The past couple of years have seen a boom in North Carolina tourism.

Raleigh, in particular, is renowned for its vibrant urban culture. It also boasts many natural wonders.

Kayaking in Raleigh is a great way to immerse oneself in the city’s water-based beauty. With serene lakes, winding rivers and lush preserves, Raleigh offers a diverse landscape.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned paddler or a novice eager to dip your paddle. Either way, the waters await you. Read on to learn about the best spots, essential tips, and launch points for your aquatic adventure.

Exploring Raleigh’s waterways

There’s no shortage of wonderful lakes and more in Raleigh. You can challenge yourself and try to visit them all or stick with one or two favorite spots. Are you wondering which ones are most popular?

Lake Raleigh

Nestled within North Carolina State University’s campus, Lake Raleigh offers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling cityscape. This picturesque lake provides an ideal setting for leisurely paddles and wildlife observation.

Kayakers can glide along its serene waters, taking in the surrounding scenery of lush greenery and diverse birdlife. With convenient access points and calm waters, Lake Raleigh welcomes paddlers of all skill levels.

Lake Johnson Park

Located just over two miles away from NC State’s campus, the park is a popular spot for students and pros to get exercise. The park has a three-mile, paved greenway loop and two additional miles of unpaved trails.

The lake itself is more than 150 acres and offers a wide variety of boats and kayaks to rent. The boats can be renteed seven days per week.

Lake Wheeler Park

Built in 1956 with help from the Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Wheeler was once Raleigh’s secondary axuiliary water-supply lake. Since 2010, it’s been hte city’s primary water supply for Raleigh and surrounding communities in Wake County.

Water sports activities, such as skiing and tubing are allowed on the lake, but swimming is not. City residents can pay $5 per day to launch their boats, while non-Raleigh residentspay $7 a day, with adults over 55 years old paying $3 per day.

The park also offers kayaks and stand up paddleboards near the Waterfront Center in lockers. You can reserve the equipment in the lockers online here.

Lake Crabtree County Park

For those seeking a more extensive kayaking experience, Lake Crabtree County Park is a must-visit destination. Located just minutes from downtown Raleigh, this expansive lake attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its ample paddling opportunities.

Kayakers have the option to explore the lake’s winding channels, hidden coves and secluded islands, all while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding parkland. With designated launch areas and amenities such as boat rentals and picnic areas, Lake Crabtree County Park offers everything you need for a memorable kayaking adventure.

Robertson Millpond Preserve

Veer off the main path and discover the serene beauty of Robertson Millpond Preserve. Tucked away in eastern Wake County, this hidden gem boasts a pristine millpond surrounded by lush forests and tranquil wetlands.

You can paddle through narrow waterways, marveling at the reflections of towering cypress trees and abundant wildlife. With its peaceful ambiance and unspoiled scenery, Robertson Millpond Preserve provides an idyllic escape for nature lovers and paddling enthusiasts alike.

Neuse River Canoe Trail

Embark on a scenic journey along the Neuse River Canoe Trail, a designated waterway stretching over 250 miles through North Carolina’s heartland. While the entire trail offers a myriad of paddling opportunities, the section near Raleigh stands out for its accessibility and diverse landscapes.

Feel free to meander through lush forests, navigate gentle rapids and spot wildlife along the riverbanks. With multiple access points and convenient shuttle services, the Neuse River Canoe Trail provides endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.

Harris Lake County Park

Experience the beauty of nature at Harris Lake County Park, home to a pristine reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and wooded shores. Kayakers can paddle along the lake’s tranquil waters, admiring the scenic vistas and abundant wildlife.

Whether you’re fishing, bird watching, or simply enjoying a leisurely paddle, Harris Lake offers something for everyone. With its well-maintained launch areas and amenities, including hiking trails and picnic spots, the park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Kayaking tips and essentials

Before embarking on your kayaking adventure in Raleigh, it’s important to ensure you’re well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Plan for safety before hitting the water

Safety should always be your top priority when engaging in any water-based activity. One of the major aspects of kayaking safety involves wearing a properly fitted life jacket. This is something that you should have on at all times.

Even if you’re a strong swimmer, unexpected circumstances can crop up. That’s when a life jacket can be a lifesaver during emergencies.

Do you want more kayaking essentials?

It’s crucial to plan ahead before heading out on the water. Always double-check the weather forecast and water conditions. That way, you can ensure they’re suitable for kayaking.

Keep in mind that weather patterns can change on a dime. It’s a good idea to be prepared for any unexpected changes in weather or water conditions.

Before setting out, make sure you have all the essentials packed. Your checklist should include sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget about any navigation tools or communication devices you may need.

Remember to respect the wildlife and environment while kayaking. Feel free to admire wildlife from a distance, but avoid disturbing their natural habitats. Practice leave-no-trace principles by picking up all trash.

Dressing for kayaking

Are you stumped about what to wear during your water adventures? Choose lightweight, quick-drying clothing that’s suitable for water activities. Avoid cotton-based clothing, as it can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet.

Instead, go with dependable synthetic materials that wick away moisture. This tends to provide insulation even when wet.

Remember to bring a trusty hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. This will be especially helpful on sunny days when the glare of the water can be quite intense.

Better paddling for a successful adventure

Do you have little to no experience with kayaking? Proper paddling technique is a great way to boost your enjoyment and efficiency on the water.

Before setting out, take the time to familiarize yourself with basic paddling strokes and techniques. Practice your strokes on calm, flat water. That way, you can build your confidence and proficiency.

Doing this will prepare you to tackle more challenging conditions. Remember to use your entire body when paddling, not just your arms. This is what the pros do to conserve energy and reduce fatigue.

PRYOR, Okla. — Through tiny brushstrokes, Traci Rabbit is honoring her hometown, her heritage, and her father.

The professional artist and Cherokee National Treasure is restoring a landmark mural on the Mayes County Courthouse in Pryor — and she’s doing it for free.

“I’m not only doing this for my community — I’m doing this for my family,” Rabbit said.

The mural is the largest work Traci completed alongside her father, famed artist and Cherokee National Treasure Bill Rabbit. The two spent a year hand-painting it in 1999. It stands on a wall between shade trees in front of the Mayes County courthouse.

Traci’s love of art traces back to childhood, watching her father work.

“He was internationally known, but he was so proud to be from Pryor and his art was viewed internationally. You know, from the White House to the Vatican and just all over,” Rabbit said.
Bill Rabbit passed away in 2012. Traci described him as more than a celebrated artist.

“He was an exceptional human being as well as an exceptional parent,” Rabbit said.

Former Pryor Mayor Jimmy Tramel said the mural has been a gathering place for the community for decades.

“This is a landmark for the city of Pryor, there’s no doubt,” Tramel said.

While the mural’s paint has faded over time, Tramel said the mural’s meaning is still vibrant.

“It’s God and Country! It’s Native American! This is the spirit of Oklahoma,” Tramel said.

Traci began the mural restoration in May, working on it in her spare time alongside running Rabbit Gallery and preparing for major national art shows. She even skipped one show to get started. Oklahoma’s wet June has pushed back her timeline, and she is now about 75% finished. She plans to touch up both sides of the mural.

“The hardest part honestly was recreating the people because they were gone, they were gone, so I was working from reference photos. And there were times I would be working down here, and sit under the shade tree and say, ‘OK, Dad, what’s the next step? You’re going to have to help me because it’s gone,’ and without a doubt, I’d take a break and come back and know where to start — so I know he was spiritually helping me out on the other side. I have no doubt,” Rabbit said.

The last element Traci will restore is the original signature that reads — “Bill and Traci 1999.”

Tramel said Bill Rabbit would have been proud to see his daughter carry on their shared work.

“He’d be tickled. That’s the best way to put it — he’d be tickled looking down, saying ‘that’s my daughter,’” Tramel said.

Traci said she feels her father’s presence every time she picks up a brush.

“I just… know he’s proud,” Rabbit said.

Traci’s art is featured in numerous national parks, and she is also honored as a Cherokee National Treasure. She hopes to have the mural complete by spring. You can find the mural at 1 Court Place in Pryor.

Here’s a link to Rabbit Gallery and Studios to learn more about the Rabbit’s story and their work: https://billandtracirabbit.com/.

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