Half-Day Guided Kayak Tours In Gaston County
Updated: Apr 1, 2022
If you are ready to experience an authentic river with experienced guides, this half-day paddling experience is for you! Reserve your space, then meet us at The Boathouse on the South Fork of the Catawba River, located just west of Charlotte, NC.
This half-day guided kayaking experience is well suited for people who feel comfortable in water but maybe aren’t experts at kayaking. Each trip will last approximately 3 hours and will conclude back at your car, at the Boathouse, in McAdenville.
Let’s Paddle! After a safety talk you will be shuttled 15 minutes up the road to Spencer Mountain where the adventure begins. Two experienced guides will help you navigate this beautiful stretch of river.
The South Fork of the Catawba River offers paddlers an intimate experience with nature. Towering poplars and hardwoods line the banks and much of the land remains undeveloped, lending a sense of seclusion not easily found on rivers in urban areas.
A short stretch of easy, Class I rapids will add extra fun to the ride.
A $50 rental fee includes kayak, paddle, personal floatation device, safety instructions, group guides, and the shuttle to Spencer Mountain. Visitors should dress comfortably in clothes that can get wet. Shoes with a heel strap, a water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks are encouraged, and are also available for sale at the boathouse.
Reservations should be made online and there is a maximum of 10 paddlers per tour. Running two times per day on Saturdays and Sundays, the morning tour departs at 9 am and afternoon at 2 pm. Walk-ups may be available but reservations are recommended.
The Boathouse Not only a kayak hub where your trip begins and ends, The Boathouse is also a canteen and gear /apparel shop. After your trip you are invited to stop in, shop, and enjoy a local craft beer or seltzer. Proceeds from sales support Catawba Riverkeeper’s mission to protect local water quality.
The Boathouse is located next to the South Fork River Trail and R.Y. McAden Canoe and Kayak Launch in McAdenville, NC.
Self-Guided Paddling
If you prefer to paddle without a guide, the Catawba Riverkeeper offers self-guided options for 90 minutes. These rides do not require a reservation and are offered first-come first-served.
115 Willow Dr, McAdenville, NC Just off 1-85, 20 minutes from Uptown Charlotte
Photos by Wes Maxwell
