By: Shannon McGowan
North Carolina Adaptive Kayaking Program Will Train Volunteers and Offer Excursions
A new adaptive kayaking program intended to get aspiring paddlers with physical and mental disabilities on the water is coming to the North Carolina High Country this month. Taking place at Price Lake, located at milepost 297 of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock, the program—a collaborative effort between the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation and Waypoint Adventure—will offer adaptive excursions and training opportunities for volunteers wanting to participate.
The free training session for volunteers is scheduled for August 13 and covers basic kayaking skills, rescue maneuvers, and adaptive techniques. Then multiple kayaking sessions will take place on August 16 at a cost of $20 per person (scholarship opportunities are available).
“We are thrilled to partner with the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation to bring the joy of kayaking to people with disabilities in our region,” Adam Combs, co-founder and North Carolina Director of Waypoint Adventure, said in a statement. “This collaboration shows our shared commitment to making the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway accessible to everyone. We look forward to creating an experience to free what’s possible in the lives of people with disabilities and foster the growth of a more connected and inclusive community.”
Sign-ups are open until August 12. To register visit BRPFoundation.org/kayak.
Damascus’s New Art Trail
Known as “Trail Town USA,” for the several acclaimed trails that intersect through it, Damascus just gained a new path to follow. A self-guided tour of public art and landmarks, the Damascus Art Trail highlights works inspired by nature and centered around the vibrant trail community of the small southwest Virginia town. Many works are inspired by the trails and natural landmarks in the area, including the Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Trail, Mount Rogers, and Whitetop Laurel.
The trail features pieces primarily made by local and regional artists and consists of murals, carved stumps, and commemorative bricks. The route is great for walking or biking and the majority of it is accessible to wheelchairs. Visitors can pick up a printed brochure guide at the Damascus Trail Center or view it online at www.VisitDamascus.org/Damascus-Art-Trail.
Cover photo courtesy of Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
