‘Paddle the Pacolet’ Returns After More Than a Decade

The Much-Anticipated Event resumes in Spartanburg

The much-anticipated ‘Paddle the Pacolet’ event is set to return after more than a decade. The Town of Pacolet, located in Spartanburg, is bringing back this popular celebration on Saturday, September 7, at the Pacolet River.

Events of the Day

The return of the event will feature 8-mile and 4-mile guided kayak tours beginning from Clifton Beach and culminating at Pacolet’s local fishing pier. Once the spirited paddling concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to unwind with live music and succulent food provided by local establishments.

Patrick Kay, Pacolet’s Town Administrator, shared the enthusiasm behind reviving the event. “We just want to show the people outside as well as inside the Town of Pacolet, that we’re a fun place to be,” said Kay. “More people coming to our community, more people having a great time, more people enjoying the outdoors here in Pacolet. That’ll spur on more growth, more businesses, more people wanting to be here.”

A Nature Therapy

Christine LeClaire, co-founder of Vintage View Adventures, has been monumental in making this event possible. She shares Kay’s belief about the underutilization of Pacolet River. The return of ‘Paddle the Pacolet’ is a move towards changing this scenario. LeClaire has been called upon to guide those unfamiliar with the river or inexperienced with kayaking.

“Most weekends, we have people that grew up here in Pacolet, grew up here in Spartanburg County, and have never been on the river,” said LeClaire. “I like to call the river ‘naturerific’. Lots of great nature, quiet. You’re going to get a lot of nature therapy.”

Safety Measures

The organizers have ensured safety through collaborations with local fire departments. Attendees will have the chance to rent kayaks or bring their own, and stand-up paddle-boards will also be available. Kay added that Spartanburg Water would increase the river’s level a day prior to the event to facilitate easy paddling near Clifton Beach, with the current gradually slowing as participants approach the fishing pier.

A New Tradition Reborn

With the magnitude of excitement and anticipation surrounding the revival of this community tradition, the Town of Pacolet is ready to welcome residents and visitors alike to enjoy, explore, and embrace the natural beauty of the Pacolet River.

“I’ve been assured by the weather gods and the kayak gods out there, it’ll be clear, it’ll be a little bit overcast, and it’ll be kind of cool. You will enjoy this great time on the river,” Kay promises, adding an element of excitement for the attendees.