Mississippi River Canoe Race
 The legends and lure of the Mississippi River go back to Mark Twain’s days and beyond. The “big muddy” holds an element of excitement and awe for those who see it, but especially for those who compete on it.
Wild Side Guide Holly Sherwin did just that in the 20th annual Outdoors, Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race near Memphis. Despite it being her first race in 10 years, Holly braved the river’s swift currents and swirling eddies by paddling her fiberglass sea kayak to third place in the overall women’s category and first place in the women’s sea touring kayak division. Way to go, Holly! Wild Side Guide Cassandra Finch provided play-by-play from the shore.
The Outdoors, Inc. Canoe and Kayak Race is held as part of the Memphis in May festivities. This year’s race is scheduled for May 4.
Be sure to visit www.outdoorsinc.com for more information.
“On the water” is arguably the greatest way to enjoy Tennessee’s natural resources and discover your own wild side! And from the Mississippi River to the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee is loaded with some terrific waters to paddle your canoe, kayak, or even give whitewater rafting a try.
Here’s a list of some of our favorites:
The Buffalo River in Wayne and Perry Counties is a class I and II stream. Call Buffalo River Canoe Rental, Flatwoods, TN (931)589-2755.
Middle Tennessee’s Harpeth River meanders in and around Nashville. Call Tip-a-Canoe for more information: (615)646-7124.
The Elk River in southern middle Tennessee is a Class I float suitable for beginners. Call the Elk River Canoe Rental, in Kelso, TN at (931)937-6886.
The Red River is in Adams, Tennessee offers up occasional rapids, but is suitable for beginners. Call Red River Canoe Rental at (931)696-2768 or 1-800-762-8408.
The Caney Fork River snakes through middle Tennessee offering pastoral floats with occasional rapids and excellent fishing. Call Caney Fork Canoe Trips, in Silver Point, TN at (931)858-4585.
The Duck River flows south of Nashville near Columbia and Chapel Hill, flowing through Henry Horton State Park. Contact Forrest Landing Canoe Livery, (931)364-7874 in Chapel Hill.
The Sequatchie River flows over a 125 mile stretch from the Tennessee River to Crossville. Call Canoe the Sequatchie, in Dunlap, TN. Call (423)949-4400.
The Hiwassee River offers up great fishing, rafting and even tubing. Highway 30 runs beside the river and makes for a great scenic drive. Hiwassee Outfitters, P.O. 62, Reliance, TN. Call 1-800-338-8133.
The Big Pigeon River is a class II - IV river with difficult rapids. Beginners... go somewhere else!!! Call Cherokee Adventures at 1-800-445-7238 for more information.
The Obed River in Wartburg, Tennessee offers whitewater paddling on a Class II through V stream. You need to be an experienced paddler before putting in on this river. Contact the Obed Wild and Scenic River in Wartburg, TN or call (423)346-6924 for more information.
Big South Fork National River- This National Park Service river has it all. You may visit the park’s web site for all the information you need! Or call them at (931)879-3625.
The Ocoee River is located about 45 minutes NE of Chattanooga, and offers up great white water rafting. There are numerous rafting outfitters that offer guided trips. Here’s a web site that will get your started.
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