Public canoeing, kayaking on the parks’ summer schedule
Whether it’s before dawn, during the day or beneath a full moon, your time on the water will be the best part of your day. Join a Geauga Park District naturalist to float out on Lake Kelso, Bass Lake, the Cuyahoga River or LaDue or East Branch reservoirs during the following opportunities.
Polliwog Paddle Family Canoe
Sunday, July 6, 1-3 PM, Eldon Russell Park (register by phone starting June 29)
An easy-paced, short-distance float on the wildlife-rich Upper Cuyahoga River for families. Ages 5+ with adult; up to two kids 5-11 in middle; 12+ to paddle.
Headwaters Sunset Canoe Float
Saturday, July 12, 7:30-9 PM, Headwaters Park, Boathouse (register by phone starting July 2)
Paddle along the shore of the East Branch Reservoir as the sun sets and search for nocturnal wildlife. Basic canoeing skills and life vests required. Canoes available or bring your own. Program rain or shine except if thunderstorm. Wear shoes to get wet or muddy, and bring water and a change of clothes in case the canoe overturns. Ages 7+ w/adult.
Kelso Afternoon Canoe
Sunday, July 27, 1:30-3 PM, Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve (register by phone starting July 20)
Spend the afternoon floating on the cool waters of glacial Lake Kelso. Basic canoeing skills required. Ages 10+.
Nature Break: Women’s Retreat
Saturday, August 9, 9 AM-1 PM, Bass Lake Preserve (registration required)
Take a break and relax in the park. We’re offering, canoeing, yoga and recycled art projects. Bring a matt for yoga. Lunch provided by Zeppe’s of Newbury. Fee: $6.
Polliwog Paddle Family Canoe
Sunday, August 10, 1-3 PM, Eldon Russell Park (register by phone starting August 3)
An easy-paced, short-distance float on the wildlife-rich Upper Cuyahoga River for families. Ages 5+ w/adult.
Cuyahoga Lunch Cruise
Saturday, August 16, 11 AM-2 PM, Eldon Russell Park, Horwath’s Landing (register by phone starting August 8)
There are so many sights to see along the beautiful Upper Cuyahoga River that sometimes a longer canoe float is in order! We’ll paddle at least five miles to enjoy the sights and sounds along this state-designated Scenic River: likely a good variety of birds, along with dragonflies, damselflies and a host of other creatures that make their homes along the waterway. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and drinking water, because we’ll need to stop and replenish our energy on this somewhat-strenuous canoe float. This float is for people with some canoeing experience who have the ability to canoe a good distance in warm summer conditions. Ages 10+ with adult; 12+ to paddle.
Kelso Full Moon Canoe
Sunday, September 7, 7:30-9 PM, Burton Wetlands Nature Preserve (register by phone starting September 1)
As the sun sets, watch the full Harvest Moon rise over the horizon. Basic canoeing skills required. Ages 10+.
Voyageur Canoe
Saturday, September 13, 11 AM-Noon, 12:30-1:30 PM, 2-3 PM, Headwaters Park, Boat Launch (registration required)
Re-live adventures of French Voyageur fur traders who plied the uncharted waters of the Great Lakes in the 1700’s. Paddle a 34′ Voyageur canoe across the East Branch Reservoir as the hardy crew regales you with song. A great opportunity to experience history first-hand in a one-of-a-kind boat! Program rain or shine except in thunderstorms. Fee: $5.
To register by phone, call 440-286-9516; online registration is available in some cases. All programs are designed for those already comfortable with being out on the water; no lessons will be given. Call 440-286-9516 with questions.
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