How to float down the Catawba River

How it works: The entire experience lasts anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on your route, so plan accordingly.

• You'll need at least two cars, depending on the size of your group — one that you'll leave at the drop-off point, and another to take you to the start.

Pro tip: Don't forget your car keys. You'll need them at the end of your trip down the river and it won't be easy to get a ride back to the start to pick them up.

• And, make sure you get to your car before sundown or you risk a tow.

Route options

There are four possible route options, according to Visit York County.

Lake Wylie Dam (2541 New Gray Rock Road, Fort Mill) to Riverwalk (Herrons Ferry Road, Rock Hill) is the more popular route.

• It takes approximately four hours to float down the 3.5-mile stretch that'll drop you off near The Pump House.

Riverwalk (Herrons Ferry Road, Rock Hill) to Catawba Nation Boat Launch (1175 Charley Horse Road, Rock Hill).

• This 10.5-mile stretch will take five to eight hours to float, depending on the dam schedule.

Catawba Nation Boat Launch (1175 Charley Horse Road, Rock Hill) to Landsford Canal State Park (2051 Park Dr., Catawba).

• It'll take you about five to eight hours to float this 9.7-mile stretch of river.

Riverwalk (Herrons Ferry Road, Rock Hill) to Rock Hill River Park (1782 Quality Cir, Rock Hill).

• The shortest route, at 2.9 miles, will take about two to three hours to float.

Here's everything you need to bring:

• A tube for each person and an extra tube for your cooler. Plus, extra rope to tie yourselves together.
• A waterproof phone case and a wet bag to keep items dry.
• Water shoes for comfort.
• A waterproof speaker.
• A hat, sunglasses, and a lot of sunscreen.
• Drinks, snacks, ice for the cooler.
• Portable air pumps to inflate the tubes.
• A paddle to avoid fallen trees and guide your group around rocks.
• A life jacket for kids under 12.