Float down the Haw River with a unique slide start! Great Bend Tubing offers a relaxing and scenic tubing trip perfect for beginners and families near Burlington, NC.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required, mainly sitting and floating.
Wildlife
History
The Haw River has a rich history as a resource for early North Carolina settlements and local industry.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups help maintain the river’s health by monitoring water quality and promoting clean recreation.
The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co.
Float down the Haw River with a unique slide start! Great Bend Tubing offers a relaxing and scenic tubing trip perfect for beginners and families near Burlington, NC.
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.
Location
Graham, NC
Convenient access to Haw River
Tours Offered
10 Trips
Varied river and sea experiences
Trip Length
1.5–8 hours
Skills sessions to full-day trips
Guided & Self-Guided
Both Available
Instruction, guided tours, and rentals
Reserve guided tours, classes, or shuttle service online — spots fill for sunset paddles, lessons, and coastal weekends.
Start with the Dam Bypass Slide
Don’t miss the exciting slide through the dam bypass tunnel that kicks off the tubing adventure.
Wear Water Shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and slippery surfaces along the riverbed by wearing secure water shoes.
Bring Sunscreen
Apply waterproof sunscreen to prevent sunburn during the float, especially on sunny afternoons.
Keep Hydrated
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, particularly on warmer days as you enjoy the river.
Water Shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and slippery surfaces in the river.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended exposure on the water.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothes
Keeps you comfortable and dry after tubing through cooler weather.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps you stay hydrated throughout your tubing adventure.