Is prior canoeing experience required?

No, this event is beginner-friendly and suitable for first-time paddlers.

What should I do if I don’t have gloves for trash collection?

Reusable gloves are recommended, but organizers also provide some on-site to protect your hands.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, the clean-up is family-friendly and perfect for children accompanied by adults.

What types of trash will be collected?

Participants collect plastics, cans, bottles, and other litter found along the riverbanks and water.

Can I bring my own canoe?

Organizers provide canoes and gear; bringing your own is typically not necessary or encouraged for safety reasons.

Is there an alternative date if the weather is bad?

The event may be rescheduled due to severe weather; check with organizers for updates.

Paddle & Protect: Haw River Clean-Up Adventure in Graham, North Carolina | Self-Guided Tour | Canoe

Flowing through the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, the Haw River offers paddlers a chance to connect with nature’s quieter rhythms and local history in equal measure. The Haw River Clean-Up invites adventurers of all ages and skill levels to take part in an eco-conscious journey along this calm, scenic waterway in Graham, NC. This two-hour canoeing experience combines the peaceful pleasures of paddling with hands-on stewardship, making it one of the area’s most meaningful outdoor excursions. Situated just outside Greensboro, Graham is a gateway to the Haw River’s mix of gentle currents, wooded banks, and glimpses of local wildlife like herons and turtles. The river winds through a landscape peppered with hardwood forests and patches of wetland, where water-loving plants thrive and provide habitat for a variety of species. This annual clean-up event isn’t just about keeping the river beautiful; it’s an opportunity to learn about the ecological balance of one of North Carolina’s vital watersheds. What sets this adventure apart is its purposeful mission. As you paddle downstream, you’ll be handed trash collection gear to retrieve debris—plastics, cans, and other litter—that has washed or been left into the river corridor. The act of gathering waste becomes a collective act of community care, blending environmental activism with a gentle outdoor challenge. It’s a beginner-friendly, low-impact paddle designed for families, friends, or anyone wanting an easy excursion with a positive environmental payoff. This unique blend of recreation and restoration is supported by knowledgeable local organizers who share insights on how pollution affects water quality, aquatic life, and recreational use. It’s a chance to see firsthand how a small group of engaged paddlers can make a tangible difference. Plus, the Haw River’s placid water and wide channel make it a welcoming setting for novices to build confidence and for kids to experience the outdoors safely. The 35th Annual Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon is more than a paddle; it’s an invitation to be part of a living conservation effort in North Carolina’s growing outdoor community. Visitors who book this experience through Haw River Canoe come away with a deeper appreciation for river stewardship and a fresh perspective on how accessible responsible outdoor adventure can be. For those staying nearby in Graham, the event complements a day of exploring local parks, trails, and Southern Piedmont hospitality. Jump into your canoe, grab a paddle, and help keep the Haw River thriving—this journey shows how adventure can support the planet, one paddle stroke at a time.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels including beginners and families; mostly gentle paddling on calm water.

Wildlife

Great Blue Heron
Eastern Box Turtle

History

The Haw River watershed has a rich history in textile manufacturing, once powering local mills before becoming a focus for watershed restoration.

Conservation

The clean-up supports ongoing efforts to improve water quality and habitat connectivity in the Haw River basin, emphasizing community involvement to reduce pollution.

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.

Base locationGraham, North Carolina

Tours offered59+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace