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Wilson Creek NC and Johns River NC are just two of the popular kayaking destinations in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains and are located right next to The Coves Mountain River Club.  From world-class competitive events to the chance to paddle leisurely through the spectacular scenery and slow moving rivers, kayakers are drawn year-round to the beauty of Western North Carolina’s natural resources.

In addition to the adventure aspect of water sporting activities, kayaking provides numerous health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, low wear and tear of tissues, and increased muscle strength around the legs, arms, chest and back.

Here are the top ten kayak runs (with rapids classifications) close to some of the gated communities near Asheville NC which includes The Coves:

• Johns River, Burke County that runs 6.5 miles long with Class I-II (Easy and Novice)
• Wilson Creek that offers Class I-III (Easy to Intermediate) and runs 4 miles long
• The 1.9 miles long Wilson Creek with Class III-V (Intermediate to Expert)
• The 18 miles Catawba River- Henry Fork offering Class I-III (Easy to Intermediate)
• Wilson Creek, Caldwell County stretching 6.6 miles long with Class II-III (Novice to Intermediate
• Steel Creek with Class II-III (Novice to Intermediate) runs 6.6 miles long
• Catawba River McDowell with Class I-II (Easy and Novice) is 8.5 miles long
• The 5-mile long Wilson Creek with Class IV (Advanced)
• Gragg Prong River offers 1.6 miles long stretch with Class IV-V (Advanced and Expert)
• The upper creek with Class III-IV (Intermediate to Expert) runs 17 miles long

The calm waters of the Catawba River are ideal for all skill levels.  Slow-moving water carries you over 3.5 miles from the Fort Mill dam to the Riverwalk.  Or, you can move at a faster pace through 2.75 miles of rapids.  Kayaking clinics and individual instruction are available.

You can join a group in Morganton for the six-mile Bridgewater Paddle.  It takes about three hours, with opportunities to hone your skills as you’re introduced to the thrill of white water kayaking.

Price Lake, near Blowing Rock, is the largest body of water on the Blue Ridge Parkway and a very popular spot for kayaking.  You can bring your own craft or rent one on site.  If you’re there during the fall foliage season, a calm day will reward you with a stunning view of Grandfather Mountain reflected in the water, along with the sky and surrounding trees.

Wilson Creek NC in Lenoir is known for its water quality, fast moving currents and rugged views.  There are areas for all skill levels, with the upper part of the stream being the most challenging and the gorge reserved for the most experienced kayakers.  Some of the bigger rapids include:

• Mank Above 10ft
• Ten Foot Falls
• No Name
• Boatbuster
• Thunderhole
• Triple Drop
• Bitchslap
• Hidden Eddy
• Razorback
• Huntley’s Retreat

Finally, flowing from the Pisgah National Forest, Johns River NC runs through Wilson Creek to Lake Rhodhiss, and The Coves Mountain River Club sits on five miles of its banks.  Residents and visitors alike enjoy the Johns River blend of adventure and slow-moving fun.  It’s one of the iconic features of the foothills, where rapids, streams and clean mountain-fed rivers create a nature lover’s paradise.

You’ll find a number of gated communities near Asheville NC, but we know there is nothing else quite like The Coves Mountain River Club.  Here, you can find riverfront property that puts world-renowned North Carolina trout fishing, boating and more right at your own back door.  And our mild four season weather lets you take advantage of outdoor activities no matter what the season.

We offer the most diverse selection of property in the area, from quarter-acre cottage lots to estates that are 25 acres in size.  With our on-site equestrian center set along the Johns River, the mountaintop Pisgah Mountain Lodge and wellness amenities which include an infinity-view swimming pool, you’ll enjoy the mountain lifestyle of your dreams in a scenic setting. You’ll even have a front row seat when the foliage begins its remarkable color changes in the fall. Our lodge is the perfect place to enjoy the kaleidoscope of colors while enjoying Monday morning yoga.

If you’re exploring mountain towns in North Carolina, be sure to stop by let us show you all that we have to offer. Call us at 828.754.0700!

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84 page Complimentary Magazine