How To Plan A Canoe Harpeth River Trip

By Sharon Murray


Some would say that the way to get in true touch with the wilderness apart from hiking the great outdoors will be to do it like the early North American explorers in the early days in either a canoe or kayak. This road that is very much less traveled has been one that has been enjoyed also by Native Americans of this great continent. A good suggestion to have a go at this wilderness experience is to try out a canoe Harpeth River trip. Do read on in this article to make the most of your experience.

A checklist is definitely needed for you to enjoy your trip more. This checklist will not only contain things of what you need to bring or to buy but also the things that you need to do, either physically or mentally or otherwise. Remember that a checklist is a good assistant to have around to make sure all your bases are covered.

The first thing on your checklist is to choose where you want to go. In this case you have chosen Harpeth River in Tennessee. This waterway is one of the major tributaries for the Cumberland River and together with the Ohio river, forms the Mississippi River watershed. Once you have chosen your river basically, then you must study it well.

Knowing where the whitewater areas and rapids are is a good piece of information to have. The main whitewater systems are located in the Little Harpeth River, a tributary to the main one. It is suggested that you stay away from this area until you have become more seasoned as a canoe rower or paddler as the case may be.

Most of the main waterway is smooth sailing but meandering. Meandering meaning that it takes many twists and turns and as such currents will change whether it is within or outside the curves. It will pay to ask for locations of strong currents and directions from more seasoned guides in the area.

A next important to do item on your list is to get a good guide. Find one who has great experience and an impeccable safety record. In finding more about your prospective guide, do interview them to the point of exhaustion and ask as much information as possible. Remember that your safety and enjoyment go hand in hand.

A fun part of the beginning of the trip is buying things and gearing up. Although this may cost a lot sometimes is due to the fact you may be buying unnecessary things. Look into forums and other such sources to see what you actually need for your trip, and do not worry as most things can already be bought online rather than you running around.

And most importantly do sit around with your mates and buds and list down what you want to do in the trip and if it is practical. Discuss how long you want to stay out also. As canoe trips and such are quite exhausting, it is suggested that you do not make such a trip too long.




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