THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the calm waters of Saxapahaw Lake in North Carolina on a relaxing four-hour kayak and canoe adventure. Ideal for beginners and families, this trip combines gentle paddling with opportunities to swim, fish, and enjoy quiet wildlife encounters.
Discover the calm waters of Saxapahaw Lake in North Carolina on a relaxing four-hour kayak and canoe adventure. Ideal for beginners and families, this trip combines gentle paddling with opportunities to swim, fish, and enjoy quiet wildlife encounters.
Book with The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. · Graham, North Carolina
easy.
4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners and families with children as young as 2 years old
No prior experience is needed—basic paddling instruction and safety briefing are provided by friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Dogs are allowed only in canoes to prevent tipping, and we recommend a fitted canine life jacket for their safety.
Yes, there is one restroom and a changing pod located close to the paddle access dock for guest convenience.
Saxapahaw Lake is a reservoir created by damming the Haw River, resulting in calm, flat water that resembles a lake.
No, gas-powered engines are not permitted to maintain a peaceful environment and protect the ecosystem.
Paddlers can often spot great blue herons, kingfishers, and a variety of local waterfowl along the lake's edges.
Saxapahaw Lake is part of the Haw River, historically significant as a colonial trade route and named for the Saxapahaw indigenous people.
Local efforts focus on protecting the Haw River watershed to maintain water quality and habitat for diverse wildlife.
The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. is a Graham, North Carolina outfitter specializing in paddling experiences on the Haw River, Saxapahaw Lake, and coastal expeditions. The company offers a diverse roster of trips and classes including shuttle services, self-guided paddles, guided lake tours, day-long canoe journeys, whitewater assessments, roll instruction, river safety and rescue courses, and multi-day sea kayaking weekends. Guided experiences range from family-friendly sunset and moonlight paddles to an eight-hour Black River swamp canoe trip with a gourmet lunch. Instructional offerings include a 1.5-hour kayak roll session and an eight-hour River Safety & Rescue class taught by experienced instructors. The business runs seasonal and event-based programs such as stand up paddleboard yoga evenings and lecture series like the Alaska nature presentations. Rentals, shuttle logistics, and expert-led instruction support paddlers of varying skill levels, from beginners to modestly experienced athletes. Safety, local river knowledge, and structured training are central to the operation’s approach, with practical on-water drills paired with on-land instruction where appropriate. The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. partners with local guides and operators for coastal trips, and emphasizes conservation of waterways and responsible paddling practices. Booking, calendar events, and waitlist options are available for popular tours. For residents and visitors in central North Carolina seeking guided paddling, classes, or shuttles, the company provides experienced leadership, accessible locations, and a range of trip styles to match goals and skill levels. Customer safety briefings and clear equipment standards regularly make outings welcoming to paddlers of all levels.
Book with The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co.