Paddle for the Border
May 3, 2025
Registration Opens January 6th, 2025 at 8am!
In early spring hundreds of paddlers launch their vessels into the Dismal Swamp Canal’s dark, mirrored waters. This historic waterway serves as the backdrop for Paddle for the Border, an annual 7.5-mile paddling excursion to the North Carolina/Virginia border.
This annual event, celebrating 20 years in 2025, highlights the canal’s rich history, which dates to 1763 when George Washington’s land company first surveyed the swamp before commissioning the waterway’s construction. In the 19th century, the canal’s dense wetlands provided refuge for those enslaved traveling the Underground Railroad before continuing their journey north.
The fee is $55 per person. After enjoying a pre-launch "grab-and-go" breakfast at the Dismal Swamp State Park, in South Mills, NC, paddlers embark on the leisurely three-hour journey to cross the state line. They finish the day out with a picnic lunch on grounds of the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail at the Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp at Ballahack Rd. in Chesapeake, VA. Registration fills quickly!
Pre-registration is required for this event. This event is limited to 375 paddlers.
Registration: Event is Currently Full
Waitlist is available
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Phone: 252-771-8333
Paddle for the Border Brochure
Paddle for the Border FAQ
Paddle For the Border Media/Articles
Paddling the Dismal Swamp Canal Is the Complete Opposite of Dismal - Carrie Dow 2023
How to Enjoy Dismal Swamp State Park (10+ Fun Things to Do) ~ NC Tripping
A tour of the Great Dismal Swamp during 'Paddle for the Border' ~ WVEC Channel 13
Paddle for the Border-Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Kayak Rentals/Outfitters
(Click Book Now, Choose Single Day Rental for Special Event or call 252-489-8146 to rent a vessel. Singles are $50 & Tandems are $75)