Learn to Kayak

It's not too late. The deadline for the August 29th beginner kayak lesson has been extended. Contact drba.va@danriver.org or 276-634-2545 for a registration form today!

http://rivers-trails.blogspot.com/2009/08/kayaking-class_03.html

Let's go Biking!

Enjoy a beginner's bike ride along the scenic Fieldale Trail
with Barbara Thompson of Activate M-HC and the Henry County Bike Club!


Saturday August 22nd at 10 a.m.

Bikes and helmets will be available on a first come, first serve basis. FREE!

For questions or more information contact: bthompson@activatemhc.org

Announcing a New River Access!

Enjoy the thrill of paddling at Eggleston Falls? Now it is even easier to get to with the addition of a new river access at the Smith River Sports Complex of Irisburg Road in Axton.

The new canoe/kayak access was completed this week and a grand opening ceremony for it and the complex will be held this Sunday from 2-6 p.m.

The access was funded by the Harvest Foundation and is operated by Henry County Parks & Recreation. It is located on the river between the South Martinsville and Marrowbone Creek River Access ramps. Watch for more amenities to be added in the next few weeks including: landscaping, trashcans, signage, and benches.

The access is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m, and ample parking is available. Due to the fact that it is located inside the gates of the Sports Complex, the access will be closed at night. If you foresee that you might be on the river after 8 p.m. it is recommended that you plan to park your shuttle vehicles in the parking lot outside the gate or at another access point.

Even if you are not parking at this access, it makes for a great stop to take a break mid-way on your paddle. While at the Sports Complex be sure to take a walk on the two miles of trail that wander through the property, stop by the concession stand for a cold drink and snack, and visit their state of the art, modern, playground.

New Business in Martinsville!

Looking for a relaxing afternoon activity or an exciting adventure? You can have one or both of those experiences right here in your backyard in Martinsville & Henry County. Stop by and visit Eric Juday and Tracy Petty of Smith River Adventure Outfitters located at the Indian Heritage RV Park on Tensbury Drive in Martinsville. You can't miss it- it's the only building in town with a bright blue kayak on the front! Eric is an American Canoe Association (ACA) certified instructor. He offers canoe/kayak rentals, guided trips, and lessons. Many different trip options are offered: everything from a calm flatwater paddle, to an adventurous ride down Eggleston Falls. You pick your comfort level and Smith River Adventure Outfitters will provide everything else.

I stopped by for a visit this past week as Smith River Adventure Outfitters took their first clients down the Smith River. Lynn & Ashby Pritchett of Martinsville along with their family from South Carolina spent the afternoon taking a guided paddle trip from the South Martinsville River Access to Marrowbone Creek. Most of the group had never paddled before but had an enjoyable time as Eric gave them instruction and pointers throughout the journey. Everyone wore personal floatation devices (PFDs) and helmets to ensure that their journey was safe as well as fun.

Stop by and visit with the friendly staff of Smith River Adventure Outfitters, browse their collection of paddling accessories for sale, and book your next adventure on the Smith River! Visit http://www.smithriveradventureoutfitters.com/ for more information.

Your Input is Needed!

Please help us! In order to provide you with a high quality recreational experience, we are conducting a survey of trail users of the Smith River Trail System in Martinsville and Henry County Virginia. Your cooperation in completing this survey will be greatly appreciated.

Click this link to begin: http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB229JUH9S6HM

The survey will close on September 19th, please share this link with all your contacts!

To thank you for completing this survey, all participants will be entered into a drawing to win a free t-shirt from The Smith River Trail System's newest trail "The Dick & Willie Passage", a 4.5 mile paved rail trail coming Spring 2010.

(Don't forget to leave your e-mail address at the end of the survey to register for the drawing.)

Gear Up for Your Next Adventure

Time to clean out the garage and upgrade your equipment! Join us at the Dan River Basin Association's (DRBA) Gear Swap- Sunday, September 6th from 2-6 pm at the North Bassett River Access on Trent Hill Drive in Bassett.

If you're looking to get into a new hobby like fly fishing or paddling, buying used gear can help you get started affordably. Come on out and meet other outdoor enthusiasts too!

Admission is free! Sellers may purchase a booth space for $10; no charge for DRBA members (proceeds from the booth fee will benefit DRBA's work on the Smith River Trail System.)

To register for a booth space, contact 276-634-2545 or drba.va@danriver.org for a registration form. DRBA will pre-advertise items for sale for everyone that registers prior to August 24th.

Here's some of the items you'll see at the Gear Swap:

Paddling Gear:
-- Propulsion Technologies PTR 197 Kayak Paddle, blue blades with rienforced tips
-- Old Town Otter Sport Kayak
-- 16 foot Water Quest 3 Person Canoe

Camping Gear:
-- Alpine Peak Internal Frame Backpack, Maroon & Black
-- Assorted Camping Gear, Backpacks, & Sleeping Bags

Books & Guides:
-- Assorted books on Canoeing and Rock Climbing