Our 2025 Paddling Preparedness Education Eco-Tour will be held on April 19 from 10 AM - 4 PM.

Build the skills you'll need to safely and confidently explore local waterways! Using curriculum from the American Canoe Association, this training will cover water safety, basic paddling instruction, trip planning logistics, and equipment. Join Mission Experience Manager and paddling pro Greg Nance on a beautiful and less-traveled section of the Catawba River and gain the tools you'll need to start planning your own river excursions!

Location:  For this event, we will meet at the North Bend Boating Access Area parking lot in Morganton, NC, better known as the Bridgewater Section of the Catawba.  At the end of the paddle, an activity bus and trailer will be waiting to shuttle our boats and gear back to your vehicles.

Cost:  Eco-Tour Tickets are $90 each. Click the button below to buy yours today!

Difficulty & Experience Level:  This section has mild rapids and flat to gently flowing water, providing a perfect learning environment for the aspiring river runner. This trip is geared toward the adventurous beginner to intermediate paddler.

Other Event Information:  Be sure to bring your own lunch with you, and we will pause to enjoy it along the river.

What We Provide:

• Kayak, Paddle, and PFD
• On-water guides to support you 
• A shuttle bus back to the put-in

What You Provide:

• Clothing and shoes for on the water and something dry to change into at the end of the day (no bare feet or flip flops on the water)
• A Water Bottle, Snacks, and Lunch
• Sunscreen and Bug Spray
• A hat for sun protection and sunglasses with a strap attached
• A dry box or bag for your belongings or essential medications that could be needed in case of emergency