Higher Pursuits paddling route on the Duck River
Higher Pursuits currently offers kayak and canoe rental service on one paddling route on the Duck River. The Duck River has deep slow pools mixed with faster moving water. It is a great river for both novice paddlers and experienced paddlers.
This paddling route is 5.5 miles, and it is an easygoing Class I with very few swift spots (this is the route we recommend for first time paddlers, large groups or groups with young kids).
This section of the river flows through the Yanahli Wildlife Management Area making this a scenic paddle with very few roads, houses, or buildings. It has been designated a State Scenic River and is home to a diverse population of freshwater mussels, birds, freshwater otters, beavers, minks and numerous species of fish. Learn more about the Duck River
On the route there is a spot you can call us to let us know that you are almost done so we can meet you at the end of your trip and bring you back to the canoe base.
Previously we offered an 8.5-mile route. The paddling conditions on the Carpenter Bridge route has prevented us from operating on that route for the last several years. If we are able to offer this longer route again, we will post on facebook with this new paddling opportunity.
Description of the Cheeks Bend Route – 5.5 Mile
- This is a great route for first time paddlers, large groups and groups with young children
- Time to Paddle: 3 to 5 hours
- Length: approximately 5 1/2 miles
- Starts: Leftwich Bridge on Sowell Mill Pike (1/4 mile from the canoe base)
- Ends: Howard Bridge on Fred White Road
- Accessibility: The access is just a 1/4 mile from the canoe base. It is a gravel access and well maintained. The ending boat ramp is a concrete boat ramp. If you have limited mobility this is the best route for you.
- Group Size Limits: The Cheeks Bend Route is perfect for youth groups, church groups, scouts, etc. Typically we recommend that groups keep their numbers to 25 people or less so that there are places where the entire group can stop together.
- Drive Time to Put In: 5 minutes
- Drive Time from Take Out: About 15 minutes
Features: This section of the river features remote paddling through the Yanahli Wilderness Management Area. The trip is highlighted by several picturesque rock bluffs along the river as well as opportunity to see various forms of wildlife found along the Duck River. Along Cheeks Bend there are several large caves visible from the river. The river is gentle along this section and has very few swift spots. There are good gravel bars for groups to stop for lunch, play in the water, and just relax.
Special Notes: Check our hours of operation for our last drop off time and last pick-up of the day based on the time of year.
