The metro Tri-Cities region includes Kingsport and Johnson City, TN and Bristol, TN/VA. An All-American Region in 1999, over 490,000 people call this beautiful region nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains home. The Tri-Cities World Kayak Region encompasses a 50 mile radius that includes 4 states (TN, VA, NC & VA), 18 counties and parts of 14 other surrounding counties. All areas within the 50 mile radius can be reached in less than a two hour drive from any point in the Tri-Cities Metro area. Within a 1 hour drive of any of the Tri-Cities, you can reach southeast classic creeks such as the Elk River Gorge, Watauga Gorge, and the Doe River Gorge. This isn't mentioning the crown jewel of intermediate kayaking, the Nolichucky Gorge. We have great beginner runs in the Lower Noli, Lower Watauga, and South Fork of the Holston. TVA reservoirs dot the region giving flat-water boaters the option of exploring lakes with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Regardless of the type of boater you are, you will find something to satisfy your insatiable appetite for the liquid lifestyle in the Tri-Cities region.

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(Class I-II)

(Class III-IV)

(Class IV-V)

Whitewater Lifestyle in the Tri-Cities Region
Asheville, Knoxville, Chattanooga? Forget them! If you want to be where the action is, the Tri-Cities region is it. We boast everything from the class V hairboating to scenic beginner runs. The Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts (APEs) provides the base for an active boating community that provides a beginners progression course and opportunities for seasoned boaters to advance their skills.