Hwy. 101 to Beaufort Waterfront (Grayden Paul Park)
Distance: 8.75 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate, due to distance and potential tidal current strength.
This paddling trail can range from a challenging battle against the elements to a leisurely, blissful adventure. The good news is, the experience depends largely on how you plan your trip. Strong tidal currents and winds are frequent factors along this trail. Depending on your goal, you can opt for either a physically demanding route or a more relaxed journey.
For those seeking a workout, paddling this trail against an incoming tide and a South wind will push your endurance. During these conditions, paddlers will find opportunities to refine their technique and test their strength. On the other hand, if you prefer a peaceful experience, plan your trip with an outgoing tide and a North wind for an easier, more laid-back paddle.
Important Considerations for Planning:
Wind & Tidal Currents: These are the main factors affecting the difficulty of this trail.
Boat Traffic: Considerably higher on weekends and holidays.
Open Water Crossings: Prepare for open water stretches, which can be challenging in high winds.
Wildlife Hazards: Jellyfish are common in late spring and early summer.
Launch & Take-out Locations: Different spots offer various levels of accessibility and fees.
Additional Costs: Expect fees for ramp access and parking at the Beaufort Waterfront.
Launch Options:
Option 1: Beaufort Waterway RV Park
This is a paid access point. For a fee (as of 2024, $20), paddlers can enjoy a convenient boat ramp with a dock to prepare for the trip. This fee typically covers the entire group. For frequent visitors, an annual pass is available. The RV park's launch is a simple and practical option, especially for those living nearby or seeking convenience.
Option 2: Bock Marina
Another possibility is Bock Marina, which has a strong reputation in the local community. While the marina is primarily focused on dry-docking and boat repair, it's worth contacting them to explore potential launching opportunities.
Option 3: Core Creek Road (The Hard Way)
For the more adventurous, launching from Core Creek Road offers a primitive option. The old bridge crossing at this dead-end road features a path to the water that is easy to navigate. However, the real challenge is getting your kayak down to the water over ancient oyster rock, which can be hard on kayak hulls. Though this option saves money, the physical demands and risk to your equipment make it a less appealing choice.
Understanding the Tides and Winds:
Tides:
At the Beaufort Waterway RV Park ramp, the current moves northward (to the right) on a rising tide and southward (to the left) on a falling tide. It's important to note that the tides at this location are delayed compared to the Beaufort Waterfront, so timing is crucial. The tidal currents here can be deceptively strong, and locals advise paddlers to plan their trips carefully to avoid trouble. Paddlers should always know the current tide status and the forecast for the next four to six hours. Simple tools like the "Tide Chart for Beaufort, NC" on US Harbors can be helpful for tracking tidal movements.
Winds:
The trail runs primarily north-south, aligning with the prevailing winds. Using weather apps like "Weather Bug" or "AccuWeather" will help provide wind direction and speed information. The most comfortable conditions for this trail involve a falling tide with a north wind. When launching from Beaufort Waterfront and paddling south, the reverse (incoming tide and south wind) is preferable.
Navigating the Bridge:
Upon leaving the boat ramp, paddlers will immediately encounter the tidal current, with slack tide windows being quite short here. Because of the heavy boat traffic in the area, it's advised to stay close to the channel banks, which offer some shelter from wakes and currents. The 101 bridge and the wing dikes beneath it come into view early in the journey. Hugging the ramp-side bank will help avoid larger boat wakes and maintain safer passage. Boat traffic of all sizes is common here, and while not all boats slow down, staying alert will keep paddlers safe from unexpected turbulence.
Channel Features and Wildlife:
The channel offers plenty of fascinating sights along the way, from small drainage creeks to white sandy beaches and a variety of wildlife. Paddlers may encounter bald eagles, ospreys, dolphins, stingrays, and even the occasional manatee. In fact, dolphin encounters can be quite exhilarating, as they sometimes herd baitfish near the kayaks. Wildlife is particularly active during falling tides, providing ample opportunities for photography and memorable experiences. However, seasonal jellyfish blooms (late spring to early summer) should be kept in mind, as these can make paddling less pleasant for a few days.
Jarrett Bay (1.6 miles):
Jarrett Bay is a notable landmark and a good potential bailout point along the trail. While emergency situations would likely be accommodated by the many homeowners with boat docks, Jarrett Bay offers a safe, scenic stop if needed.
Midway Point (4.0-4.5 miles):
Though not exactly halfway, this spot is ideal for a lunch break and a chance to prepare for the upcoming open water crossing. Paddlers have two options for beaching here:
Option 1: Carteret County Game Lands (West Side):
This public land is free from private ownership concerns but comes with challenges like exposure to wind and sun and a beach of sharp shells. Crossing the channel twice will also be required.
Option 2: Private Island (East Side):
This option is technically private property, though many paddlers use it as a resting spot. It offers better protection from the elements, with sandy beaches and less trash. While not officially permitted, using this land requires judgment and respect, with some paddlers even collecting trash as a form of gratitude.
Open Water Crossing (2.5-3 miles):
As paddlers approach the crossing, selecting a heading or compass bearing is essential. The wind and current will likely push the kayak off course, so aiming for a target on the horizon (such as the light-colored box structure near the Beaufort bridge) will help maintain a steady course. Sticking to the shallows initially provides safety from boat traffic before making the crossing toward the shoreline.
Beaufort Bridge and Inlet:
Reaching the Beaufort Bridge, it's best to avoid the center channel, reserved for larger boat traffic. Passing through one of the left-side arches will keep paddlers out of harm's way. Beyond the bridge, the Beaufort Inlet presents opportunities to admire shrimp trawlers, yachts, and waterfront homes that date back to the late 1700s. The historic ambiance makes this final stretch a peaceful and scenic conclusion to the trip.
Grayden Paul Park (Take-out Point):
Located roughly 900-1,000 yards from the inlet, Grayden Paul Park offers a small, sandy kayak landing. This primitive beach will require a portage to the parking area. Visitors should plan for tight parking, especially during peak times. Parking in Beaufort's waterfront district has paid hours from May 15 to October 31 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), with fees of $1.50/hour as of 2024. After a long paddle, having extra clothes, a towel, and deodorant in the vehicle is highly recommended before heading to one of the local restaurants.
Alternative Take-out Point:
Paddlers can also use the state boat ramp at 2370 Lennoxville Road, offering free parking but adding approximately two more miles to the trip. This lot fills up quickly on weekends and holidays, and space for vehicles without trailers is limited.