Kayaking the New River in NC

Let's get out on the river! We'll be doing a 10-mile paddle down a beautiful section of the New River near West Jefferson, NC. The water will be moving but we won't encounter any significant rapids. We'll see all types of scenery from meadows to forests and cliffs. This section is for all skill levels, including beginners. Of course, you should know how to swim and be reasonably fit for 4 to 5 hours on the river.

We'll be renting from Zaloo's Canoes. You can also bring your own boat and paddle with the group. You will pay Zaloo's Canoes directly when you get there. Just let them know that you are with our group. Here are the costs, which include the shuttle back to the outpost:

• Single Kayak: $45
• Tandem (2-person) Kayak: $55
• Shuttle only (If you have your own boat): $10

What to bring:

• Lunch
• Drybag (optional)
• Hat
• River shoes (preferably not flip-flops)
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• A dry change of clothes
• A towel
• A reusable water bottle

What to wear:

Here is a great guide on how to dress for kayaking:
What to Wear Kayaking: Layering Tips | REI Expert Advice

Tips: Make sure to get there early enough for a restroom stop, get checked in, and unload a personal boat if you have one. Also, don't count on cell service. I recommend downloading offline maps on Google Maps or Apple Maps for easy navigation back home.