Adventure Collective
Explore Saxapahaw Lake: A Gentle Paddle on North Carolina’s Hidden Reservoir - Graham

Explore Saxapahaw Lake: A Gentle Paddle on North Carolina’s Hidden Reservoir

Grahameasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal exertion needed due to calm water

Overview

Discover Saxapahaw Lake, a peaceful reservoir on the Haw River perfect for beginner paddlers and families. This two-hour trip offers calm waters, wildlife spotting, and easy access just outside Graham, North Carolina.

Graham, North Carolina

Two Hour Saxapahaw Lake

Flatwater Out & Back

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About This Adventure

Experience the serene beauty of Saxapahaw Lake on a beginner-friendly flatwater paddling trip. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and birdwatching at your own pace, with no current or motorboats to disrupt your tranquility. Perfect for families and accessible for all, this adventure invites you to connect with nature and yourself.

“By discovering nature, you discover yourself." - Maxime Lagacé

Quick Info

  • Trip Flatwater Out & Back
  • Duration 2 Hours
  • Guides None
  • Difficulty Beginner-Friendly
  • Ages 8+ Solo, 2+ Tandem
  • Meets At Saxapahaw

About

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.

Cancelation Policy

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 Credit: Ben Clarke & Jerry Yang

Adventure Tips

Start with a safety briefing

Attend the provided safety and basic paddling instruction to ensure a confident and secure outing on the lake.

Bring sun protection

Even on cloudy days, UV exposure can be high on the water—wear a hat and sunscreen.

Keep water safety in mind

Life jackets are required and provided—always wear yours while on the water, especially with children.

Scout your turnaround point

Plan to paddle about a mile upstream to a quiet cove to turn around and avoid getting too far from the dock.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Great Blue Heron
  • Eastern Box Turtle

History

Saxapahaw Lake was formed by a dam on the Haw River, a crucial waterway for North Carolina’s early industry and settlement.

Conservation

The area is managed by Alamance Parks with efforts supporting clean water and habitat protection on the Haw River.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

PFD/Life Jacket

Essential

Mandatory for safety and comfort during your paddle.

Waterproof water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated while enjoying the peaceful lake.

Sun hat and sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from strong sun exposure on open water.

summer specific

Quick-dry clothing

Wear clothing that dries fast in case you get splashed or take a swim.

spring specific