Kayak Programs

Burlington Recreation & Parks Outdoor Programs, provides many opportunities for guided and facilitated kayaking programs. The kayak season generally runs from mid-April to the end of October. The current paddling season is over, but will return in spring of 2019! 

SUNSET PADDLES


Guilford Mackintosh Park & Marina | 1345 NC 61, Whitsett
Ages: 13 and up. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Fee: $20/person; $8/person with personal boat.
*Sunset Paddles have concluded for the season - check back in May 2019!

Let your stress melt away as you enjoy a leisurely, 2-hour guided paddle. Paddlers will have a guide who provides basic paddling instruction as needed and leads the group on the lake. Fee includes kayak, paddle, PFD, lake fees and guide.

Intro to Kayaking


Guilford Mackintosh Park & Marina |  1345 NC 61, Whitsett
Ages: 13 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Fee: $30. Registration required. 
*Classes have concluded for the season - check back in May 2019!

A class for new or beginner paddlers to build confidence and skills on the water. Class covers water safety, fitting PFD and kayak, getting in/out of the boat, launching from shore, proper and efficient paddle strokes. Half the class is on the land and half on the water. Fee includes instructor, kayak rental, PFD and paddle. 

Custom Kayak Programs


Available at any City Lake Marina from late April thru October
Ages: 11 and up
Fee: Varies. Contact us for a quote - typically between $20-$40/person.
*Programs have concluded for the season - check back in Spring 2019!


Private, small group kayak programs are available by appointment and availability of instructors/guides for groups up to 7. Email Melissa, the Outdoor Program Coordinator, for more information on setting up a program. Programs include the following, but we can customize or create a program based on your needs.

  • Intro to Kayaking
    A class for new or beginner paddlers to build confidence and skills on the water. Cover the basics of kayaking: water safety, fitting PFD and kayak, getting in/out of the boat, launching from shore, proper and efficient paddle strokes. Half the class is on-land and half on-water. Class taught by ACA certified kayak instructor. Participants should be comfortable around water and have basic swimming abilities. 
  • Youth Paddle Clinic
    Youth learn all about kayaking from an ACA certified kayak instructor. Clinic covers everything from water safety, fitting your PFD, parts of the kayak, how to properly get in and out of the boat, basic paddle stokes and more. We'll save some time to paddle and explore the lake as well! Clinic includes on-land and on-water lessons. Students should know how to swim and be prepared to be active throughout the clinic.
  • Guided Group Paddles
    Let us provide the kayaks, gear and guide to help your group explore the lake safely and confidently. Guide will provide basic instruction, assist the group during launching/landing as well as lead the group on the water to the best spots on the lake. Fees includes solo kayaks (up to 7), paddles, PFDs, lake fees and guide.