Paddle

14 MILES • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 AT 8 A.M.

Share your Paddle secrets, in Comments, below

A truly underrated paddle, with 3 different experiences as you float past many homes on the western shore, along the wilderness of the state park & on the quiet eastern shore.
Begin at the beach near Dales Seafood

• Check-in & Registration: 7-7:45 a.m.
• Direction of travel will be determined shortly before start, based on wind conditions.
• The state park has erected marker poles around the lake, so simply stay between the poles and the shore.
• If you must take shelter, go to the nearest pier, but be respectful of the owners and attempt to get their permission.
• Volunteers will patrol the lake, should you need assistance.
• Kayaks are the crafts of choice. Canoes will make the journey more difficult, and paddleboats will not work.
• Depending on your craft, skill and pace, your voyage should last between 3-6 hours.
• Pack enough snacks and water to be comfortable.
• Pack a cell phone, if possible, in waterproof bags.
• Keep an eye on other paddlers for the safety of everyone.

Do not attempt this Personal Endurance Challenge
if you cannot paddle for one hour easily, or paddle in rough water.
Always consult a health professional before embarking on a new exercise regimen.
Ready to go? Click here for a Paddle training schedule.

SAFETY NOTE: Updated N.C. boating laws this year require everyone in a canoe or kayak to have access to a Type I, II or III personal flotation device (cushion, ring or vest, etc.) and everyone under age 13 to wear a vest. N.C. Wildlife rangers will be on hand to enforce boating laws.