WHAT SHOULD I BRING? If you are going on a boat trip there are a few items you will want to have. Also, you will want to protect yourself from extreme temperatures and high UV indexes.
*WATER BOTTLE *SUNSCREEN *SUNGLASSES *HAT *SWIMSUIT OR CLOTHES YOU DON'T MIND GETTING WET *WATERSHOES *CAMERA *LUNCH OR SNACKS *TOWEL *DRY CLOTHES FOR AFTER THE TRIP *A "DRY SACK" TO PROTECT ITEMS FROM WATER DAMAGE IS RECOMMENDED (camera, cellphone, etc.)
I'M GOING ON AN OVERNITE TRIP WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
You will want to bring everything mentioned for day trips plus camping gear and food to last the duration of the trip. Remember though if you are in a kayak space is limited and it is comparable to backpacking - try to limit excessive gear. This is also a good idea if you are canoeing. Although you have more room in a canoe, try to pack as light as possible. Dry bags are recommended as well, so you have a dry sleeping bag and clothes.
WILL I TURN THE BOAT OVER?
We can't guaranty you won't flip over, we do take some precautions to help minimize capsize. We specialize in using Ocean Kayak brand sit-on-top kayaks. These boats have been designed to be used on the ocean, so they can handle most water conditions on the river. If you don't overload them they are very stable. We try to size you to a boat. If you choose a touring kayak or canoe you must be aware that these boats handle differently. Your center of gravity may be higher, or the boat may be narrower thus affecting stability. Also the sit-on-tops are easier to self rescue from so we suggest calling us for more information on the right boat for you.
WHEN IS A GOOD TIME OF YEAR TO GO?
Anytime you can get on the water - is a good time to go! The Haw River is boatable year round. We are only available on the weekends - Saturday/ Sunday. Mid-March through late-November is the prime season for running the Haw River.Depending upon winter temperature conditions and the amount of precipitation in its drainage basin, the Haw River may be navigable year-round. Between late-fall and late-spring freezing temperatures can be expected. Summer daytime temperatures can reach 100° with warm humid nights.
WHAT IS THE PHYSICAL AND KNOWLEDGEABLE REQUIREMENTS OF PARTICIPANTS?
Each participant is individually responsible for judging their own qualifications, skill level, and safety on the river. You must be in good health. Although no prior canoe or paddling skills are required, a few skills and knowledge needed to paddle a canoe/ kayak on moving water is expected. When you sign-up for the trip, you'll receive additional safety information and we'll have a safety briefing at the launch site. WHAT KIND OF SCENERY ENVIRONMENT WILL I EXPERIENCE?Wildlife is in abundance in and along the Haw River; from beavers, small mouth bass, bream, reptiles, owls and other waterfowl.
Hwy 85 is not far from the river, so you can hear vehicles at times, , and manmade debris can be found in and along the river. The view of the roaming river and the wildlife help offset the sound of the highway to make this an enjoyable run.
Paddlers should be respectful of the natural environment, defacing nothing and taking nothing except memories, photographs, and maybe some fish. We only have one environment. When it is gone, then the things we all enjoy doing in the great outdoors will also be gone, and our quality of life will be severely diminished.
It is likely that you will paddle the Haw River in the company of many other groups ranging in experience level from novices to experts, including families, social, church, business or other groups and just about anybody else who thrives on the ultimate outdoors adventure.
CAN I CAMP ALONG THE RIVER?
On most stretches of the river camping restrictions are in effect. The best thing to do is call us and let us help plan your trip.
WHAT ARE THE AGE RESRICTIONS?
We do not have age restrictions. It is dependant on what the parents feel comfortable with. If you do take a child, you must have a proper LIFEJACKET for the child. We do have children's lifejackets and suggest you call in advance to make proper arrangements. There are some trips we don't recommend for smaller children. We also suggest checking with others in your group to see if children will fit the dynamics of the group.
IS THERE ANY WHITE WATER RAPIDS/ BIG DROPS ON THE HAW RIVER?
The river is classified as Class I and II. Meaning all obstructions are obvious and easily missed, and occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are missed easily by experienced paddlers. During the summer or some dry periods, you may have to step out into the knee deep water and push off a rock. The water is mostly gently moving with a small current during most of the year. Exception would be after a high volume of rain and the "Mighty Haw Wild Ride" section of the river. Risk to swimmers is slight and are seldom injured. Self-rescue is easy and assistance is seldom needed.
CAN I FISH ON THE HAW RIVER?
A North Carolina fishing license is required for all fishing. Each fishing participant is responsible for acquiring the appropriate license. The Haw River is a healthy river full of bream and small mouth bass. Good luck! SJK
*SUNGLASSES 
