Kayaking & Canoeing on the Harpeth River
Four weeks ago the Harpeth River was overflowing its banks in Nashville, Kingston Springs, and many other towns in the Middle Tennessee area.
Middle Tennessee received a record rainfall in a 48 hour time span.
The Harpeth River overflowed its banks flowing over bridges, washing out train tracks & trestles, and washing at least four homes right off their foundation. It flooded hundreds and hundreds of homes, some right to the roof tops, and shut down miles of Interstate 40 in both directions.
The town of Kingston Springs became an Island surrounded by flood water.
Today, the Harpeth River has receded back to its normal level, looking like it always does as if nothing has happened except for trees pushed down along the banks.
I have been kayaking and canoeing the Harpeth River for over 12 years. The last time I kayaked the Harpeth was three weeks before the flood. I paddled a 12 mile stretch of river I had never paddled before. I started at the McCrory Lane put – in and paddled down to the Kingston Springs City Park. It was peaceful and beautiful.
If you are looking for a place to kayak or canoe you need to paddle the Harpeth River. Although some put – ins are still closed because of the flood, there are still many put – ins and take – outs along the river to fit your paddling ability. Click here to go to the Tennessee State Parks Website for the latest information on The Harpeth River.
If you are looking for canoe & kayak outfitters you have your pick of several right here in Kingston Springs. Just Google: canoeing Kingston Springs.
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A reader wrote to ask: Do you know anywhere along the Harpeth River that I can put in and take out in the same place?
Here’s our answer: Unfortunately, there is really no area where you can put in and take out in the same place. Prior to the flood, there was a “loop” – you could put in at Narrows of the Harpeth, paddle about 5 miles, and take out at Harris Street Bridge. A short hike through the woods would bring you back to the put in. I’ve done that loop a few times. But the flood destroyed the Narrows put in and according to the park web site it is closed until further notice. Hopefully, they’ll get it cleaned out and back in working condition soon.
Another option for you is to call one of the Kingston Spring Canoe/Kayak outfitters. Sometimes for a fee they will portage you and your boat.
Another place to paddle is Brush Creek Park off of River Road in Ashland City. We’ve put in there and paddled out to the Cumberland. You will have to turn around and paddle up stream to get back. But we do it and its never been that bad. There’s lots to see out there too, but be careful of the speed boats and barges.
Cheatham Dam Park is another good place, but again due to the flood the area is closed for now. But when it reopens, that is a great place to paddle too – easy in, easy out.
Keep checking the Harpeth River State Park web site (http://www.tennessee.gov/environment/parks/HarpethRiver/). If they open up the Narrows put in, that’s a real nice loop.
I’ve read on a couple of sites that the harpeth offers kayaking beginners to advanced. I was curious where the more advanced spots might be? My wife and I have taken it from the hwy100 put in to the campground in Ashland city. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
The Harpeth is generally calm througout in our experience. The only time the water class changes is when the level rises. So after a big or extended rain period the river gets faster and rougher. If you’re looking for rapids, try some of the rivers in East TN.