easy
3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels including beginners and families with young children.
Explore Saxapahaw Lake’s calm, scenic waters on a beginner-friendly three-hour paddle in Graham, NC. Perfect for families and nature lovers seeking peaceful flatwater adventure.
Flatwater Out & Back
Embark on a serene 3-hour flatwater adventure at Saxapahaw Lake, perfect for families and beginner paddlers. Enjoy the tranquility of the lake while swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or picnicking at your leisure. With no current or motor boats, this accessible experience invites you to explore nature and discover yourself.
Guests put in and take out at the same location for this trip. Traveling upriver from the Saxapahaw lake paddle access dock, and returning to the same dock at the end of the reserved trip time.
After checking in, guests take a short nature walk from our main office to the Saxapahaw lake paddle access (<¼ mile). Putting in and taking out at the same location, guests explore the flatwater impounded upriver of the large dam, with the scenery of the river but the tranquility of a lake. Guests are free to swim, fish, birdwatch, and picnic in their boats at their own leisure before returning to the dock. Suitable for all skill levels, guests are in control of the amount of time and distance spent on the river.
All paddlers under the age of 18 that will not be accompanied by an adult should have a signed waiver from a parent/guardian before they can go on the trip.
To fit into a life vest, all passengers should be over the age of 2 years and at least 30 lbs.
A reservation can be rescheduled or canceled at least 24 hours in advance in order to receive full in-store credit towards a future trip or course. Cancellations or “no-shows” within 24 hours of a reservation will receive no credit or refund.
Tips appreciated - even the Titanic tipped!
Photo Credits: Ryan Fitzsimmons, Ben Clarke
Saxapahaw Lake access can fill quickly on weekends, so plan to arrive early to guarantee a spot.
While the water is calm, personal flotation devices are mandatory and provided for your safety.
Pack enough hydration and light snacks to enjoy during your on-water breaks or picnic stops.
Consult the Haw River Assembly Swim Guide for current water quality updates during warmer months.
Saxapahaw Lake was created by damming the Haw River, shaping local industry and ecology since the early 20th century.
The area benefits from ongoing monitoring by the Haw River Assembly to maintain clean waters and protect habitat.
Protect your feet when getting in and out of boats and during swimming breaks.
summer specific
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat shield you from UV exposure on open water.
summer specific
Useful for unpredictable spring showers or cooler mornings on the lake.
spring specific
Stay hydrated throughout your paddle with easy access to water.