The Yadkin Riverkeeper is organizing another Tour de Yadkin, an annual month-long paddling trek down 185 miles of the Yadkin River.
From April 2-30, paddlers can kayak or canoe for a few hours or whole days with Dean Naujoks, the Yadkin Riverkeeper.
Each weekend in April, the Riverkeeper will stop along the river for community festivities that celebrate a cleaner river.
The Tour de Yadkin is sponsored by REI in Greensboro, a outdoor-gear retailer that supports conservation efforts nationwide.
Billed as Paddle and Party for a Clean River, events throughout the month include:
• 9 a.m. April 3: Tour de Yadkin Kick-Off Paddle at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir.
• 5:30 p.m. April 5: Historic River Walk with musician, R.G. Absher. Take in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and hear stories about George Washington, ghost stories and the history of the river. Meet at Coffee House Tavern, 1401 Willow Lane, North Wilkesboro.
• 1 p.m. April 9: Munchies, Bluegrass Music and Free Wine Tasting at Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery in Elkin. Optional paddle at 9 a.m.
• 8:30 a.m. April 16: Earth Day River Clean-Up with REI, at Old 421 Park
• 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 17: Picnic on the River. Paddle from Huntsville to Tanglewood Park in Winston-Salem for a picnic on the river
• 11 a.m. April 23: Easter on the River at Tamarac Marina on High Rock Lake. Easter egg hunt
• April 30: Final Paddle Day on the Uwharrie River at Morrow Mountain State Park and wrap-up party at Badin Inn.
Participation in all events is free.
Paddlers are encouraged to provide their own equipment, but may rent canoes or kayaks directly from Yadkin River Adventures, SuperFly Outdoor Sports or God’s Country Outfitters.
Additionally, people can donate $10 to Sponsor a Mile in support of the Yadkin Riverkeeper. There is a $5 fee per person for liability coverage for events on the water.
For more information, visit www.yadkinriverkeeper.org or call 336-722-4949.