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Water Paddle Sports in the Heart of Appalachia

Breaks Interstate Park, Breaks, VA

Those who enjoy rafting and kayaking on the Russell Fork River look forward to October each year as they prepare to tackle world-class whitewater. Each Saturday and Sunday during the first four full weekends in October, water is released from the John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, creating Class Five plus rapids on the Russell Fork through the Breaks Gorge.

Different sections of the river provide varying levels of difficulty. Rafters will find Class Two and Three rapids closer to the Flannagan Dam area, and rapids topping Class Five through the Breaks Park area on sections of the river with names like “twenty stitches,” “broken nose,” and “triple drop.” The gradient of the Russell Fork ranges from five feet per mile to an unbelievable 180 feet per mile. One 75-foot stretch, aptly named “El Horrendo,” is considered one of the most difficult in the East.

Pathfinders Outdoor Adventures, Norton, VA

Start planning your paddle adventure in the mountains of Virginia at Pathfinders Outdoor Adventures. They provide adventure travel concierge services, training, and kayak, canoe and standup board rentals for your adventure. A partnership with Trout Unlimited provides assistance for Fly Fishing anglers. Located within 5 to 45 minutes from their location are seven mountain lakes, and abundant streams.

Clinch Valley Outfitters, Dungannon, VA

Want to experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States? The Clinch Valley is home to more than 400 rare plant and animal species. Referred to as “American’s Crown Jewel,” The variety of sport fishes make the Clinch a great destination for anglers. Let The Adventure Begin!

  • Guided Fishing Floats
  • Guided Photography Floats
  • Guided Kayak Floats
  • Kayak Rentals
  • Custom Trips Available

Flannagan Marina & Powersports, Haysi, VA

You can’t ask for a better place for boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and downright good, clean fun! Flannagan Marina offers kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, paddle boat, and boat rentals. They even have a six-person pontoon boat for family enjoyment on the beautiful Flannagan Lake! Have your own boat? Consider a slip at the marina.
Clinch River Adventures, St. Paul, VA Clinch River Adventures is located on the most biodiverse river in America, the Clinch River. They offer tubing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing kayaks and shuttle services for individuals with their own watercraft.

Clinch River Adventures is a great experience for anyone, whether you’re an adventurous kayaker or you just want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing float down the river on a tube. Check us out on Facebook to see why tourists are visiting Southwest Virginia just to experience Clinch River Adventures!

Clinch Life Outfitters, St. Paul, VA

Clinch Life Outfitters serves as the leader in the outdoor recreation industry in the Clinch River Valley, specifically the region of The Clinch – future home of the Clinch River State Park. Clinch Life Outfitters provides the products, services, and support for a wide range of outdoor recreational activities including fishing, kayaking, hiking, camping, hunting, and ATVing.

Visit HeartOfAppalachia.com to learn more.

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