Bennett's Creek in North Carolina

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Two wonderful, adventurous people call and invite me to go on a day trip with them to Bennett's Creek. Being that I just enjoy the company of these folks a lot, I accept. As soon as you get in your kayak you can smell the millpond. The shallow water at the start might discourage a few souls, especially since there were a lot of fallen branches and narrow openings. This is the beginning of greatness. This is an almost perfect location for preserved cypresses and wildlife. The trees tower as high as 200 feet and have these awesome roots as if you were flipping through the illustrations of a child's fantasy book. Some of them are perfect hiding spots for the wise old owl. The branches are full of wildlife, my favorite, and the yellow bird.

I reach down to test the temperature of the water and see these serpent-like creatures moving all around in the waters ahead. We got a scare every now and then when we would go to paddle and disturb the coal-colored alligator gars below. There are mile markers throughout the five and a half mile paddle. We took our time and enjoyed all that was going on around us. There are old docks that have since collapsed in the water and been over taken by algae and turtles. But one of the most interesting sights of all was a very slow-swimming colorful bird. We followed the winding waters around every turn to catch up with this odd sight. The head was like a chicken and the body looked more like a duck, probably because it was swimming, but very slowly. I think it was a turkey. And yes I found out since then that turkeys do swim. The water lilies and Lilly pads were in full bloom. Every turn there were brilliant colors of orange, white and pink. The atmosphere was soothing and relaxing. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a slow, quiet and calm trip. Since my 2 friends are experienced and very knowledgeable of their surroundings I had a fabulous guided tour that I thank them for.

Directions:

17 N to Sunbury. Follow the signs to Merchant Millpond. Take the second entrance to the Millpond and follow the road to the canoe rentals. It is directly across the street. There is a dock to enter the water.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location