Getting out to play on the water doesn’t have to end with the last days of summer. There are lots of fun group paddling opportunities to look forward to during these warm September days.
Group social paddles are a great way to learn new routes and discover the beautiful waterways that run through Knox County.
Every weekend this month, River Sports Outfitters offers rentals for the five-mile paddle from Seven Islands State Birding Park to Cruz Landing. The trip lasts two or three hours depending on the current and sightseeing opportunities. Join fellow paddlers for this scenic trip on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. or Sunday afternoons at 1 p.m.
For the balanced paddlers, join a SUP yoga group 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at the Cove, and 9-11 a.m. Saturdays at Meads Quarry. Whether you are a first-time paddler or seasoned athlete, practicing yoga on a SUP challenges your balance and flexibility and provides a whole-body workout, all in the peaceful serenity of the outdoors. Between breathing fresh air, soaking up vitamin D and enjoying the natural landscape, it is a refreshing union with nature.
If are new to the sport, get your feet wet by joining the Paddleboard 101 class offered by Billy Lush Boards at 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. The 1.5-hour class covers equipment overview, safety and awareness of the conditions, balancing, correct stance, four paddle strokes, steering and turning, proper paddling form and more. You’ll be all set for the social paddles by next weekend.
Find even more paddling and a wide range of outdoor activities on the full OutdoorKnoxville.com calendar. See you on the water!