Paddleboarding 101 at Ponder Lake

There’s something about getting out on the water that makes an ordinary afternoon feel a little more like a vacation. At Ponder, that feeling will be in your own backyard. With Ponder Lake as one of the community’s signature amenities—and a kayak launch coming to Ponder House too—our residents will have an easy way to grab a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and spend time out on the water.

Pro tip: If you’re new to paddle sports, prioritize stability over speed. A wider recreational canoe or a larger (think 10-foot or so) stand-up paddleboard (aka SUP) is a better place to start than a sleek or shorter option meant for speed and competition. Read here for more beginner advice as you get more comfortable on your SUP, kayak or canoe!

Gear Up

As far as equipment goes, just a few essentials can ensure a comfortable and safe time out on the lake. We recommend starting with the following supplies:

• PFD/life jacket
• Paddle
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Hat/sunglasses
• Dry bag for phone/keys
• Water shoes or footwear that can get wet

As for where to find your floating apparatus of choice, local outdoor stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, REI and Bass Pro Shops are all less than a 30-minute drive from Ponder and offer plenty of options to fit your needs. And if you want to join in on the floating fun without the steep price tag, consider starting with an inflatable kayak or SUP as you get your water legs.

Paddle Spots Near Ponder

Once you get more into the fun of paddling, you might crave some water exploration outside Ponder. Here are a few of our favorite nearby places to enjoy the water.

• Robertson Millpond Preserve: Offers a 1.15-mile paddling trail and a launch for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.
• Neuse River Blueway: Float along up to 17 miles of river throughout Raleigh and Wake County—and pick between six launches to start and end your journey.
• Lake Crabtree: With a paddling trail and free (!) non-motorized boat rentals for the first two hours, this local lake is a picturesque place to enjoy a day out on the water.
• Falls Lake: Enjoy calm, expansive waters across this 12,000-acre reservoir, with the Beaverdam Access Area ranked a top spot for a peaceful paddle.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or someone who’s never stepped foot on a paddleboard, kayak or canoe, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a day on the water. And at Ponder, the lake is right in your backyard, giving you the perfect excuse to give it a try.

Paddling around Ponder Lake isn’t the only perk of life at Ponder. Learn more about all the outdoor-oriented amenities we offer here.

Ponder is a new home community located just 20 miles from downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S.