June 2026 Paddle - Burnt Mill Creek to Smith Creek to NE Cape Fear to Cape Fear River

Join us as we continue our exploration of the Cape Fear River Basin by boat! This month, we will paddle a route that spans four waterways, with Downtown Wilmington in view. Our trip will start us off back in Burnt Mill Creek, into the marshes of Smith Creek, under the Isabel Holmes Bridge on the Northeast Cape Fear River, then passing by the riverwalk on the main stem of the Cape Fear River, before finishing off below the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. 

Meet: No later than 8:30 a.m.

Put-in: Archie Blue Park

Take-out: Dram Tree Park

Route direction is tide-dependent, we will update in advance if the put-in and take-out locations will be swapped. 

All paddlers should wear a PFD. Paddlers using CFRW boats are required to wear a PFD. Other items to remember to pack include sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses, water, snack/lunch and water shoes. If you have an allergy that is severe, remember to bring your epi-pen or medication.

We have a limited number of boats available to CFRW Members for a suggested donation ($25 per boat; includes PFD and paddle). If you would like to use a CFRW boat, please indicate so during your registration. For this paddle, we are only offering single kayaks. If you need join or renew prior to the paddle, you can click here or call our office at 910-762-5606.

To help CFRW continue to bring you engaging programs like our paddle series, water quality monitoring, and educational seminars, we ask you that make a $10 donation either online with your registration or by bringing cash or check to the paddle on Saturday. THANK YOU!

If you need help the day of, please call Kemp at 910-264-8036. Conditions may change in the period leading up to the paddle. Please check your email the night before and the morning of the paddle to ensure that the paddle has not been cancelled.