BUCHANAN KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run
A 2-day, 16.5-mile wilderness canoe-camping run from Buchanan that lays out the route, logistics, and the skills you’ll need to handle rapids, a strong current, and an overnight backcountry camp.
Two Days of Wilderness Canoe Camping: Buchanan to Back Run.
This classic two-day wilderness canoe-camping trip takes paddlers downstream from a shop launch near Buchanan into a remote backcountry setting where a strong current, fun rapids and broad mountain views set the tempo for two days on the river and one night under the stars.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Remote backcountry camping on the river
The itinerary delivers a genuine wilderness overnight: guided logistics for launching and shuttling combine with private campground access so groups spend the night in a true river-side backcountry setting.
A slightly more challenging two-day run
Expect fun rapids and a stronger current than comparable 2-day trips—this run is suited to crews who can paddle, navigate up to Class II, and recover a boat without outfitter assistance.
Mountain vistas and river solitude
Paddling downstream through stretches of scenic current, the trip opens into impressive mountain views and stretches of remote river that emphasize solitude and wilderness character.
What the day feels like
How the two days unfold
Paddling is split into a shorter first day and a longer second day: a relaxed 6.5-mile float on day one to the riverside campground, followed by a 10-mile push on day two to Back Run Campground. The trip combines river time, rapids that require competent paddling, and an overnight stay in a remote campsite.
THE ROUTE
Remote backcountry camping on the river
The itinerary delivers a genuine wilderness overnight: guided logistics for launching and shuttling combine with private campground access so groups spend the night in a true river-side backcountry setting.
THE RIVER
A slightly more challenging two-day run
Expect fun rapids and a stronger current than comparable 2-day trips—this run is suited to crews who can paddle, navigate up to Class II, and recover a boat without outfitter assistance.
THE VIEWS
Mountain vistas and river solitude
Paddling downstream through stretches of scenic current, the trip opens into impressive mountain views and stretches of remote river that emphasize solitude and wilderness character.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider something else.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Twin Rivers issues rental dry bags to pack your gear; pack clothing and personal items into the provided dry bags and place them in the shuttle vehicle or boat as directed at check-in.
After packing in dry bags you'll receive a trip orientation with a map and river safety briefing; gear is loaded into the shuttle or boats following check-in procedures.
Complete liability waivers and payment prior to check-in so you can arrive on time for the designated arrival/check-in time on day one.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip and how far do we paddle?
The trip is 2 days/1 night and covers about 16.5 miles total: Day one is ~6.5 miles and Day two is ~10 miles.
Where and when do we meet?
The meeting/check-in location is Twin River Shop, 640 Lowe Street, Buchanan, VA 24066; customers should arrive promptly at the designated arrival/check-in time for the trip.
Is the trip guided?
This trip is UNGUIDED; customers must be able to paddle and navigate up to Class II rapids and recover their boat without outfitter assistance.
What are the participant requirements and restrictions?
Participants must be able to paddle and camp in the wilderness for two days, be at least 6 years old, have swimming skills, be in a party of at least two people (solo paddlers are not permitted), and the trip is not recommended for anyone over 350 lbs.
When will we be picked up at the takeout?
Pickup at Back Run Campground is offered at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., or 4 p.m.; the operator will shuttle you back to your vehicle after takeout.
What pre-trip paperwork is required?
You should complete liability waivers and payment prior to check-in as part of your trip preparation.