Canoe or Kayak at Carvins Cove

Roanoke, Virginia

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Added by Kenton Steryous

Carvins Cove is a hidden gem just minutes off I-81 and less than 8 miles outside of downtown Roanoke, VA. The 800 acre lake only allows small engine boats, making it much more suitable for recreational kayaks and canoes than nearby Smith Mountain Lake.

Part of the attraction to the Cove is that you can literally leave work at 5pm and be in the water paddling in plenty of time to catch the sunset. Catching a sunrise is slightly more difficult just because the boat landing doesn't open until 6:30am. However, it's still possible to paddle out and get in position just in time as evidenced by both the sunrise and sunset photos above. But the views to the West are slightly better in my opinion making the sunset the better option.

The pin on the map will take you to the boat landing area. Please note, an access pass is required, and must be purchased inside the boat landing office. At the time I wrote this, it cost $5 for the day for a canoe or kayak.

Bring a fishing rod or fly rod along as both large mouth and small mouth bass can be had at the Cove.

Overall, a truly wonderful spot that is super convenient to downtown Roanoke, and ideal for families and first timers alike.

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Stand Up Paddle

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Reviews

Stephen Catalano

Canoe or Kayak at Carvins Cove

08/14/20

This is definitely a great alternative to SML for canoeing/kayaking. Its peaceful, not too large, and the rentals down there are VERY affordable. If you're a local.. I'm jealous!

5.0

Explorer

Jess Fischer

Explorer

Canoe or Kayak at Carvins Cove

09/12/16

Finally bit the bullet and drove three hours down to Carvins Cove and it was SO worth it. The kayak rentals are stinkin' cheap ($7 for an hour/$11 for two) and if you want to drop your own kayaks in it's just a $2 parking fee! We opted to hike up above the lake before going down to kayak and the whole day was just perfect. I highly recommend this adventure!

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Canoe or Kayak at Carvins Cove

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Hay Rock

Mountain Bike at Carvins Cove

Snowshoe the Blue Ridge Parkway

Tinker Cliffs via Andy Lane Trail

McAfee Knob

Virginia Triple Crown

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