Are you a thrill-seeker, riding the whitewater in a custom kayak? Or do you prefer to band together with friends for a fun afternoon of paddling? Whatever your goals, the rivers of Western North Carolina are here to deliver.
Quick Link: 10 Local Stores that have All the Outdoor Gear You Need to Enjoy Our Local Rivers
This season, we challenge you to step up your paddling game. Meet new people, expand your love of paddling, and test your skills in a friendly competition. Here are four upcoming kayak and canoe events in WNC:
Women’s Paddle Fest (Bryson City)
WHEN: Friday, June 1–Sunday, June 3, 2018
The Ladies Southeast Paddling Series is hosting a three-day paddle festival, featuring inspirational paddler Anna Levesque. Paddling trips will be offered on different rivers around Fontana Lake, offering opportunities for all skill levels and all watercraft. The registration fee includes tickets for the Paddle Fest raffle, which includes sweet gear like a Dagger kayak of choice, Werner paddle, and NRS gear. All ages.
Learn more: noc.com
Camp Cup Challenge (Bryson City)
WHEN: Monday, July 9–Tuesday, July 10, 2018
The Camp Cup Challenge began in the 1990s as a way to bring together the many camps of Western North Carolina. Today, it’s a two-day training and racing event for students at summer camps from across the region. Campers enjoy paddling, group activities, and community building. The program culminates in a tri-discipline event, which includes beginner-friendly downriver, freestyle, and slalom. Ages 18 and under.
Learn more: alzarschool.org
Paddle Grapple (Bryson City)
WHEN: Saturday, August 4, 2018
Choose your class of SUP, surfski, marathon, kayak, or canoe and race on beautiful Fontana Lake in the Great Smoky Mountains. With 3-mile and 6-mile race options, the Paddle Grapple offers opportunities for every boater, whether recreational or elite. Awards will be given to top finishers in each class. All ages.
Learn more: noc.com
The Green River Narrows Race (Saluda)
WHEN: Saturday, November 3, 2018
Founded in 1997, the Green River Narrows Race has been called the “rowdiest kayak race in America.” Each year on the first Saturday in November, kayakers meet for one of the country’s most competitive and respected events. Competitors face class V rapids and a narrow 18-foot drop (called the Gorilla) along the ¾-mile-long course. In addition to the main event, the competition is used to promote river conservation. In 2017, the event raised $5,000 for American Whitewater and the Green Riverkeeper program at MountainTrue.
Follow to learn more: facebook.com/pg/thegreenrivernarrowsrace
Are you a competitive paddler? What’s your favorite WNC event?
Are you a competitive paddler? 🛶 What’s your favorite WNC event? https://t.co/4nFSQBqsER
— Beverly-Hanks WNC (@beverlyhanks) May 1, 2018
