The Saluda River Rally, an annual kayak event in Anderson County, is scheduled June 3 this year, and offers a number of new opportunities for anyone looking to enjoy the river.
“This will prove to be an asset to all of our riverside towns and communities in Anderson County," said Anderson County Councilwoman Cindy Wilson. "Witnessing the development of the Upstate SC 48-mile Blueway expand downstream is a dream come true.”
Any citizen, including those with disabilities, will have the opportunity to enjoy self-guided kayak tours of the Saluda River, which will launch from M. J. “Dolly” Cooper Park in Powdersville, and end at Piedmont Dam or at the Timmerman Jr. Kayak Launch Facility in Pelzer. The 9/15-mile paddles include shuttle service from the landing sites back to Dolly Cooper Park. The event will also offer camping at Dolly Cooper Park June 2-3. Registration for the event is $25, which includes a day of kayaking, BBQ, camping, entertainment, shuttles and a tshirt, is required.
Those who participate are asked to bring their own kayaks and floatation devices.
“I am excited to see the growth in this event. This 15-mile paddle trip is going to be huge," said Anderson County Councilman Ken Waters. "I am proud each year to participate in this event and see familiar faces.”
The event will offer exclusive access to the river and access points, for not only beginner and experienced kayakers, but disabled kayakers as well. Since its inception in 2008, the rally’s primary purpose continues to promote kayaking, Saluda River recreation and Anderson County’s 48-mile ADA accessible corridor along the river. The event also serves as a Special Olympics Area 14 fundraiser to send Special Olympics athletes to the National Games.
Among the many public and private partners for the event are: Anderson County Council, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Anderson County’s Legislative Delegation, Duke Energy, Anderson County Special Populations Recreation, Grady’s Great Outdoors, Sunrift Adventures, SC Kayak Fishing Club, Senior Solutions, Upstate Forever, Saluda River Grill, Save Our Saluda, Touch the Future, Woods and Water Outdoors, Blue Lion Digital, The Angler Magazine, Piedmont Fire Department and Powdersville Fire Departments, as well as many local residents whom return each year to volunteer their time.
The registration fee for this year's event will allow for an enhanced experience and the opportunity for longer, exclusive paddles down the river, and will help offset some fo the costs to the county.