Saxapahaw Tube & Hike (Self-Guided)
Go on a Haw River adventure on high-quality, durable tubes! After checking in and receiving their inflated tube, life jacket, and optional paddle, guests take a short nature walk up the riverside trail and are free to put in at either Saxapahaw Lake or in the mill race under the dam. The lake offers a gentle, no-flow, out & back experience, while the mill race will float tubers down a series of small rapids, with multiple take-out options along the Haw River Trail and Saxapahaw Island Park just a short hike from town.
Please note that we do not offer a shuttle option for tubers at this time! Guests who float down the river are responsible for walking their tubes and gear back to our office. The recommended take-outs for a float from the mill race range in trip duration from about 10 to 40 minutes, including the walk back. With up to 3 hours to return their tubes, guests are free to take multiple floats down the river, or switch between the river and the lake.
The downriver float is affected by water levels. Please review the usgs water level gauge before making a booking to ensure appropriate water levels for your group. 2.3 to 4 feet on the gauge is ideal. Under 2 feet, you’ll likely have to stand up and walk your tube occasionally. Higher levels will mean a shorter but more exciting run!
While we encourage hydration, please note that we do not allow glass or alcohol on the river.