participants.

Celebrate N.C. State Trails with a hike on the Wilderness Gateway State Trail
2024-09-14 14:30 - 16:30
Join us for a day of exploring two of North Carolina’s 14 State Trails; this is the second of our State Trails doubleheader (see below for details on the first).
The Wilderness Gateway State Trail is one of the most recent additions to the North Carolina State Trails system – so new that it doesn’t yet exist. But N.C. State Parks and the Foothills Conservancy, the nonprofit administering the trail, have a pretty good idea of where it will go as it links the Hickory area with South Mountains State Park and Chimney Rock State Park; the 4 miles we will hike at the Clear Creek Access to South Mountains State Park is a good representation of what the Wilderness Gateway State Trail will be like.
On this hike, we will hike 1.5 miles out on the Clear Creek Trail, then return and hike a mile on the Lake View Trail. The former will give you a sense of the elevation gains in the area, the latter circles a mountain lake.

Difficulty: The Clear Creek portion of the hike is moderate to moderately strenuous, the Lake View portion moderate.
Distance: 4.2 miles
Estimated hike time: 2 hours
What to wear: We will email you the day before the event advising of weather conditions for the day and how to best dress for the hike.
What to bring: Bring at least one bottle of water (1 liter), preferably two. And bring snacks.
Rest stop: We will take a short break at the midpoint.

We will meet in the gravel parking lot at the trailhead.
About the Wilderness Gateway State Trail: The vision for the Wilderness Gateway State Trail rests on three pillars: conservation, recreation, and tourism. The trail will protect and conserve riparian and other important habitats and serve as an ecological corridor between larger tracts of natural lands. It will create pathways and walkable downtowns in more urban areas to provide safe and pleasant recreation and exercise opportunities where people live and work. Finally, by creating recreational opportunities with access to scenic wilderness and connections to multiple downtowns, the trail will attract visitors from all areas of North Carolina and beyond. For more on the trail visit the NC Trails website here.
This is the second of two State Trails hikes planned for Saturday, Sept. 14, in Burke County. For information on the morning hike, at Lake James State Park on the Fonta Flora State Trail, go here.

Celebrate N.C. State Trails with a hike on the Wildertness Gateway State Trail
2024-09-14 09:30 - 12:00

Lake Higgins Sunset Paddle
2024-09-09 17:30 - 20:00
Greensboro’s watershed lakes are one of the best sunset spots in the area! Enjoy a paddle with other PLC members and friends for a relaxing evening on Lake Higgins led by Jennifer Phelps of Greensboro Parks and Recreation. The lake is usually closed on Monday evenings but will be opened just for our group.
The marina has a total of 10 solo kayaks and 5 tandem kayaks available for rent. You are also welcome to bring your own kayak or canoe. Please reserve the option you’d like to rent in the registration process.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: This paddle has limited space so sign-up soon: https://www.piedmontland.org/events-and-outings/

Lake Brandt Sunset Paddle
2024-08-27 17:30 - 20:00
Greensboro’s watershed lakes are one of the best sunset spots in the area! Enjoy a paddle with other PLC members and friends for a relaxing evening on Lake Brandt led by Jennifer Phelps of Greensboro Parks and Recreation. The lake is usually closed on Tuesday evenings but will be opened just for our group.
The marina has a total of 10 solo kayaks and 5 tandem kayaks available for rent. You are also welcome to bring your own kayak or canoe. Please reserve the option you’d like to rent in the registration process.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: This paddle has limited space so sign-up soon: https://www.piedmontland.org/events-and-outings/

Kayak Safety Class at Farmer Lake!
2024-08-27 17:30 - 19:30
Beginner Friendly
Must register online prior to event. If registering from this Facebook event page, click “Tickets” and fill out registration. You will receive an auto generated confirmation.No registrations at the water, no exceptions.
1.5 Hours
Join Outdoor Women and Dan River Basin Association to learn the basics of kayaking; technique and safety to minimize chance of injury and have more FUN!No experience necessary.14 yrs. and up, Co-ed
Taught by American Canoe Association Certified Kayak Instructor.

Cost: free but if you sign up please make the commitment to be there otherwise it is taking a valuable spot that someone else would love to have!This safety class is funded by a grant that DRBA secured to empower and educate our watershed paddlers and want to be paddlers about things you need to know before heading out!
The exact launch location will be emailed out to participants a few days prior. This class will be held on Farmer Lake in Caswell County.

What to Bring
– Water in a reusable, sealable bottle (no single-use plastic please!)– Sunscreen if needed– Hat– Sunglasses– Insect repellent if needed– Closed-toed shoes that can get wet and muddy (old sneakers are fine, no flip flops or strappy sandals with no toe box)– Snack
*If you do not have an appropriate kayak, PFD, paddle, we will provide this for you but you must sign up as using ours.*If you have your own kayak it is best you use it so you know how it will perform and allow those without a kayak to utilize ours. Appropriate kayak for this event is a sit inside or sit on top 10ft-14ft. of good qualityFour participants are required to run the event, with a max of 10 people.

Weather Policy: If we have to cancel at the water due to extreme weather, we will make all efforts for the event to be rescheduled, or participants moved to another date that has availability.

Questions? Email me jo@outdoorwomenbyjp.com

Kayak Safety Class at Mayo Lake!
2024-08-20 17:30 - 19:30
Beginner Friendly
Must register online prior to event. If registering from this Facebook event page, click “Tickets” and fill out registration. You will receive an auto generated confirmation.No registrations at the water, no exceptions.
1.5 Hours
Join Outdoor Women and Dan River Basin Association to learn the basics of kayaking; technique and safety to minimize chance of injury and have more FUN! No experience necessary.14 yrs. and up, Co-ed

Taught by American Canoe Association Certified Kayak Instructor.

Cost: free but if you sign up please make the commitment to be there otherwise it is taking a valuable spot that someone else would love to have!This safety class if funded by a grant that DRBA secured to empower and educate our watershed paddlers and want to be paddlers about things you need to know before heading out!

The exact launch location will be emailed out to participants a few days prior. This class will be held on on Mayo Lake in Person County.
What to Bring
– Water in a reusable, sealable bottle (no single-use plastic please!)– Sunscreen if needed– Hat– Sunglasses– Insect repellent if needed– Closed-toed shoes that can get wet and muddy (old sneakers are fine, no flip flops or strappy sandals with no toe box)– Snack
*If you do not have an appropriate kayak, PFD, paddle, we will provide this for you but you must sign up as using ours.*If you have your own kayak it is best you use it so you know how it will perform and allow those without a kayak to utilize ours. Appropriate kayak for this event is a sit inside or sit on top 10ft-14ft. of good qualityFour participants are required to run the event, with a max of 10 people.

Weather Policy: If we have to cancel at the water due to extreme weather, we will make all efforts for the event to be rescheduled, or participants moved to another date that has availability.

Questions? Email me jo@outdoorwomenbyjp.com

Celebrate N.C. State Trails: Hike the Haw River Trail
2024-08-17 15:30 - 17:00
The Haw River Trail corridor runs 80 miles, from just north of Greensboro southeast to its conclusion in Jordan Lake. It’s boulder-strewn waters give the impression of a mountain river while its flora-choked banks are almost junglelike in spots. It’s perhaps the wildest experience to be had in the Piedmont.
Join the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Hometown Strong initiative for a celebration of the Haw by both land and water on August 17 in Saxapahaw. The day begins with a paddle on a dammed portion of the Haw, known as Lake Saxapahaw, from 1-3 p.m., followed by this 3-mile hike from 3:30 – 5 p.m.
The hike will begin just outside the Haw River Ballroom. We will hike the Haw River Trail 1.5 miles downstream on surprisingly smooth trail that defies the rocky river on your right, the lush wall of green on your left (save for a short stretch near the turnaround that passes a meadow).
This is an easy hike that’s dog-friendly (leashed-dog friendly). We will take a mellow pace, stopping to check out the Haw along the way. After the hike, stick around for Saturdays in Saxapahaw, live outdoor music from 6-8 p.m. More specific directions to trailhead will be provided shortly before the event.

Celebrate N.C. State Trails: Paddle the Haw River Trail
2024-08-17 13:00 - 15:00
The Haw River Trail runs 80 miles, from just north of Greensboro southeast to its conclusion in Jordan Lake. It’s boulder-strewn waters give the impression of a mountain river while its flora-choked banks are junglelike in spots. It’s perhaps the wildest experience to be had in the Piedmont.
Join the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Hometown Strong initiative for a celebration of the Haw by both land and water on August 17 in Saxapahaw. The day begins with a paddle on a dammed portion of the Haw, known as Lake Saxapahaw, from 1-3 p.m. It’s followed by this 3-mile hike from 3:30 – 5 p.m. (see separate sign-up). We’ll cap the day with Saturdays in Saxapahaw, live outdoor music from 6-8 p.m.

Paddle the Dan River in Stokes County- August FSO
2024-08-03 09:00 - 14:00
DRBA’s August 3, 2024, First Saturday Outing will be a 5-mile paddle trip on the Dan River in Stokes County from the Pitzer Road Fishing Access to Hemlock Golf Course Access coordinated by Will Truslow. Meet by 9:00 a.m. at the Pitzer Road Fishing Access to set shuttle.

History of the Dan River

History and legend abound on this section of the river, which is characterized by high bluffs forested with hardwoods and stands of stately hemlock trees. About half a mile below Snow Creek is Thompson’s Fish Dam, which has remnants of a rare wooden slat trap. According to “An Insider’s Guide to the Dan River,” a “heavy timber frame, about eight feet square, formed a grid of slats” to trap fish channeled into the trap by a vee-shaped low rock wall. At least two branches of the Great Wagon Road forded the river at shoals on this section, and caves are said to have been used by Confederate draft dodgers.
Rock formations and uncommon Carolina hemlock stands have received recognition as the Dan River Cliffs natural heritage area. According to Truslow, “This section of the Dan has the last of the really high bluffs before the river winds on into the Piedmont. Some are about 150 feet high.” The most spectacular is Davis Bluff, a dramatic rock face on river left where huge boulders lie in the water at the base of the cliff. Legend says that a member of the Davis family fell to his death from the road on top. To this day, the cliff is known as Mount Horrible.

About the Paddle

The Dan River in this section is rated mostly as Class 1, but the remains of a former Duke Power dam, dynamited in 1975, create a sometimes challenging Class 2 rapid. Fortunately, it is located within sight of the take-out ramp at Hemlock Golf Course.
Meet by 9:00 am at the Pitzer Road Access. Arrange to supply boat, paddles, life jackets, water and lunch; wear water-shedding artificial fabric or wool (not cotton, and certainly not blue jeans); and provide a back-up change of clothing. All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. DRBA’s First Saturday Outings are free and open to the public. For more information, contact trip coordinator, Will Truslow through email at willtruslow@hotmail.com.
Rentals will be available in ADVANCE through the Dan River Company. Please contact by phone at (336)593-BOAT. The pick-up location may vary from the starting point.

DIRECTIONS:
Directions to: Pitzer Road Fishing Access, Walnut Cove. GPS: 36.402403, -80.145994https://maps.app.goo.gl/DRJKgCc8JweXrWHy6
From Greensboro or Winston-Salem: Go through Walnut Cove on US 311 and continue north on NC 89 towards Danbury. In about 5 miles, turn right/straight onto Dodgetown Rd. (where NC 8 enters from the left).Go about 3-4 miles, cross the Dan River, taking a left on Pitzer Rd. Access is on left in about ½ mile.
From the Martinsville area: Go south on US 220 into NC and take the NC 770 exit and go right (west). Follow 770 to the NC 704 intersection and turn left onto 704. Then take the first right, onto Delta Church Rd. Follow this road for several miles and the road changes name to Sheppard’s Mill Rd. Turn left onto Pitzer Rd where Priddy’s Country Store is on the right. Go 2 miles to find the access on the right.

Please visit www.danriver.org by 5:00 pm, Friday, August 2, 2024 to determine if weather or other issue prevents the outing to be held.
Outings and meetings of the Dan River Basin Association are open to the public without charge. For more information, please visit www.danriver.org

Intro to Rivers on the Dan River
2024-08-02 10:00 - 14:00
Learn Basic River Safety in Kayaks!
Must register online prior to event. If registering from this Facebook event page, click “Tickets” and fill out registration. You will receive an auto generated confirmation.No registrations at the water, no exceptions.
2 Hours

Join Outdoor Women and Dan River Basin Association for this important class on flat, moving water up to Class I rivers.We go over basic river safety, strokes.Recreational boats with open cockpits or sit on tops are used. Taught by American Canoe Association Certified Kayak Instructor.We will do a short section of the Dan in Eden, NC.
NOT APPROPRIATE for first time ever kayakers but is appropriate for those who have paddled before either on flat water or rivers, preferably with some prior strokes instruction.
Due to the nature of rivers and unexpected and unpredictable accesses, you must be able to get down to the river (sometimes steep and muddy, sometimes multiple up to 20 steep steps) on your own physical power (we do assist one another carrying boats), enter and exit your kayak on your own power.
14 yrs. and up, Co-ed
Cost: free but if you sign up please make the commitment to be there otherwise it is taking a valuable spot that someone else would love to have!This safety class is funded by grants that DRBA secured to empower and educate our watershed paddlers and want to be paddlers about things you need to know before heading out!
The exact launch location will be emailed out to participants a few days prior.

What to Bring– Water in a reusable, sealable bottle (no single-use plastic please!)– Sunscreen if needed– Hat– Sunglasses– Insect repellent if needed– Closed-toed shoes that can get wet and muddy (old sneakers are fine, no flip flops or strappy sandals with no toe box)– Snack
– No loose fitting clothing– No straps or strings hanging from you or your clothing– Water in a reusable and sealable bottle-if using your boat/gear pfd must have whistle attached (use an easy break away attachment point, no long lanyards or cordage)*If you do not have an appropriate kayak, PFD, paddle, we will provide this for you but you must sign up as using ours.*If you have your own kayak it is best you use it so you know how it will perform and allow those without a kayak to utilize ours. Appropriate kayak for this event is a sit inside or sit on top recreational kayak of good qualityFour participants are required to run the event, with a max of 8 people.

Weather Policy: If we have to cancel at the water due to extreme weather, we will make all efforts for the event to be rescheduled, or participants moved to another date that has availability.

Questions? Email me jo@outdoorwomenbyjp.com

Celebrate North Carolina's State Trails with a Weekend on the Dan River
2024-08-01 12:00 - 2024-08-03 18:30
The Dan River straddles the North Carolina/Virginia state line for 214 miles; the stretch in North Carolina, in Stokes, Rockingham and Caswell counties, constitutes the Dan River State Trail. Join us Aug. 1 – 3 for three days of exploring and celebrating the Dan River State Trail. Secure a ticket and you will be updated when additional details are available for the following events:
Thursday, Aug. 1
Noon – 1 p.m. — Lunch with Dan River Basin Association webinar on the history of the Dan. In partnership with the Museum and Archives of Rockingham County (MARC). Register for the event and get the webinar link here.
7 p.m. — River Trivia at the River Club in Madision.
Friday, Aug. 2
5:30 p.m. — Kayak River Safety Paddle on the Dan in Eden. Conducted by Outdoor Women by Jo. Rentals available. Register here.
Evening, times TBD — Park and Play at Madison River Park in Madison; downtown events in Mayodan and Eden.
Saturday, Aug. 3
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — DRBA First Saturday Outing on the Dan River in Stokes County. Free shuttle. Rentals available. Learn more here.
10 a.m. — Dan River Flotilla by MadTown Tubing, Madison
1 p.m. — Social hour at the Green Heron on the Dan River in Danbury

Gateway to Nature
2024-08-01 10:00 - 2024-09-20 15:00
The Gateway to Nature show is a competition with photos taken on the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail over the past 2 years. It also features a show and competition of nature paintings and photos. All pictures will be judged by a professional artist and ribbons and cash prizes will be given in two different shows. Take in of all the art and photos begins on August 2, 3, & 4, and the show starts on Aug. 7 and continues to Sept. 20. The Southern Arts Society and the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail go together to put on this show. Website is southernartsociety.org and kmgatewaytrail.org

Walk & Talk: Geology along the Deep River and Central Piedmont
2024-07-27 09:00 - 12:00
Come out for a walk along the Deep River State Trail with Barry Nelson, Chief Geologist and President of Northwest Geoscience, a geotechnical and environmental firm.
Take a walk with us from 9 am until noon on Saturday, July 27. The event will start and finish at the Deep River Folk School located at 282 Rising Sun Way, Franklinville, NC.
This is a walk and talk event looking at the geology of the Central Carolina Piedmont along the Deep River State Trail and the Deep River. The walk will be approximately 2 miles and will in be in partial shade.
The outing is open to the public but has a limit of 25 participants. Sign up soon and come eager to learn!

Kayak Safety Class at Hyco Lake!
2024-07-23 17:30 - 19:30
Beginner Friendly
Must register online prior to event. If registering from this Facebook event page, click “Tickets” and fill out registration. You will receive an auto generated confirmation.No registrations at the water, no exceptions.
1.5 Hours
Join Outdoor Women and Dan River Basin Association to learn the basics of kayaking; technique and safety to minimize chance of injury and have more FUN!No experience necessary.14 yrs. and upCo-ed
Taught by American Canoe Association Certified Kayak Instructor.
Cost: free but if you sign up please make the commitment to be there otherwise it is taking a valuable spot that someone else would love to have!This safety class is funded by a grant that DRBA secured to empower and educate our watershed paddlers and want to be paddlers about things you need to know before heading out!
The exact launch location will be emailed out to participants a few days prior. This class will be held on on Hyco Lake.
What to Bring
– Water in a reusable, sealable bottle (no single-use plastic please!)– Sunscreen if needed– Hat– Sunglasses– Insect repellent if needed– Closed-toed shoes that can get wet and muddy (old sneakers are fine, no flip flops or strappy sandals with no toe box)– Snack
*If you do not have an appropriate kayak, PFD, paddle, we will provide this for you but you must sign up as using ours.*If you have your own kayak it is best you use it so you know how it will perform and allow those without a kayak to utilize ours. Appropriate kayak for this event is a sit inside or sit on top 10ft-14ft. of good qualityFour participants are required to run the event, with a max of 10 people.
Weather Policy: If we have to cancel at the water due to extreme weather, we will make all efforts for the event to be rescheduled, or participants moved to another date that has availability.

Questions? Email me jo@outdoorwomenbyjp.com

Lake Norman State Park Adaptive Kayaking
2024-07-23 09:30 - 12:30
Enjoy the fun and serenity of Lake Norman State Park all while being part of a supportive community. This outdoor kayaking program is accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities.You can participate thanks to a variety of adaptive kayaking equipment and instruction designed to meet your individual needs. Our highly trained staff will instruct, support, and encourage you as you meet new people and learn new skills or further develop your existing ones. Lake Norman is the largest man made lake in the Carolinas. The section of lake you will be paddling on, by the visitor center, is a quiet and peaceful location. There are no motorized boats allowed on this section of lake making for flat, calm waters.
Cost per participant is $20. However please do not let the cost discourage you from joining us. Scholarships are available for those who need it. If a scholarship accommodation is needed, please reach out.
Any questions?
Please contact Waypoint Adventure NC if you have any questions.

Phone:
828-483-3383
Email:
rcarlson@waypointadventure.org

Celebrate North Carolina's State Trails with a Paddle on the Yadkin River
2024-07-20 10:00 - 17:00
Crater Park in Elkin offers a floating dock to assist with launching, and a pleasant float down to the confluence of the Yadkin and Mitchell rivers. After the paddle, we will take out at Burch Station and walk (15 minutes) or ride up to Carolina Heritage Winery to enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, beer or non-alcoholic beverage and live music. Freshly cooked food will be available for purchase as well.
Need a boat? No problem. Kayaks are available for rent. To purchase tickets for this event, go to the Yadkin Riverkeeper website, here.

Crater Park to Carolina Heritage Vineyard paddle
2024-07-20 10:00 - 17:00
Mark your calendars for our annual Carolina Heritage Vineyard paddle on Saturday, July 20th!
Crater Park in Elkin offers a floating dock to assist with launching, and a pleasant float down to the confluence of the Yadkin and Mitchell rivers. After the paddle, we will take out at Burch Station and walk (15 minutes) or ride up to Carolina Heritage Winery to enjoy a complimentary wine tasting, beer or non-alcoholic beverage and live music. Freshly cooked food will be available for purchase as well.
Register here: https://www.yadkinriverkeeper.org/events/2023/7/15/crater-park-to-carolina-heritage-vineyard-2024
Price: $70 – paddle ticket with boat rental, or $45 – paddle ticket without boat rental (bring your own boat)

Pollinator Mingle - Piedmont Land Conservancy
2024-07-19 10:00 - 11:30
Spend the morning with The Emily Allen Wildflower Preserve pollinators and landscape designer Susan Andrews, recent awardee of the Emily H. Allen Award for Landscape Design using Native Plant Materials from the Native Plant Society!
The EAWP Pollinator Garden was planted by EAWP volunteers in the fall of 2022 with the help of generous donors and is abloom in its second year with 31 species of native plants selected to attract local pollinators. Come hear all the buzz on how the sunny garden transforms April through October and is stewarded with care to provide seed and wildlife cover throughout the winter.

RSVP by emailing Garden Manager, Janice, at jlancaster@piedmontland.org.
Hope to see you in the garden!

Lake James State Park Adaptive Kayaking
2024-07-18 09:30 - 12:30
Enjoy the fun and serenity of Lake James State Park all while being part of a supportive community. This outdoor kayaking program is accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities. You can participate thanks to a variety of adaptive kayaking equipment and instruction designed to meet your individual needs. Our highly trained staff will instruct, support, and encourage you as you meet new people and learn new skills or further develop your existing ones. A variety of wildlife can be seen at Lake James including bald eagles, otters, beavers and more than 11 species of fish.
Cost per participant is $20. However please do not let the cost discourage you from joining us. Scholarships are available for those who need it. If a scholarship accommodation is needed, please reach out.
Register here:
https://waypoint-adventure-nc.jumbula.com/OpenEnrollment2024/071824LakeJamesStateParkKayaking
Any questions?
Please contact Waypoint Adventure NC if you have any questions.

Phone:
828-483-3383
Email:
rcarlson@waypointadventure.org

Lake Norman State Park Kayaking
2024-07-11 09:30 - 12:30
Lake Norman is the largest man made lake in the Carolinas. The section of lake you will be paddling on, by the visitor center, is a quiet and peaceful location. There are no motorized boats allowed on this section of lake making for flat, calm waters. This outdoor kayaking program is accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities. Enjoy the fun and serenity of Lake Norman State Park all while being part of a supportive community. You can participate thanks to a variety of adaptive kayaking equipment and instruction designed to meet your individual needs. Our highly trained staff will instruct, support, and encourage you as you meet new people and learn new skills or further develop your existing ones.
Cost per participant is $20. However please do not let the cost discourage you from joining us. Scholarships are available for those who need it. If a scholarship accommodation is needed, please reach out.

Register here:
https://waypoint-adventure-nc.jumbula.com/OpenEnrollment2024/071124LakeNormanStateParkKayaking

Lake James State Park Kayaking
2024-07-09 09:30 - 12:30
Enjoy the fun and serenity of Lake James State Park all while being part of a supportive community. This outdoor kayaking program is accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities. You can participate thanks to a variety of adaptive kayaking equipment and instruction designed to meet your individual needs. Our highly trained staff will instruct, support, and encourage you as you meet new people and learn new skills or further develop your existing ones. Cost per participant is $20. However please do not let the cost discourage you from joining us. Scholarships are available for those who need it. If a scholarship accommodation is needed, please reach out.
Sign up here:
https://waypoint-adventure-nc.jumbula.com/OpenEnrollment2024/070924LakeJamesStateParkKayaking

Please contact Waypoint Adventure NC if you have any questions!

Phone: 828-483-3383

Email: rcarlson@waypointadventure.org

Celebrate N.C. State Trails: Hike the Haw River Trail
2024-07-06 15:30 - 17:00
The Haw River Trail corridor runs 80 miles, from just north of Greensboro southeast to its conclusion in Jordan Lake. It’s boulder-strewn waters give the impression of a mountain river while its flora-choked banks are almost junglelike in spots. It’s perhaps the wildest experience to be had in the Piedmont.
Join the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Hometown Strong initiative for a celebration of the Haw by both land and water on July 6 in Saxapahaw. The day begins with a paddle on a dammed portion of the Haw, known as Lake Saxapahaw, from 1-3 p.m., followed by this 3-mile hike from 3:30 – 5 p.m.
The hike will begin just outside the Haw River Ballroom. We will hike the Haw River Trail 1.5 miles downstream on surprisingly smooth trail that defies the rocky river on your right, the lush wall of green on your left (save for a short stretch near the turnaround that passes a meadow).
This is an easy hike that’s dog-friendly (leashed-dog friendly). We will take a mellow pace, stopping to check out the Haw along the way. After the hike, stick around for Saturdays in Saxapahaw, live outdoor music from 6-8 p.m.
For more information and to sign up for this free event, go here.

Celebrate N.C. State Trails with a 2-hour Paddle on the Haw River
2024-07-06 13:00 - 15:00
The Haw River Trail runs 80 miles, from just north of Greensboro southeast to its conclusion in Jordan Lake. It’s boulder-strewn waters give the impression of a mountain river while its flora-choked banks are junglelike in spots. It’s perhaps the wildest experience to be had in the Piedmont.
Join the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Hometown Strong initiative for a celebration of the Haw by both land and water on July 6 in Saxapahaw. The day begins with a paddle on a dammed portion of the Haw, known as Lake Saxapahaw, from 1-3 p.m. It’s followed by this 3-mile hike from 3:30 – 5 p.m. (see separate sign-up). We’ll cap the day with Saturdays in Saxapahaw, live outdoor music from 6-8 p.m.
Regarding the paddle portion of the event: If you have a canoe/kayak/stand-up paddleboard, great! Just meet us at the put-in at 1 p.m. If you need a boat, you can rent from Haw River Canoe & Kayak, located at adjacent to the put-in. Rentals are:

$44 Single kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
$64 Tandem kayaks and canoes

Rentals incldue boat, PFD, paddle. Go here for details and to sign up!

Tree Identification Walk
2024-07-05 10:00 - 12:00
Join a park ranger for a guided tree ID walk along Profile Trail at Grandfather Mountain State Park. Grandfather Mountain is home to a unique variety of tree species- learn how to ID them based on leaves, buds, and bark! The hike will be slow-paced on natural surface trails, cover between 1-1.5 miles, and last two hours. Please wear sturdy hiking boots and dress according to weather. This event is weather permitting. All ages welcome, participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. No pets, please.

Paddle Parade 2024 - York Hill Access at Yadkin River Park
2024-06-29 10:00 - 13:00
Yadkin Riverkeeper will be joining Waterkeepers Carolina in their first annual Paddle Parade this summer to celebrate our Carolina rivers!

Yadkin Riverkeeper will be paddling a 4.5 mile loop starting and ending at the York Hill access in Yadkin River Park. Paddlers will paddle upstream and visit the historic Beard’s Bridge (1818) pilings and explore the Trading Ford crossing used for more than 10,000 years.
This event is open to the public. Don’t miss out! Get your tickets below!

Register here: https://www.yadkinriverkeeper.org/events/2024/6/29/paddle-parade-2024-york-hill-access

Price: $50 for ticket with boat rental, or $25 for ticket without boat rental (bring your own boat)

Tails on Trails at Farris Memorial Park!
2024-06-25 18:00 - 19:00
Bring your friends and leashed pups! This hike series will focus on dog-friendly hikes in Rockingham County and responsible stewardship practices for dog owners.
We will hike the Farris Bike Trail on June 25th at 6 pm.
We will meet at the first shelter when you enter the park. A DRBA flag will be out to direct people! There will be light refreshments and puppy snacks.
This hike will be approximately 1.5 miles and is considered a moderate to easy hike due to rock crossings and a natural trail surface. You will need to sign a waiver.
Link to the Google map directions: https://g.co/kgs/Y8QV2oY
