SOUTH FORK RAPIDS TOUR

Paddle along a scenic portion of the South Fork River. Most of this section of river is protected on both sides making you feel like you're in the mountains - only 25 minutes from Charlotte! Expect to see blue herons, osprey, turtles, and more native fauna and flora.

Guests will meet at The Boathouse and be fitted with all required gear (single kayak, PFD, helmet, paddle). A 10-minute shuttle ride will take you to Spencer Mountain where you’ll launch with 2 experienced guides who will help you navigate this beautiful stretch of the South Fork of the Catawba. Each trip will last approximately 3 hours and will conclude back at your car at The Boathouse.

Experience Level:  This kayaking experience is great for those who are comfortable in the water but might not be experts. It is accessible to many skills levels, and may include Class I and Class II rapids in several sections with easy moving, gentle water in between. 

Dates and Times:

Saturdays and Sundays from 9am-12pm and 2-5pm.

Where to Meet:

The Boathouse (115 Willow Drive, McAdenville, NC)

A shuttle will bring you to the start of your trip at the Spencer Mountain Access Area

Cost:

• $50 per guest
• 10% discount for Catawba Riverkeeper members

Cost Includes: 

• Single sit-on-top kayak
• PFD (personal floatation device)
• Paddle, Basic water safety
• Paddling instruction
• Two kayak guides
• Shuttle

Restrictions: 

• Must be 18 years of age to purchase tickets.
• Must be 12 years of age to participate with an adult.
• Weight limit on the kayak is 250 lbs.

What to Wear and What to Bring:

Guests should dress comfortably in clothes that can get wet. Shoes with a heel strap, a water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks are encouraged as well and available for sale at The Boathouse.

Deadline to Purchase Tickets:

There must be a minimum of 4 guests in a tour to be hosted. We will contact you no later than 12 noon on Friday for the Saturday or Sunday trip. You must purchase tickets by 10pm each Thursday for the Saturday or Sunday trip. If your desired date is closed, please contact Blue Heron Adventures at bha@catawbariverkeeper.org or call 980-251-7898 to check availability.

Weather Policy: 

Our policy is to host this your rain or shine EXCEPT in the case of severe rain, thunderstorms or lightning in the area as well as dangerous water level. If we have to cancel an event due to weather, we will provide a refund to all ticketed guests. We will do our best to notify guests of cancellations at least 2 hours in advance. 

Refund Policy: 

You may cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before your scheduled date. If we must cancel due to weather or water level, your ticket will be fully refunded within 48 hours after your scheduled date and time.