Blueways are typically developed by state, county or local municipalities to encourage recreation, ecological education and preservation of wildlife resources.
The Yadkin River Blueway is a water path or trail with launch points, camping locations and points of interest for fisherman, canoeists, paddle boarders, tubers and kayakers.
The Yadkin is designated as a State Blueway Trail with a connected series of river access points from Wilkes County to Montgomery County.
It’s heatin’ up here in North Wilkesboro with this weekend’s forecast calling for sunshine and a high of 89! So, what better way to soak up the sun than roll on down the River as Tina Turner would say (maybe not her intentions, but I’m sure she would agree with me!).
The Yadkin River Blueway is a water trail with launch points, camping locations and areas of interest for fisherman, canoeists, paddle boarders, tubers and kayakers. Right now, it exists as a collection of disparate trails across Wilkes County and stretches all the way to Montgomery County!
Currently, the Town of North Wilkesboro is working on a special project to map out a clear Blueway trail in collaboration with various agencies, including the Yadkin Valley Heritage Corridor, Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, the Health Foundation, and other area representatives.
Though you’re able to float on down Yadkin now, the new and improved Blueway trail will feature maps and other signage along the River that will allow you to ditch your Google Maps and enjoy the scenery (this might save you a few bucks too when you drop that iPhone).
When the Yadkin River Blueway Trail is fully built out, it will feature miles of interconnected public trails that will transform Wilkes County into a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are no cost or time estimates for what it would take to complete the system. But for the people putting it together, the future is beginning to come into focus.
Though the River is mostly flat, there are Class I ripples and a few Class II spots, so please remember to enjoy the Yadkin with a lifejacket and PLENTY of sunscreen!