This event is CANCELLED. We'll try to reschedule when conditions improve.
This is an excellent trip for those who have never kayaked and/or those who don't have a kayak to try out the sport. This will be a two to 2.5 hour ride, downstream, easy paddle, very scenic.
About the Paddle: From the launch site, paddlers will travel downstream for about two miles as the creek twists and turns through the meadows of the park. You will pass underneath several wooden pedestrian bridges before exiting the parklands and passing under Browncroft Boulevard. You'll now have about 2.5 more miles to go. From this point on, the land is in a much more natural state. Shortly after Browncroft, paddlers enter the "Canopy of Trees" and float beneath a ceiling of green. Beyond that, boaters enter the upper marsh where sightings of beaver, muskrat, deer and numerous birds are common. About a mile farther, paddlers arrive at the "Narrows" - a spot where the creek squeezes between the hills of Tryon and Lucien Morin Parks. Paddlers then enter the lower marsh and have about 1.5 miles to meander back to BayCreek.
BRING: Wear water shoes, clothes that can get wet (quick dry clothes), bug spray, and a hat; don't carry anything that can't get wet unless in waterproof containers. You might also want to bring a band to secure your glasses or sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera. Don’t forget water and a snack/lunch (optional).
If you’re renting: Kayaks may be rented and shuttled from Bay Creek on Empire Blvd, www.baycreek.com, for $47. Those who want to rent kayaks should meet at Bay Creek by 11:30 to get a boat and get on the shuttle by noon. Reservations are required! Call 585-288-2830. Note: It’s a busy holiday weekend, so don’t delay.
Directions for those who have their own kayak. Meet at 12 pm (or earlier) at the Canoe Launch area at Ellison Park. Take 590N to exit 6 for Blossom Rd. Follow Blossom Road into Ellison Park until you see a right hand turn for the Canoe Launch site (also near the Sycamore Shelter). Park along the roadway near the canoe launch site. See map at this link for exact location https://www.monroecounty.gov/File/EllisonPark.pdf. We will car pool people back to Ellison as this will be a one way trip, and I will be in touch to arrange to leave a car at LaSalle’s Landing Park. Bring own boat, PFD, and paddle in addition to the list above.
This free event is open to members and non-members of Women Outdoors. Non-members are invited to join us on two events to see what you think. The third time's a charm - we'll ask you to join Women Outdoors at that point. You can join now by clicking on Join Us.
