Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown, and experience one of the best kayak tours in Charleston. The Ashley River is one of the most significant river systems to the history of Charleston South Carolina, and it looks very much like it did hundreds of years ago. Our kayak tours depart from Bacon's Bridge Landing on Upper Ashley River next to the new Ashley River Park. This location accesses the 22 mile stretch of the designated as a state scenic river corridor. This translates into a pristine feel on the water, with very little development or boat traffic.
No matter what time of year, the upper Ashley River can be home to abundant wildlife and fun adventures for any level paddler. The Upper Ashley is a true birders paradise as we can spot wading bird on the banks, migratory song birds in the forest, and birds of prey in the sky! We encounter a large variety of other wildlife as well, river otters, turtles, and American Alligators! Come at lowtide, and we will search for sharks teeth and fossils in the sand bars! These guided kayak tours are offered year round on a regularly scheduled basis, or can be arranged as a private tour. This trip is suitable for any skill level paddler, and stable yet nimble single or double kayaks are provided.
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW
This kayak trip is available year-round, but is a tidally effected area, so trips are often scheduled accordingly. We post many options online, but if you don't see your preferred date/time on our on-line calendar, give us a shout.
We need a minimum of 4 to run this tour. If the minimum is not met we will give you other time options or refund.
FAQS
WHERE DOES THIS TRIP TAKE PLACE?
The Howard Bridgman River Access at Bacons Bridge. 200 Renkin Dr. Summerville,SC 29485 (located just outside of the Ashley River Park) This accesses the Upper Ashley River Blue Trail. This section offers beautiful blackwater under the canopy of cypress forest. The Ashley River is one of, if not the most historic river in the nation.
IS THIS A GUIDED OR SELF-GUIDED TRIP?
We typically offer this as a guided tour for a variety of reasons. This upper section has a big tide swing(4-7 ft) and there are many trees and obstacles that are not passible at certain tides. On occasion, we can do rentals for groups or if we are already there for a tour. Guided trips also allow us to share our passion and knowledge about all the things that make this river special. Don't worry though, we take a pretty laid back approach and try to tailor things to your style.
WHAT MAKES THIS TRIP UNIQUE?
The Ashley River is one of, if not the most historic rivers in the nation. We will see remnants of Prehistoric creatures, Indigenous/Colonial/Western African/Gullah-Geechee cultures, and ancient cypress trees. This river is also unique in that it is a fairly short river system. This section is right in the middle of the headwaters and the ocean, so it is inhabited by both freshwater and saltwater creatures. Unlike most other lowcountry water ways, this section passes over a phosphorous rock. This is provides a hard river bed and tons of 10 million year old fossils! At lowtide, we can access some prime spots for sharks teeth and fossil hunting.
WHAT IS THE DIFFICULTY LEVEL?
This river is very different at different tides. High tide is a mellow paddle, and when timed right, we are going with the current both ways! Low tide can be a little more adventurous. We tend to see more wildlife on the exposed banks, we can get out and look for shark teeth and fossils, and some sections require a little more effort to pass.
DO YOU RECOMMEND SINGLES OR DOUBLE KAYAKS
Maybe a personality question more than anything else? If you really like to do your own thing, and not worry about anyone else in the boat, than a single is probably your boat. During low water levels, the single is also the way to go, and sometimes the only option. The tandem can be a great option for young kids with adult in the back. We have a set number of singles and tandems available for each trip, so be sure to indicate at time of booking your preference, if you have one.
WILL WE FIND SHARK TEETH AND FOSSILS?
Nothing in life is guaranteed, but at low tide, it's almost guaranteed. We have a few honey holes that typically produce. Because this phosphorous is constantly eroding and we have plenty of water moving both directions with the tide, we have new sediment almost daily. If nothing else, its a nice way to cool off on a hot day! Note: you will typically need to wade in the water to search.
WHAT ARE THE GROUP SIZES?
Our trips range from as few as 2 people, up to 10 participants maximum for public trips. Small trips sizes help to ensure a more intimate and personal experience on the water. Private trips can be arranged for groups of any size, with minimum base rate applied.
WHAT IS IT LIKE ON THE RIVER? IS IT BUGGY?
Looking at the pictures, your first thought is probably "That's got to be the buggiest place ever!" Surprisingly, it's not! One of the best things about blackwater is that it's pretty acidic. This keeps things like mosquitos and especially gnats(no-see-ums) from being able to reproduce. It's not usually buggy at all. There may be a few here and there, but usually less than anywhere else in town.
The forest does a great job of regulating the temperature. In the winter, the wind is blocked. The trees don't have leaves that time of year, so if the sun is out, it feels warmer than the surrounding area. In the summer, the shade of the trees and the cool water create a pocket of cooler temps.
Also, people always expect the water to stink, it doesn't! This was considered a safe drinking source back in the day.