Join us for a day on the water to observe the Sandhill Cranes as they winter near the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge before they continue their migratory journey. 

Date/Time: February 21st, 2026, meet 10 am 

Meet at: Blythe Ferry Boat Ramp on the South side of the Hiawassee River (not the North side boat ramp with the same name). In Google Maps, look up: Cherokee Removal Memorial, 6877 Blythe Ferry Ln, Birchwood, TN 37308. The boat ramp is in the Memorial area. By the way, this launch point is 45 miles west of Reliance, TN, where many Club Hiwassee River paddle trips are organized

NOTE: While Google Maps says that the South side Blythe Ferry Boat Ramp is temporarily closed, we checked and it is open to kayakers and only closed to motor boats.

We will paddle out and back, so no shuttle.

To join, you should be able to paddle 3 miles or more per hour, expect to paddle 6-8 miles, and wear outer clothing that will protect you from an accidental swim or capsize. 

Sandhill Crane facts:

• There are an estimated minimum 89,000 Sandhill Cranes in the eastern population that passes through and winters in Tennessee.  The Sandhill Crane stands over 4 feet tall, with a wingspan stretching more than 6 feet, making it one of the largest birds found in Tennessee.
• Two areas serve as primary migration and wintering areas including the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge where thousands can be seen at one time. 
• Tennessee has wintered an average of over 29,000 cranes over the last five years. 

Point of contact: Gary Kilpatrick via Facebook messenger or Club email.

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