The start and finish lines are at the Lake Blalock Park's boat ramp and docks. Paddlers may launch at the ramp, at the adjacent dedicated kayak launch, or any shoreline spot accessed through the woods. The three- and six-mile courses head north and are marked by colored streamers on the shoreline. Buoys mark the turnarounds for the courses, and paddlers should turn to the right around the buoys. Each out and back course has been measured by GPS to be either 10k or 5k. The 5K racers will pass under the first bridge only and turn at the first buoy to return to the start/finish line. The 10K racers will pass under two bridges and turn at the second buoy to return to the start/finish line.

There is a restriction on the horsepower of power boats using the lake, so no jet skis, water skiers, or very fast boats will be present. However, fishing boats may be on the lake, so use caution. Lake Blalock is fed by the Pacolet River, and racers should be alert for any floating limbs or other hazards which have washed downstream.