Boone, NC is the perfect mountain town for a summer getaway filled with hiking and stunning vistas. There’s also an abundance of water activities and places to take a dip! At Graystone Lodge, we have a heated indoor pool for our guests to enjoy year-round. And if you’re looking for outdoor water fun this summer, we’ve got plenty of ideas.
River Tubing in Boone
The New River is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon floating with your squad. It’s a low-key way to enjoy the spectacular scenery and stay cool in the process. Local outfitters abound:
- Wahoo’s (New River Outpost)
- River & Earth Adventures (New River Outpost)
- RiverGirl Fishing Co.
You can also purchase tubes at the Boone Wal-Mart for a more DIY experience.
Tip: Be sure to consult Boone’s handy tubing tips and checklist to ensure a successful outing.
Whitewater Rafting in Boone
You’ll need to drive a little outside of Boone to reach the rapids, which are located in the nearby Watauga River. Boone area outfitters offer full-service trips for all skill levels.
- Wahoo’s Adventures (Watauga River Outpost)
- Edge of the World
- High Mountain Expeditions
- River & Earth Adventures (Watauga River & Cave Outpost)
SUP in Boone
Stand up paddle boarding can be done in either lake or river in Boone. Check out these local outfitters for details:
- Wahoo’s Adventures (New River Outpost)
- Price Lake Boat Rentals
- SUP Yoga at Price Lake
Swimming in Boone
The New Hole is easily accessible, located off River Road near Castleford Bridge. This is where people hop in for tubing and canoeing, but it’s a good depth for swimming, too. Laurel Falls (affectionately known as Trash Can Falls) features a 15-foot waterfall with flat swimming areas above and below the falls. You’ll find it just off Highway 321 across the Watauga River Bridge.
Wildcat Lake has white sandy beaches plus shallow and deeper swimming areas. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer. Admission is free.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Boone
First, decide whether you’d like to paddle in a river or a lake – you have options! Boone outfitters offer all manner of rentals, from individual to family watercrafts, and include options for guided day trips, shuttles to and from your car and more.
The New River Paddle Trail features slow-moving water and lush surroundings.
Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to reach a High Country Lake like Price Lake or Bass Lake.
- Price Lake Boat Rentals
- Bass Lake Park (rentals only, no personal watercraft permitted)
Nearby Wildcat Lake is great for swimming and boating (non-motorized boats only).
Fishing in Boone
Voted best fly fishing guide in Boone, RiverGirl Fishing Co. offers full service fly fishing lessons and guided trips on the South Fork of the New River.
Price Lake, Trout Lake, and Bass Lake are popular fishing spots. Check out Boone area fishing regulations here.
Grandfather Trout Farm is another laid-back fishing option. No license needed, and you only pay for what you catch. They’ll clean your fish for you, too!