Lake Fontana, located along the southern border of the Great Smoky Mountains, creates the largest untouched wilderness in the east. Paddling here you'll find some of the best scenery, wildlife viewing, fishing and seclusion in this national park. We paddle from the adjacent Nantahala National forest into one of three of the most remote regions of the Great Smoky Mountains, where paddlers can expect to experience a true wilderness expedition. During the trip, our experienced guides offer insight into survival techniques, sea kayak supported backcountry camping, trout fishing and the rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains. Each expedition is unique, providing a flexible, relaxed itinerary which includes interpretive hikes, waterfalls, fishing, ultra-photographic landscapes and exploration.

Additional Information

Note on Itinerary:

There are multiple Great Smoky Mountain routes that we may select from along Lake Fontana in the Nantahala National Forest, Lake Santeetlah in the Nantahala National Forest and Calderwood Lake in the Slickrock Wildneress that will enable us to create a fantastic paddling experience for guests, and we may utilize any of those options.  Our final route and itinerary listed above is determined by our guides and based on the availability of suitable backcountry camping access and other factors which may be beyond our control. This trip is operated rain or shine.

Important Information about Air Travel:

Single Travelers:

Transfers:

There is no reliable transfer service from any airport to our group's meeting point.  Plan on renting a car if you are flying in for this expedition.

Qualifications:

This trip is rated Moderate (3). We will paddle less than 5 miles to/from our backcountry basecamp. We will carry gear on the sea kayaks. During hikes we will carry day packs weighing 10-15 lbs. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least three months prior to your departure.  Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level.

Weather:

Daytime temperatures usually range between 50-75 degrees F, with evening temperatures dropping into the 30s - 50s. You may encounter freezing temperatures at some of the higher elevations. The Great Smoky Mountains are considered to be a temperate rain forest and rain is a distinct possibility, so adequate rain gear is important.

General Information:

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current High Rock Expeditions Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and detailed pre-trip information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance.

Fontana Sea Kayaking Expedition Itinerary:

• Day 1 - Paddle to Basecamp.
• Day 2 - Choose from a list of activities that fit your groups interest.
• Day 3 - Paddle back to put in.

Things To Bring

A detailed packing list will be emailed to you once you have booked your spot(s).

Inclusions

All backcountry accommodations; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; professional instruction and guiding; group cooking gear; group first aid kit, water filter; shuttle to/from the departure site to Bryson City, NC.

Exclusions

Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point; insurance of any kind; 2 lunches and snack items (see pack list for detailed guidance); alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.

Cancellation Policy

If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due to PaddleFish Expeditions at the time (prior to departure) we receive written notice of your cancellation.

91 or more days: $0
61 to 90 days: 25% of trip cost
31 to 60 days: 50% of trip cost
0 to 30 days: 100% of trip cost

Departs

Year around

Pickup/Departure

Your trip begins in Bryson City, North Carolina. You will meet at the PaddleFish Outpost located at 59 Depot Street in Bryson City at 9 am. After introductions, we will briefly go over your gear, do an orientation and review medical information.

Additional Locations