Discover North Carolina’s Yadkin River with Upper Yadkin Outfitters. Paddle past historic landmarks, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful escape through scenic waters. Read on to find out why this kayaking trip is a must-do.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for comfort, but accessible for beginners
Wildlife
History
The Yadkin River played a significant role in North Carolina’s logging industry in the early 20th century, with remnants visible along this route.
Conservation
Upper Yadkin Outfitters partners with local agencies to promote river conservation and responsible paddling, ensuring the river remains pristine for future generations.
Upper Yadkin Outfitters
Discover North Carolina’s Yadkin River with Upper Yadkin Outfitters. Paddle past historic landmarks, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful escape through scenic waters. Read on to find out why this kayaking trip is a must-do.
Upper Yadkin Outfitters is a paddlesports business based in Lenoir, North Carolina, offering kayak and canoe rentals and guided-style river adventures across the Upper Yadkin watershed and W. Kerr Scott Lake.
The company lists multi-day and single-day rentals for single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir, a 1,475-acre lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Trip options include day rentals at the reservoir and multi-day rental packages, plus river journeys such as Laytown to Marley’s Ford, Laytown to Ferguson, and Buffalo to Laytown. These experiences pass historic landmarks including Fort Defiance and sites associated with local history, and provide opportunities for wildlife observation and on-water fishing.
Many trip descriptions note suitability for paddlers of all skill levels and family-friendly outings. Upper Yadkin Outfitters focuses on local waterways — W. Kerr Scott Lake and sections of the Yadkin River — and markets trips that combine scenic paddling with regional history. Listings emphasize exploration of the reservoir’s shoreline and river stretches that reveal remnants of past logging towns and regional landmarks. Trip summaries highlight the natural setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the reservoir’s ample water area for exploration. Visitors can choose single- or two-person craft and one-way river passes that traverse historically significant stretches of the Yadkin. All public information describes a steady offering of rentals and river adventures operated from Lenoir, North Carolina. Trip listings repeatedly reference family outings, fishing opportunities, and paddling access points along the reservoir and river.
Location
Lenoir, NC
Operates on local waterways
Primary Lake
W. Kerr Scott (1,475 acres)
Blue Ridge Mountains setting
Trips Offered
7 distinct trips
Rentals and river adventures available
Craft Types
Kayak & Canoe
Single and two-person choices
Choose single, tandem, or canoe rentals and pick the day or multi-day option that fits the trip listed.
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay protected during your paddle.
Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water as kayaking can be physically demanding in the heat.
Check weather conditions
Verify weather forecasts before heading out to avoid storms or high winds.
Bring a waterproof bag
Protect your valuables and electronics from water with a dry bag.
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during sunny paddle days.
spring|summer|fall
Wide-brim hat
Provides shade and helps prevent sunburn.
spring|summer|fall
Water bottle
Stay hydrated on the water.
Quick-drying clothes
Comfortable shirts and shorts that dry fast are ideal.
summer|spring|fall