Chester State Park

Helpdesk checking in here. Today’s paddling trip was a little different than my usual outings. My paddling partner, Gusto, has been working hard restoring an Eddyline Equinox — a sleek blue kayak that’s been getting a second life under his careful hands. The main mission of today’s adventure: put the Equinox to the test. We loaded up and headed to Chester State Park, a gem tucked away in the South Carolina Piedmont. The park’s highlight is its 160-acre lake, which winds through gentle coves and pine-covered shores. It’s not one of the bigger lakes around, but its size makes it perfect for a quiet paddle — enough water to stretch your arms and find a rhythm, without the heavy boat traffic you’d get on larger reservoirs. One unique feature here is the historic stone bridge that stretches across the lake, a favorite spot for anglers and a reminder that this park has been welcoming visitors since the 1930s. The weather gave us just what we needed: upper 80s, sunshine with just enough clouds to take the edge off. Perfect testing conditions. We paddled a little over 3 miles, and I quickly noticed how the Equinox handled. Not as fast as my Eddyline Fathom, but steady and responsive — a solid blend of tracking and maneuverability. Most importantly, Gusto’s repairs held strong. No leaks, no hiccups. The boat performed beautifully. As we glided past the tree-lined banks, I couldn’t help but think about how Chester’s lake is a sweet spot for kayakers. You get the peacefulness of small coves, the occasional wildlife sighting, and that bridge to paddle under. Add in the fact that the park also offers hiking trails, fishing, and a bit of history — and it makes for a well-rounded day trip. We wrapped up feeling good. Gusto’s Equinox passed its trial by water, and we both logged some easy summer miles on a lake that’s always worth revisiting. Success all around. 

 Until next paddle, Helpdesk

 

2025 Nantahala Rafting Trip

 

Two Days on the Nantahala: Trail Names, Rapids, and River Lore

Just wrapped up an unforgettable two-day rafting adventure with NOC on the Nantahala River. It was Helpdesk, Gusto, and Pepe` taking on the gorge—three trail names, one wild ride.

Here are a few cool facts that make the Nantahala more than just a river:

• "Land of the Noonday Sun": The name "Nantahala" comes from the Cherokee word Nun-daye-li, meaning "middle sun." Parts of the gorge are so steep and narrow that sunlight only reaches the riverbed at midday.
• Powered by Nature: The river’s flow is controlled by Duke Energy’s Nantahala Dam. Water is released through a 5.5-mile underground penstock, making the river “turn on” when electricity is being generated.
• Trout Heaven: The Nantahala is one of the top trout streams in the Eastern U.S., with wild rainbow and brown trout thriving in its cold, clear waters.
• Whitewater Legacy: Home to the Nantahala Racing Club and host to national competitions like the Glacier Breaker and U.S. Open, the river is a training ground for elite paddlers.
• Historic Roots: The river valley was once part of the Cherokee homeland and played a role in the Trail of Tears. Today, echoes of that history still ripple through the gorge.

From Patton’s Run to Upper Nantahala Falls, the rapids kept us on our toes—and laughing through every splash. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or just soaking in the misty gorge, the Nantahala delivers.

Next time, we might just add a third day. Gusto’s already lobbying for it.

2025 Green River - Changes after Helene

 Gusto went by to check out the Green River to see the changes post Helene.   From what we see in these photos it was significant.  

Following Hurricane Helene, the Green River experienced significant and widespread changes, particularly in the Green River Gorge area. The river's course shifted, with some areas becoming wider and others narrower, and significant sand deposits and debris were left behind. 

The once iconic rapids of the Green River Narrows were drastically altered due to damage to the powerhouse and a wildfire. The Green River Cove area was heavily impacted, with many structures destroyed and the landscape significantly altered. 

Here is the slides that Gusto put together in video format

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Channel Changes:

The river's channel has widened in some places, with new islands forming and the current favoring the outside of bends, according to a YouTube video. In other areas, the river is narrower and more shallow, with significant sand deposits. 

Debris and Damage:

The river is littered with downed trees, washed-away structures, and other debris. The Green River Gorge, in particular, experienced widespread wreckage and destruction. 

Green River Cove:

The Green River Cove area was heavily impacted, with many structures destroyed and the landscape significantly altered. Some areas that were once full of houses and trailers are now stripped clean. 

Impact on Recreation:

The changes to the river have impacted recreational activities, with some areas becoming more challenging for kayaking and other water sports.

This is a long video, but it shows Green Cove Rd. one week after the storm. You only need to watch the first 7 minutes 45 seconds to see the damage along the river… it’s mind blowing.

 Green River Video

2025 Shem Creek and Morris Lighthouse

 

Helpdesk, Gusto and Pepe head for Charleston! 

Day One: Shem Creek Detour

Originally, our plan was to paddle out to Fort Sumter, but Mother Nature had other ideas. The winds decided to flex their muscles, so we changed quickly to the calmer waters of Shem Creek—a decision that led us to an equally delightful route.

Launching into Shem Creek, we headed north. The protected waters offered less wind but not totally a smooth paddle, we were greeted with picturesque views of waterfront homes. Some were quaint, others extravagant, but each had its own story etched into the marshy landscape.

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/activity-april-11-2025-7dd0240?u=i&sh=gf9hkv

We had dinner at Bowen's Island Restaurant https://bowensisland.com/ that evening.  Good food and great sunset. 

Day Two: Morris Lighthouse

Thursday brought calmer winds, opening the door for our planned paddle out to Morris Lighthouse. This 10-mile round trip was one for the books.

We embarked through winding marshes, where tall grasses seemed to whisper secrets of the tides. The paddle stretched our endurance but rewarded us with sights that only the water can offer. About halfway through, the iconic Morris Lighthouse came into view—a beacon of maritime history standing proud against the sky.

We made landfall near the lighthouse and enjoyed a well-deserved lunch on the beach. The combination of salty breeze, warm sand, and the lighthouse’s steadfast presence created an unforgettable setting.

On the way back, the winds were at our backs, making for a faster and smoother paddle. 

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/charleston-kayaking-ee0c161?u=i&sh=gf9hkv