For Anyone In The Region Who Owns A Kayak Harpeth River Is The Ultimate Choice

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By Mayra Pierce


The 125 mile long Harpeth River that meanders through the prolific hills and valleys of Middle Tennesse is a wildlife paradise of unsurpassed beauty for outdoor adventurists and water lovers. The fresh water river is not only host to a wide and diverse variety of aquatic species, but allegedly also to the ghost of the late iron industrialist Montgomery Bell. For anyone in the region who owns a kayak Harpeth River is the ultimate choice.

Not many rivers offer such a long stretch of boating and floating opportunities. Paddlers can choose from a variety of short and longer trips varying from 90 minutes to 8 hours. Whether you want a slow, relaxing paddle or a action-packed vigorous white-water challenge, the Harpeth offers ample opportunities for paddlers of all levels of competency.

Visitors can launch their kayaks from any of a number of launching and take-off sites along the river. If you do not have your own canoe or kayak, you can rent some top of the class-gear at local outfitters. Another option is the guided day trips and group excursions offered by various companies. Knowledgeable, certified guides accompany groups of up to 20 people on sightseeing and fun trips that even include paddling instruction.

Visitors can bring their own boat or kayak, rent one or opt for a chartered cruise down the river. Several companies also provide kayak lessons of varying length and level to beginners and more advanced paddlers. Kayaking is not only a wonderful cardiovascular sport, but also a great way to meet new friends and spend family time together in beautiful surroundings.

Myriads of fish breed and feed in the prolific waters and anglers can have a ball hooking some bass or trout in the designated areas. Along the tree-lined shores and river banks, waterfowl, white-tail deer, wild turkey and many other indigenous birds and fauna can be seen frolicking in the sky or on land. It is an amazing experience to watch all these beautiful animals in their natural, pristine habitat.

There are various launch and access points for boats and kayaks along the river. You can bring your own kayaks or rent some from local commercial outfitters who also offer guided day trips and group excursions of varying duration along the river. Some companies also provide kayak lessons to paddlers of all levels.

The view from a boat or kayak is exquisite. The Harpeth offers some of the most scenic rides in the world. Floating up- and downstream, one gets an eagle's eye view of forests, agricultural landscapes and suburban areas as the river snakes through the diverse landscapes of six counties in the greater Nashville region. The beauty of the cliffs, waterfalls and surrounding mountains can only truly be appreciated from the close-up vantage point of a boat.

Popular tourist attractions along the river such as Indian burial mounds and the waterfall where Montgomery Bell used to power an iron mill can also be seen from the river. There are several picnic areas and hiking trails where visitors can relax and explore the beauty of the area after a fun-filled day on the water. Bring the binoculars, cameras and fishing rod - a better place for kayaking and outdoor relaxation than the banks and waters of the Harpeth is hard to find.




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