Discover Bear Lake’s calm waters in Western North Carolina on a guided kayaking trip to the striking Sols Creek Waterfall. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and a delicious shore lunch amidst mountain tranquility.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling stamina required for a half-day trip.
Wildlife
History
Bear Lake resides within an area historically used by Cherokee communities, with the surrounding mountains holding deep cultural significance.
Conservation
The guides emphasize low-impact paddling and wildlife respect to preserve Bear Lake’s pristine environment for future visitors.
Headwaters Outfitters
Discover Bear Lake’s calm waters in Western North Carolina on a guided kayaking trip to the striking Sols Creek Waterfall. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and a delicious shore lunch amidst mountain tranquility.
Headwaters Outfitters, based in Rosman, NC, operates guided fishing, paddling, camping and outdoor education on the French Broad River and surrounding lakes. The outfitter offers a wide range of experiences including guided fly-fishing lessons, trout wade trips on private waters, smallmouth and bass float trips, musky targeting adventures, and multi-hour self-guided paddling options like Hap Simpson and Island Ford runs. Classes and workshops include Fly Fishing Foundations, Advanced Casting, Spey Casting, Angler Entomology and Selecting a Fly, all taught with low student-to-instructor ratios for personalized skill-building. Paddling-focused offerings include guided Bear Lake sea kayaking trips to Sols Creek Waterfall, overnight canoe camping trips on the Upper French Broad, family-friendly floats, and festival paddles like Paddle to the Pork. Headwaters Outfitters also coordinates collaborative events with local breweries — Paddle then Pints with Ecusta Brewing Company and Cruise then Booze with Oskar Blues — and hosts seasonal community programs such as the Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up and Appalachian Santa Night. The business manages the first private campground on the French Broad Paddle Trail, featuring six primitive riverside campsites and options for full campground rental. Gear, shuttles and guided instruction are provided on many trips, and experienced guides such as local captains lead species-specific charters. Emphasis is placed on safety, Leave No Trace ethics, environmental stewardship and authentic local partnerships, making the outfitter a resource for anglers, paddlers and outdoor learners visiting Western North Carolina.
Base Location
Rosman, NC
Blue Ridge foothills on the French Broad
Tours Offered
28+
Guided paddles, fishing, classes, camping
Riverside Camps
6 campsites
First private campground on the trail
Community Impact
3,000+
River clean-ups since 1992
Book guided fly-fishing, paddles, classes or campground rental now; gear, shuttles and expert instruction available.
Pack Water and Snacks
Though shore lunch is provided, staying hydrated before and after paddling is essential in this remote setting.
Wear Layers
Mountain weather can shift quickly—dress in moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable on the water.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Protect your gear while capturing photos of the waterfall and wildlife from the kayak.
Arrive Early to Stretch and Get Fitted
Allow time before launch for a thorough kayak fitting and safety briefing with your guides.
Comfortable Paddle Clothing
Lightweight layers will keep you warm in cooler spring temperatures.
spring
Sun Protection
Hat and sunscreen protect you from strong summer sun reflection off the water.
summer
Rain Jacket
Fall weather can be wetter; having waterproof protection safeguards your comfort.
fall
Gloves
Paddling gloves can help keep hands warm during colder months if trips operate.
winter