THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
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. · Burlington, North Carolina
Discover the laid-back excitement of Great Bend Tubing on the Haw River in Burlington, North Carolina, offered by The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. This private tubing experience begins with an exhilarating slide through the dam bypass tunnel, setting the tone for a fun-filled day on the water. After the initial thrill, enjoy a gentle 1-mile float down the Haw River, surrounded by vibrant green forests and the calming sounds of nature. The route is ideal for all ages, starting from 5 years old, and perfect for beginners looking for an easy outdoor water activity. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a casual date, or a relaxed adventure with friends, Great Bend Tubing offers a refreshing escape from city life. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and appreciate the peaceful river environment. The experience is designed as a short yet memorable nature break, highlighting the natural charm of Burlington and its scenic river landscape.
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required, mainly sitting and floating.
Yes, Great Bend Tubing is suitable for children ages 5 and up with adult supervision.
Wear quick-dry clothes, water shoes, and bring a waterproof sunscreen for protection.
The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. provides all tubing gear including tubes and life jackets.
Light snacks and water are recommended, but avoid glass containers to prevent litter.
Low water levels may affect the ease of the float; check conditions beforehand with the company.
No prior experience is needed; this trip is designed for beginners and first-timers.
The Haw River has a rich history as a resource for early North Carolina settlements and local industry.
Efforts by local groups help maintain the river’s health by monitoring water quality and promoting clean recreation.
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.