We're here to help
    Book online or call (650) 414-7338
    1. Local experiences/
    2. Saxapahaw, NC/
    3. Self-Guided Experiences/
    4. Self Guided and Passes/
    5. Saxapahaw Lake Flatwater Paddle – 4 Hours
    Why travelers choose Greetwell
    Curated by our team

    Every experience is selected and approved for quality and safety

    Personal concierge

    Real humans available to help before, during, and after your booking

    Intimate & authentic

    Including unique in-home experiences you won't find anywhere else

    Easy booking

    Reserve in minutes with flexible cancellation on most experiences

    Greetwell

    Experiences that stay with you long after the trip

    Greetwell curates authentic local experiences and provides personal concierge support in over 500 destinations, helping you explore confidently wherever you go.

    About

    • Our Story
    • For Experience Providers
    • For Hospitality Partners

    Concierge Support

    • Help Center
    • (650) 414-7338
    • Contact our team

    Safe & Secure Payments

    © 2026 Greetwell, Inc. All rights reserved.
    Privacy PolicyTerms
    Product image 1
    Product image 2
    Product image 3
    Product image 4
    Product image 5
    Product image 6
    Product image 7
    Product image 8
    Gallery image
    Gallery image 1
    Gallery image 2
    Gallery image 3
    Gallery image 5

    Saxapahaw Lake Flatwater Paddle – 4 Hours

    Explore calm, current-free waters with gear provided and launch help, ideal for beginners and families

    From$51/ boat

    Search all experiences

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Duration

    4 Hours

    Includes

    Boat rental, Paddles & PFDs

    Highlights

    Launch from Saxapahaw Lake Paddle Access and explore the calm, impounded flatwater above the dam at your own pace. Enjoy a self-guided out-and-back with the scenery of the river and the tranquility of a lake.

    • Launch and return at the same dock
    • Receive a safety briefing and basic instruction
    • Explore no-current flatwater above the dam
    • Swim, fish, birdwatch, and picnic from your boat
    • Get assistance with launching and take out
    • Set your own pace and distance

    What's Included

    • Kayak, canoe, and/or stand-up paddleboard rental
    • Paddle & PFD rental
    • Safety brief & basic paddling instruction
    • Assistance with boat launch and take out

    Things to know

    Solo craft are for ages 8+, while tandem and canoe riders must be 2+ and at least 30 lbs to fit a life vest. Minors without an accompanying adult must provide a signed parent or guardian waiver. Dogs are allowed only in canoes.

    FAQs

    What is a "Self-Guided" Trip?
    Self-guided trips are curated river experiences with boat and equipment rental, launch and take-out assistance, basic paddle and safety instruction, and shuttling when required. Boats are not allowed to be transported by guests to other locations.

    Do I need to know how to paddle to do this trip?
    No. Saxapahaw Lake has no current, no rocks, and no wake-forming motor boats. Staff can provide basic instruction and assist with launch and take-out.

    Is your access public use?
    Yes. This trip uses the Saxapahaw Lake public access on Jordan Drive, managed by Alamance Parks. Gas-powered engines are not permitted.

    Can I bring my dog?
    Yes, but only in canoes. A fitted dog life jacket is recommended, and some dogs may not take well to paddling.

    How clean is the river?
    The Haw River is a natural body of water with typical conditions. The Haw River Assembly publishes a Swim Guide every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

    Is the river a circle?
    No. Saxapahaw Lake is part of the Haw River, which flows to Jordan Lake and then becomes the Cape Fear River.

    When should we turn around?
    For four hour trips, you can comfortably paddle up to the powerlines about 2 miles upriver while exploring coves. The Puryear dam is about 5 miles upstream and too far for the time allotted.

    Is it a river or a lake?
    Both. Saxapahaw Lake is a reservoir on the Haw River created by a 30-foot dam. At normal levels there is no current for about 5 miles.

    Cancellation policy

    Reschedule up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours or no-shows receive no refund. If the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, they will contact you to reschedule.

    Meeting location

    Saxapahaw Lake Paddle Access

    Experience provided by The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co.
    Experience provided by The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co.

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #T9GDGQ

    Single Kayak

    $51.59

    For 1 Person • 275lb Weight Limit • Minimum 8 Years Old

    0

    Stand Up Paddleboard

    $51.59

    For 1 Person • 250lb Weight Limit • Minimum 9 Years Old

    0

    Tandem Kayak

    $75.04

    For 2 People • 435lb Weight Limit • Minimum 2 Years Old & 30lbs

    0

    Canoe

    $75.04

    For 2 People • 600lb Weight Limit • Minimum 2 Years Old & 30 lbs

    0

    Fishing Kayak

    $56.28

    For 1 Person • 320lb Weight Limit • Minimum 8 Years Old

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

    Review summary

    The staff here clearly makes this operation shine. Reviews consistently praise guides like Jacob, Ben, Chandler, Jason, and Evan for being patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. Whether you're booking a solo canoe lesson, joining a guided stargazing trip, or taking their Quick Start Kayak Class, you'll find instructors who can read your skill level and tailor the experience accordingly. Several reviewers mention how welcoming the team is, even to complete beginners who've taken an unexpected dip in the water. The company offers both self-guided rentals and specialized tours like their Wildflower and Wildlife excursions or evening starlight paddles on the calm lake waters. The Haw River itself is a peaceful spot without motorboats, and the operation handles logistics smoothly so you can just show up and paddle. It's conveniently located near town and works well for families or anyone looking for a relaxing few hours on the water. One tubing guest felt frustrated by how much paddling was required to keep moving, though kayakers and canoers seem consistently happy with their experiences. The business recently dealt with hurricane flooding but continued serving customers throughout.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    We joined the Wildflower and Wildlife tour and it was the best way to spend a few hours on the weekend! The weather was beautiful and the staff was wonderful. They were super patient and provided clear instructions, and were very knowledgeable about the river’s history and the local flora and fauna. They made everything really easy and fun, despite being out of their normal space after the hurricane flooded their building. 10/10 recommend renting from them or joining a guided tour. So much fun!

    Photo of Berkeley Bryant

    Berkeley Bryant

    August 21, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We joined the Wildflower and Wildlife tour and it was the best way to spend a few hours on the weekend! The weather was beautiful and the staff was wonderful. They were super patient and provided clear instructions, and were very knowledgeable about the river’s history and the local flora and fauna. They made everything really easy and fun, despite being out of their normal space after the hurricane flooded their building. 10/10 recommend renting from them or joining a guided tour. So much fun!

    Photo of Berkeley Bryant

    Berkeley Bryant

    August 21, 2025

    Nearby activities

    Thumbnail

    Spirit Island Overnight Paddle-In Camping

    From$79
    Thumbnail

    Haw River Tubing in Saxapahaw with Shuttle

    From$29/ person
    Thumbnail

    Guided Kayaking Tour in Saxapahaw, NC

    From$42/ boat
    Thumbnail

    Saxapahaw Kayaking: Glencoe Dam Calm Waters

    $35/ person
    Thumbnail

    Saxapahaw Kayaking: 5.5-Mile River Rapids Tour

    $55/ kayak
    Thumbnail

    Haw River Kayaking Tour with Picnic & Fishing

    From$55/ kayak