Choose your own adventure: Upstate paddle trips for all skill and thrill levels

As Upstate Forever’s Clean Water & GIS Manager (that’s GIS for geographic information system) I spent a lot of time working with maps. When I joined the UF team in 2013, one of the first big projects I worked on was our initiative to reconnect people to the Upstate’s rivers. This gave me the unique opportunity to paddle many of the Upstate’s blueways and experience the diversity of river recreation offered in our own backyards firsthand. The Upstate has rivers in rural and urban, rivers wide and narrow, laid back and thrilling — there’s truly something for everyone!

Today, I want to share a few of the fantastic paddle trips I discovered across the Upstate. You'll find Paddle SC links with trip information and downloadable maps below. Happy paddling!

If you like safe challenges and wildlife encounters, try the Saluda River. 
This river is easygoing with a hint of flair and perfect for those wanting a bit more of an exciting challenge. One of my favorite trips starts at Dolly Cooper Park and ends in Piedmont, SC. You’ll encounter a few mild rapids, plenty of flat water, and even a heron or two if you look hard enough. Find trip details here

If you crave wide open spaces (cue The Chicks), head out to the Broad River.
My husband David and I loved the Broad River. It felt vast and exciting but still safe and convenient. We paddled from the Broad River Greenway to the Big Bay River Access and didn’t see another person the whole time. We found a cool rock outcrop to enjoy our packed lunch and saw a ton of wildlife. Find trip details here 

If you’re looking for some short-lived drama, the Pacolet River has what you want.
This is one of my favorite river adventures I’ve had in the Upstate! One year for Staff Fun Day, Upstate Forever staff took a guided trip down the Pacolet from Clifton Beach to Goldmine Road and it was a thrilling adventure for my beginner-paddler-self. We encountered many rapids and had a great time maneuvering down the river. I’d do this trip again in a heartbeat! Find trip details here

If you like binge-watching 5 seasons of anything on Netflix, maybe a “park-n-paddle” is more your style.
These trips don’t require any car shuffling — simply park your car and get in the water, you’ll begin and end at the same spot! Most of these trips are flat water or reservoirs (an honorable mention this World Rivers Day!), so they’re perfect for short trips, bringing kids, and minimal effort but maximum reward. My favorite spot is Lake Robinson. It is easy to access, has plenty of amenities, and a fantastic view. Find trip details here