Update 2: Weather forecasts this Saturday show Asheville to be in high 50s. Since there is a warming trend then it may even hit 60s. Should be great weather and little chance of rain. Hope you can attend a great and scenic paddle. Call me 730-1856 if you are coming but haven't signed up.

Update: Water level looks fine. Sunny but extended forecast has it in 40s. It may rise by then but wear warm clothing in layers so you can strip as you warm up. Should be fine as long as wind is calm.

Just south of downtown Asheville. Paddle is 7 miles ; 3 hours, moving flat water to Class I. Good for all boat types. Good for beginners. Must be at put-in at 11am. Allow 3+ hours drive from Columbia to put-in; put-in is within 30 minutes of downtown Asheville.

Put-in at Bent Creek Park (I-26 toward Asheville; just after Fletcher exit and Rd 280 exit, take Skyland exit onto Road 146, take left west on Rd 146 toward Avery Creek until road ends then turn right onto Road 191 go north, pass under Blue Ridge overpass bridge; look for park sign "Bent Creek" along river on left).

Take-out at Hominy Creek, we will shuttle there. (If lost, follow Rd 191 north past I-40 and I-26, before hill, turn left on Shelburne Rd go one block then turn left again on Hominy Creek Rd, go to end parking lot).

Last trip in 2006 had 17 boats so we expect good turn-out. Meet us at put-in at or before 11 am. Call me if more directions are needed. If lost call my cell 803 730-1856. Please sign up at next meeting or e-mail me so I can look for you.

Accommodations: No scheduled camping this trip but members can either drive from Columbia to Asheville (about 3 hour drive) and put-in or find local hotels or campgrounds. There are hotels at Skyland exit and at airport exit - Rd 280.

Other: Bring cameras for great photos of Biltmore but remember dry bags to protect cameras. Bring rain gear just in case. As always bring water, sun protection, and snacks. Don't know weather (hopefully in 60s or 70s) so bring extra clothing if cold and windy.

Dennis