outhwest Virginia is a kayaker's paradise, with an incredible variety of destinations for paddlers of all levels. While many of the region's popular spots are well-known, there are some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this post, we'll explore the best hidden gems for kayaking in Southwest Virginia and provide tips for exploring them safely and responsibly.
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New River: The New River is one of the best-kept secrets of Southwest Virginia's kayaking scene. The river is the second oldest river in the world and is known for its gentle flows, stunning scenery, and rich history. The New River flows through three states and offers a variety of kayaking experiences, from gentle floats to thrilling rapids. The New River is a great choice for kayakers of all levels. In particular, the section between Ivanhoe and Fries is perfect for beginners, while the section from Fries to Galax offers intermediate and advanced rapids.
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Little River: The Little River is a lesser-known destination that offers a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience. The river flows through the charming town of Floyd and is known for its crystal clear waters, towering trees, and rolling hills. The scenery is picturesque, with the river winding through dense forests and rolling hills. The Little River is a great choice for kayakers who are looking for a more mellow and relaxing experience. The best section for kayaking is between Christiansburg and Radford, where the river offers some fun and challenging rapids.
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South Fork of the Holston River: The South Fork of the Holston River is a hidden gem that offers a thrilling and challenging kayaking experience. The river flows through the scenic Holston Mountain and offers a mix of rapids and calm sections, with stunning views of the region's ridges and valleys. The South Fork of the Holston River is recommended for experienced kayakers who are comfortable with technical rapids. The best section for kayaking is between Mendota and Damascus, where the river offers some of the most challenging and scenic rapids in the region.
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Philpott Lake: Philpott Lake is a beautiful destination for kayaking in Southwest Virginia. The lake offers calm and scenic paddling, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The lake is also home to a variety of fish, making it a popular spot for fishing from kayaks. Philpott Lake is a great choice for kayakers who are looking for a peaceful and scenic experience. The best section for kayaking is the area around the dam, which offers some calm and scenic paddling opportunities.
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Clinch River: The Clinch River is a lesser-known destination that offers a unique and memorable kayaking experience. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and blue herons. The scenery is stunning, with the river flowing through remote and pristine wilderness areas. The Clinch River is a great choice for kayakers who are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. The best section for kayaking is the area around the town of St. Paul, where the river offers some of the most scenic and challenging rapids in the region.
Tips for Exploring Southwest Virginia's Hidden Kayaking Gems
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Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a life jacket and protective padding.
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Check the weather forecast and water levels before heading out on a kayaking trip.
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Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized. We recommend a Vayska 2 Liter Hydration Bottle, which fits in your boat or can be lashed to the front.
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Familiarize yourself with the kayaking destinations and difficulty levels before embarking on a trip. Some of the destinations in Southwest Virginia can be quite challenging, so it's important to know what you're getting into before you hit the water.
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Respect the environment and other kayakers by leaving no trace and staying on designated waterways. This means packing out all of your trash, avoiding disturbing wildlife, and following all posted regulations and rules.