Stretching 6.2 miles along one of North Carolina’s longest rivers, the Yadkin offers an approachable paddle that welcomes beginners and season veterans alike. From the launch at Crater Park to the takeout at Burch Station, this section flows steadily with a gentle 3 feet per mile gradient, providing an inviting blend of calm stretches and manageable rapids. Here, the wide river asserts its presence, the current nudging paddlers forward while offering choices in line and challenge. Multiple rapid options pepper the river’s path, and paddlers can explore routes that range from mellow runs to lines with a little more bite, matching their skill level and appetite for adventure.

The journey begins at Crater Park, where a ramp and floating dock make entry straightforward and accessible, setting a practical tone for this well-maintained waterway. As you push off, the river’s surface reflects the sky; the gentle roar of moving water accompanies you as groves of hardwoods lean in close, their branches whispering with every breeze. Wildlife stirs along the banks, a distant eagle’s cry cutting through the soft rush of flowing currents.

Overhead, the sun filters through leaves, casting dappled light on the water’s surface. Each rapid reveals subtle variations—a jutting rock, a swift tongue of whitewater, or safer eddies for rest and reassessment. Among these, the river’s character reveals itself: a steady but playful current inviting paddlers to pick their path carefully yet confidently.

The conclusion of this float is at Burch Station, a take-out managed by Surry County Parks and Recreation. Here, 13 parking spaces accommodate the steady stream of paddlers enjoying this stretch. The takeout requires careful attention: it is river left of an island and can be easily missed if you drift wide. The cartop launch includes steps and handrails that double as a boat slide—practical design for ease of exit. Nearby, at the confluence with the Mitchell River, fishermen may find a rewarding detour to explore serene waters and thriving smallmouth bass habitats.

With water flows around 1740 CFS during peak conditions, the Yadkin here remains solidly runnable, blending excitement with relative safety. This makes it an ideal route for paddlers seeking fun without the pressure of extreme rapids. Timing your trip in fall or spring enhances the experience, as cooler weather sharpens water quality and the surrounding scenery shifts with seasonal color.

Preparation remains key: solid footwear, layered clothing adapted to season, and reliable hydration ensure comfort across varying conditions. Access points are public and well-kept, minimizing concerns about private land and permitting. Local paddling communities recommend early starts to savor quieter waters and avoid midday heat. Respect for the river’s ecosystem is expected—pack out all waste and be mindful of sensitive habitats.

For first-time visitors and regulars, the Yadkin River section between Crater Park and Burch Station offers an accessible, scenic whitewater encounter where nature both challenges and welcomes you. It’s a passage that rewards steady attention and invites paddlers to set their own pace amid calming flows and inviting breaks.