Get Cool on the Water – Enjoy the Blueway in Wilkes!

Get Cool on the Water – Enjoy the Blueway in Wilkes!

What could be more relaxing than floating down the Yadkin River? Cool breezes coming at you from the surrounding woods, birds singing in the trees along the banks, dragonflies humming by on a race to grab the next insect snack – spending time on the river helps you escape the harried routines of life and connect with the natural world.

Whether you’re a fan of fishing off the banks or you’d rather get in and paddle down the river a few miles, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water as the Yadkin River winds through Wilkes County.

Yadkin River’s Important Role

The Yadkin River originates with its headwaters in Blowing Rock, and flows down the mountains, going east and south until it becomes known as the Pee Dee River below Lake Tillery in eastern North Carolina. The river is 203 miles long, one of the longest in North Carolina. It serves as a water source for people in North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro, and other Wilkes County municipalities, and others all along the way to the Pee Dee. It also helps provide power for many residents of the Piedmont region, through Duke Energy’s hydroelectric power plants.

In addition to its vital role in utilities, the Yadkin River is an important recreational resource. In 1985, the General Assembly established the Yadkin River State Trail, also known as a State Blueway Trail, which runs for miles with a connected system of access points from Wilkes County to Montgomery County.

Get out on the Blueway!

The Yadkin River Blueway is a water path, just like a greenway is a footpath, designed to encourage people to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of our state. Along the way you’ll find launch points, camping locations, and places to fish.

Wilkes County is lucky to have four official access points on the Yadkin River Blueway:

Tailwater Access in Wilkesboro

Smoot Park Access in North Wilkesboro

Roaring River Access at 9214 Elkin Highway

Ronda Access at Ronda Memorial Park

Don’t let a lack of water equipment keep you from enjoying the beauty of the Yadkin River. Rent your own equipment at Cook’s Outfitters or Foothills Outdoor Adventures. Both provide shuttle services and can help with local information about the conditions on the river.

Staying Safe on the Water

Whatever type of outdoor adventure you choose, it’s important to keep safety top of mind. Here are a few tips to stay safe while enjoying some time on the Yadkin River.

• Always wear a life jacket.
• Check the weather. If it looks like a chance of storms, wait until the storms pass or plan your outing for a different day.
• Dross for the conditions. Wear layers if it’s a cooler season, and bring sunglasses, a hat with a brim and plenty of sunscreen in the summer months. Also, plan to get wet, and dress accordingly.
• Put your cell phone and other electronics in plastic bags.
• Paddle with a buddy. It’s smarter to go in twos or groups, so if something happens, you have someone who can go for help.
• Always let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
• Know your own ability. Don’t set out for a float or paddle that is longer than you can physically manage.

Plan your trip down the Yadkin River Blueway today! Check out our site for some great places to eat and stay while you’re here.