Thanks for the reply Chris. I'll be buying the rack Yakima rack shortly...the stock Xterra roof rack just isn't wide enough. I guess I'll deal with any problems (wind noise, height, etc) when they arise.
As for paddling, usually in WV or western PA/MD. I've been down to the James a few times, but for the drive (I'm near DC), I usually head out west.
I'm liking the X so far...lotsa fun.