Thursday, November 13, 2014

To Kayak Harpeth River Is A Bucket List Adventure Beyond Compare

By Mayra Pierce


The epic Harpeth River that curves through six counties in Middle Tennessee is probably one of the most scenic and diverse destinations for kayaking. Teeming with wildlife, this 125 mile long fresh water river offers boaters and floaters a smorgasbord of outdoor fun activities in supreme surroundings. To kayak Harpeth River is a Bucket List adventure beyond compare.

Competitive kayak enthusiasts can challenge the rapids and falls of rushing mountain streams, while gentler waters allow paddlers to fish or enjoy the beautiful landscapes floating by. Whether you want a roaring whitewater rafting adventure, a lazy float down a tranquil stream or a sightseeing cruise, the sparkling waters of the Harpeth has something for everyone's liking.

Few things beat the sense of well-being one derives from spending a day out in nature. Imagine gliding down a sun-kissed river with nothing but the sound of birds and gentle lapping water to accentuate the peace. A vigorous paddle to challenge the rapids and falls is equally invigorating.

This is where the great blue heron and king fisher feed and breed. The shores abound with deer, wild turkey, geese, ducks and other waterfowl. Bring your binoculars and spend a quiet, relaxing afternoon paddling among tree-lined river banks where the bald eagle nests high above in the cypress trees.

Another popular option is guided excursions and day trips, that include paddling instruction by American Canoe Association certified guides. These guided group trips also include kayak rental, all the necessary gear as well as a convenient shuttle service back to your vehicle. Customized trips for up to 20 people can be arranged.

Few things are so exhilarating and uplifting as spending a day at the water. Kayaking is not only an excellent form of outdoor exercise, but also allows paddlers an unobstructed view of the most exquisite creatures and features of the areas where they practice their sport. From the vantage point of the river one sees hidden treasures that are not visible from other directions.

Kayaking is also a sport that the whole family can enjoy, no matter what their level of experience. While mom and the kids enjoy a gentle glide downstream, dad can shoot the rapids. The Harpeth offers plenty opportunity for family fun in the sun. One can just pack the binoculars, a picnic basket and embark upon a slow, sightseeing paddle to some of the beautiful pools and picnic spots.

Some of the popular tourist attractions and heritage sites are the ancient Indian burial mounds and the 14-foot waterfall at the Narrows of the Harpeth. A beautiful pond at the bottom of the roaring waterfall is a famous landmark and marks the site where Montgomery Bell's iron forge used to be. One can visit these treasures on foot, but it you really want a mesmerizing close-up view of these majestic cliffs and waterfall, you must see it from the vantage point of a kayak.




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