Tour Description: Our adventure begins at the edge of the Lowcountry saltmarsh, at one of our three area locations. We'll review basic kayaking techniques before departing. Once everyone is familiar with the kayaks and equipment, we'll set off for one of the many systems of tidal tributaries, an area that is accessible only by kayak.
Follow your guide as they navigate the salt marsh maze. Along the way you learn how the marshes were created, their importance to the protection of the coast during storms, and how daily tidal surges sustain this complex eco-system. You'll discuss the local tradition of shrimping the Atlantic, crabbing the in-shore waterways, and how history has shaped the local culture.
Wildlife: The Lowcountry salt marsh supports a wide variety of birds, mammals, and sealife. Paddle along the edge of the tidal estuaries in search of strand feeding pods of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Poking into shallow creeks, you'll drift over tidal pools teeming with shrimp, blue crabs, stone crabs, hermit crabs, small fish and more! We'll explore the outer edges of one of the many uninhabited marsh islands, looking for river otter and the elusive mink. Look toward the sky for the graceful underbelly of an Osprey keenly searching for its next meal. While leisurely paddling back to our launch site, don't forget to check out the hordes of fiddlers crabs scurrying for shelter from airborne predators.
WHY GO: Every aspect of this tour was designed with families and new paddlers in mind. The guides focus on the wildlife and encourage each group to relax and have a great time. The kayaks for this trip are sit-on-tops, which are more stable than traditional cockpit style kayaks, and easier to paddle.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $62 for each adult. $32 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Four to Five hours of easy to moderate walking with stops for water, snacks and historical discussions along the way. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 5 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 12 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Oconaluftee
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
