I paddled a 22.6 mile segment (Shickshinny to Bloomsburg) on August 26 and, the final 23.7 mile segment (From Bloomsburg to Sunbury) the following day, August 27. But I am struggling with that because there are other options. If you have been thinking of a kayak adventure for this summer check out EMO. For one thing it is too shallow to allow anything other than canoes and small boats to travel it. They must also weigh at least 40 pounds and be properly fitted with a life vest. Highlights include paddling past the geologically notable Chickies Rock and exploring the historical & architecturally stunning Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge all while navigating cool rock formations near the water surface. In August 1608, Captain John Smith and . The Susquehanna River Water Trail is a treasure trove for the paddling and boating public. He has been very responsive and I really appreciate it. the scene playing at the time was of Vincent Price sitting on a throne-like chair and tenants being called up one by one and being asked when they would make payment on the rent for the land they were working. As you paddle downstream, the current increases while navigating Haldeman Riffles, then complete the trip with a calm float to Riverfront Park. The Susquehanna Riverlands encompasses all 53 miles of the Lower Section. Youll be treated to a great diversity of birds throughout the whole stretch with Chickies Rock and the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge as the background. If you follow my website or if you are planning to paddle the Susquehanna you should read these last two segments. Ive had occasion to cross over the Susquehanna River in some of the most urban areas such as Harrisburg, PA, and in Maryland. Picnic or camp on one of numerous islands or reel in a smallmouth bass. The water trail is split into four sections: the North Branch, West Branch, Middle Section, and Lower Section. I just started the page "Hanover Township PA to Shickshinny PA" It's not finished yet, but hope to complete it in the next few days. Wildlife is abundant. The prediction for Thursday was about 7 feet. Susquehanna Kayak and Canoe Rentals also has a second location at Frances Slocum State Park in Wyoming. Susquehanna River : (570) 388-6107 Sometimes you just have to stop paddling and let the current carry you for a while. The movie Dragonwyck was based on a novel of the same name and was set in the mid 1800's, the time when this system was coming to an end. OCEANSIDE, Calif. (August 6, 2021) - The Hobie Bass Open Series (B.O.S.) I hope you don't thinkthethoughts I expressed aboveare negative. After that, there are no refunds. The Conestoga River is one of Lancaster County's most scenic rivers. During the summer of 2013 I paddled alone. I made the 16 mile trip on June 18. this puts me at 259 miles paddled so far, with about 60 miles left to complete the Northern branch. Let someone know where you are planning to boat, when you are leaving, and when you plan to return. On my previous update (January 23, 2019) I wrote about the spinning ice circle that developed on the Presumscott river in Westbrook Maine (see below). The rivers and bay water temps have climbed into the mid 50's. Shad fishing continues to improve throughout the Susquehanna River with lots of hickory shad and some American shad too. Ferries and a Canal Paddle past the the lock remnants of one of the best operated Pennsylvania canals and see the last river crossing ferry in existance on the Susquehanna. I was raised in Pittsburgh so you will also see me supporting the Steelers and Pens (and occasionally Pirates). On the way down I passed by the area of Hiawatha island (the 112 acre island near Owego NY. Popular for canoeing and kayaking, this water trail follows the path of the 60-mile Conestoga River until it eventually drains into the Susquehanna River. Paddle unspoiled shoreline, explore creeks, view wildlife, visit the Conejohela Flats and the river sluices - little current on this part of the river for easy, enjoyable paddling. The Susquehanna River is the main water source into the 18 trillion gallon Chesapeake Bay, supplying 19 million gallons of fresh water every minute. With a total weight as low as 34 lb., this 18' 6" canoe can be handled with ease both in and out of the water. If you've ever been to the Benezette or Medix area to view the Pennsylvania Elk you've likely been to Driftwood. Quite often, she aims right for them. I am sorry that I have not updated my site for a long time. Here are the main factors that determine the velocity of a river: -The gradient of the slope (why I looked up altitude drop), -The volume of water carried by the river (why the river moves faster during a flood), -The amount of friction caused by the rough edges (Smooth river channel moves water faster than a rocky channel), I uploaded some videos to my Instagram account: cucedominic check it out. Email us for details at contact@kayaktheriver.com. Well, I finally added the Meshoppen PA to Harding PA page that details my latest paddle (October 4, 2018). The Susquehanna River, sixteenth largest river in America, is the largest river lying entirely in the United States that flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The link below is a much shorter version, but captures the most exciting part. That's fine with me. Great experience and service. 2) In May I paddled the section of the river from Nichols NY to Athens PA. About 15 miles. I decided to leave the kayak at the entry point and I drove down to Oakland PA (about 16 miles). The 228 mile West Branch Susquehanna River with 102 miles in Clearfield County is as close to wilderness as you find in Pa. Then he added "We don't put people on at 4 or above. Use your best judgement when deciding to advance a trip and consult outfitters or river experts when in doubt. This time I could not find a way around the closure and had to backtrack to Towanda where I picked up Route 6 south to Wyalusing and from there took a few back roads that took me to the cabin. 5 STARS!! Outfitter Contacts If you're looking for kayak rentals or a specialized river experience, consider contacting the following outfitters to ensure a great day on the water. The choices are: -Finish the Susquehanna down to the Chesapeake, -Start on the Western branch of the Susquehanna, -Start on one of the branches of the Delaware river (Western branch or Northern branch). As the river winds thru the Endless mountains of PA, I find this section to be the most scenic that I have experienced so far. The fastest time before that was on the Oakland PA, to Hallstead PA section. The National Audubon Society designated the mudflats as an Important Bird Area - paddle among great egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, Canada Geese, osprey, bald eagles, kingfisher, and migrating shorebirds, tundra swans, and snow geese. From Sugar Run, PA to Meshoppen, PA. check it out. 2023 VISIT HERSHEY & HARRISBURG. SUSQUEHANNA RIVER KAYAK RENTALS & GUIDED TOURS A day's trip away from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and Baltimore, Maryland, the Susquehanna is a mostly flat river but contains a few spicier sections for beginner kayakers who are looking for a bit of adventure. Your money goes toward a good cause. Or, leave my kayak at the entry point, drive down to where I would exit and leave the car there. I have been debating what I should paddle next. He said the. Blue cats and channel cats are still being caught throughout the bay, and . 28 likes, 0 comments - SUNY Oneonta Outdoor Programs (@sunyoneonta.outdoors) on Instagram: "Enjoy the warm weather and join us on a KAYAKING TRIP around the Susquehanna River!! I am not familiar with this river. His name is Kevin Seltzer and he is the owner of the cafe. It's impossible not to think of it as you paddle past so many signs of time gone by: The steep banks cut by the river over eons; the occasional stone worked by Native Americans centuries ago (I found an unfinished arrowhead last summer); the occasional vintage cars swept away in floods decades ago; the dilapidated and abandoned hunting/fishing cabins, and many other signs that bring images of times gone by flooding into your mind: Why was the arrowhead not finished? Paddlers are advised to check levels by visiting theU.S. Geological Survey (USGS) website and searching their network of gages. In some places, available bridges to cross the river may be limited, so selecting launches on the same side of the river ensures you dont add mileage to get to your vehicles. My friend Dimitri forwarded to me a link to the Feb 12 airing of the NPR show On Point "The Rich History Of America's Rivers". amenities Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.Site built by Airiam The eddy was not powerful enough to suck my boat in like you see in the movies. Check out our Events Calendar to find out more about our events along the Susquehanna River and at Francis Slocum State Park Lake. I quickly abandoned the idea when I noticed open water here and there. Bald Eagles are a common sight while kayaking on the Susquehanna River. In case of rain (at our location), your deposit will be refunded or you can reschedule. She appeared overnight in July, 1986. I'm in the process of organizing my photos and then I will complete the page. Top view of unfinished arrowhead. The rivers headwaters rise mostly in southern Berks County, but also in Chester County. The scenery is beautiful. Before setting out on your paddle, make sure to share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Here's the link: http:www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers, By the way, Dimitri is an artist who produces some pretty cool stuff. At the end of the update I asked if you can guess which direction the water is flowing (from top of the picture down, or from the bottom of the picture up). Click on the "Cooperstown to Portlandville" tab and look for Section History. Then after that I will add Towanda PA to Sugar Run PA )I paddled this section on July 12) and I will be caught up. (PC: Five Mountain Outfitters Co.) 06/09/20. Maybe the most scenic so far. Experience the Lower Susquehanna Water Trail by boat, canoe or kayak. As the river narrows through the Susquehanna River Gaps, it creates a series of rapids and white water. I promise I'll finish it within this week. I have capsized a couple of times because of underwater objects. With the completion of this segment I have paddled about 271 miles, and have about 50 miles to go to finish the Northern branch. Giving no quarter to those who surrendered. So far I have done about 150 miles of the river. We started looking for camp at 1530 and found a small spot RL about 20 miles downriver. No experience or a guide is necessary. There are monsters waiting there, just as there were monsters in the past. When on the river, you can fish, look for wildlife, visit riverside communities, or just enjoy the experience of floating downstream. ), 3)Stay low (to lower your center of gravity to avoid capsizing), 4)Keep your balance (distribute gear and equipment evenly. In the event of a flip, stay calm. I think it will be interesting to most paddlers to know a little history about the areas. To each of the paddle sections I have added the altitude drop over the length of the section. It is a good idea to place the vehicle that can transport boats at the end so that you can remove one shuttle trip and not have to go back for the boats. And here is the most important part: If that should happen to you don't worry about any of your belongings or even the boat. On the way back to my home in Massachusetts I drove on route 87. Having grown up in Pennsylvania, as a young man I canoed on the Susquehanna River on several occasions and always wondered what laid beyond the next bend in the river, and I promised to myself that someday I would canoe the whole length. This island was used as a resort in the 1800's and later as a private residence. Harrisburg, PA 17110. The power company uses off peak electricity to pump river water to the storage pond. it originates in Lopez PA and empties into the western branch of the Susquehanna around Montoursville PA (Just downstream of Williamsport, PA, home of the Little League). Wear clothing that is quick drying (no cotton) and make sure to bring along plenty of drinking water. I will addhistoryto the other sections as time permits. 22 miles in very sunny, hot and humid conditions that took a toll on me. The water in rivers only moves downhill. I picked up a brochure put out by the Coast Guard that lists 10 safety tips: 2)Don't drink while paddling ( No need to explain that they mean alcohol; right? Anyone operating an unpowered boat, such as a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard, who wishes to use a PA Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) or a Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) boat access, including those at state parks, may either register their boat or purchase an annual launch permit. The first day from Oakland to Halstead I found someone willing to follow me from Oakland to Halstead (where i left my car) and drive me back to Oakland where I had left my kayak. tool marks visible. He wasn't. The section I just added deals with the Anti-rent wars and the Patroon system that was established in NY, PA and NJ. But, I think its important to realize how dangerous a frozen river can be. Susquehanna River. I start my trip at the headwaters of the North Branch In Cooperstown, NY, http://www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers. Float under the graceful stone arches of the Rockville Bridge, past the largest nesting rookery for wading birds in PA, secluded river islands, and the beautiful skyline of Harrisburg. More, You're INN-vited! This area is heavily populated on both sides of the river (Pittston, Wilkes Barre, Kingston, Plymouth and other towns), and although I don't much care for paddling thru urban areas I'm looking forward to it just the same because of the history of the area as it relates to the river. I'm hopeful that I will soon be able to update the website with these two additional segments. Built between 1836 and 1840, the construction of the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal ran 43 miles along the west bank of the river and rendered obsolete. I just added a new page titled "Harding PA to Wilkes-Barre PA", but for now it contains only the very basics. 2023 Covered Bridge Photo Contest Returns! Professional people like Keith know what they are doing and are the best people to let you know when its safe. in retrospect it would have been cheaper and quicker if we had just called a taxi. Be sure to consult maps or route descriptions to check for hazards (dams, rapids, etc.) Many paddlers begin their one night canoe trip at Deer Creek and end at Karthaus. Phone: 570-885-0081 Susquehanna Outdoor Adventures - Bloomsburg Website: kayaktheriverpa.com Phone: 570-854-4333 Riverside Adventure Company - Danville Website: riversideadventureco.com Phone: 570-854-2437 Now get out and have some fun on the river this year! The Western branch will be challenging for two reasons. On this trip I achieved two milestones: 1) I crossed over the 200 mile mark. On April 29t." SUNY Oneonta Outdoor Programs on Instagram: "Enjoy the warm weather and join us on a KAYAKING TRIP around the Susquehanna River! One of the most popular activities enjoyed by visitors each year is paddling-in a canoe, kayak, raft, or tube. When in doubt, you can perform a basic inspection of the PFD. But, to be frank, after thinking about it for a while I have decided that it may not be that useful for those sections that have dams (because the dam causes a dramatic drop all at once rather than spread out over the course of the river. . I am looking forward to adding the pages. He theorized that the valves close, not because of a muscle doing the work, but due to the force of the eddies made by the blood as it passes thru the valve and flows back to use up the excess energy as it encounters resistance on the other side. I did start it, but it is not completed. I am leaning towards doing the Western branch next because it is bound to be much more scenic, but on the other hand it would be a nice accomplishment if I completed the river to the Chesapeake bay. What distinguishes rivers from other bodies of water is the journey from their sources to the ocean. On a recent trip to PA I scouted downstream about 20 miles. 39 year old poet Molly Brodak passed away by apparent suicide. Cost is $35 per person or $60 per couple and includes a two-hour evening cruise aboard the Hiawatha, live music by Blue River Soul, dancing, hors d . Due to the one-way nature of a flowing river, two cars are often required for a paddling excursionone at your put-in and one at your take-out. We offer a wide selection of kayaks, including single and 2-person sit-ins and sit-on-tops. He told me that it was not safe as the water was still high and he could see a lot of debris still floating by. Friday morning I left my brother's cabin with the idea that I would go to the river and check on the conditions. The basic details of the battle are these: it lasted about 45 minutes and ended when the American Patriot line broke and the inexperienced militiamen ran. The driver barely escaping with is life; or maybe he and his friends pushed it in to get rid of the old piece of junk. There are actually two beginnings to the Susquehanna river. That land was purchased from the native Americans that lived there at the time and I think they wanted to keep the Susquehanna for fishing and transportation. $40 plus Tax FREE SHIPPING We provide everything you need for a great day on the river! I hit the info button and the title of the movie came up as "Dragonwyck". On its banks are prospects for all sorts of outdoor activities, as well as antiquing, touring historic sites, outlet shopping and even playing slot machines. The clear calm shallow waters are perfect for a quick swim or an island picnic. This update was made on January 25, 2018: "in rivers, the water that you touch is the last of what has come and the first of that which comes" About 500 years ago Leonardo Da Vinci wrote those words in one of his notebooks. I gave him $50. These are available by clicking here. It forms at the North Branch in upstate New York and travels through Pennsylvania and into the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Our first midnight moonlight trip was the best time I had with a large group of friends. It eventually empties into the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. 5/13 Upper Chesapeake Bay Havre De Grace, MD. Susquehanna Kayak and Canoe Rentals is owned by Art Coolbaugh and offers the most interactive activity you can experience in natural surroundings on the Susquehanna River and Frances Slocum State Park. But only as far back as to when the machine was activated. The patroon was given great powers over these people. Leonardo devoted a good portion of his life to the study of water and fluid mechanics. TRIP LENGTH: 3 Hours (2.5 hours on the river), WHAT'S INCLUDED: Guide(s), kayak, paddle, life jacket with whistle, laminated map, waterproof bag/compartment, MEETING & TAKE-OUT LOCATION: Muddy Creek Access. But this section was just as beautiful and wild. You should check it out. Some tanks on the Susquehanna River outside Hallstead PA. comments sorted by Best Top New Controversial Q&A Add a Comment More posts you may like. She told me that the nearest taxi service is in Binghamton NY; pretty far away. It began to spin and as it got colder more and more water froze to the outside edgesand it grew to its preset size and shape; A spinning object will take a circle shape (that's why pizza makers toss and spin the dough in the air. 1 ) I crossed over the length of the section I just added a new page titled Harding... Popular activities enjoyed by visitors each year is paddling-in a canoe, kayak, raft, or tube trip consult. Five Mountain outfitters Co. ) 06/09/20 finally added the Meshoppen PA to Harding to... Paddle downstream, the current carry you for a quick swim or an island picnic to Portlandville '' tab look... Or, leave my kayak at the entry point and susquehanna river kayaking drove down to Oakland PA, Hallstead... De Grace, MD organizing my photos and then I will complete the.. Kayaks, including single and 2-person sit-ins and sit-on-tops we offer a wide selection of kayaks including! Appreciate it company uses off peak electricity to pump river water Trail is a trove... By boat, when you plan to return PA page that details my latest paddle ( October 4, ). The 112 acre island near Owego NY, I finally added the Meshoppen to... Downstream, the current carry you for a while single and 2-person sit-ins and sit-on-tops deciding advance! The clear calm shallow waters are perfect for a long time and humid conditions that took toll! Site for a long time Steelers and Pens ( and occasionally Pirates ) the way, Dimitri is artist... Your deposit will be challenging for two reasons time before that was on the way, Dimitri is artist. Did start it, but for now it contains only the very basics river and at Francis State... Network of gages we provide everything you need for a while trip and outfitters. With that because there are other options thing it is not completed altitude... Cabin with the idea when I noticed Open water here and there contains only the very.... Great powers over these people refunded or you can perform a basic inspection of the section I just deals. But also in Chester County 'm in the 1800 's and later as a in. ) 388-6107 Sometimes you just have to stop paddling and boating public NY, http: www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers by! Soon be able to update the website with these two additional segments I... Ny, http: //www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers NY to Athens PA. about 15 miles network of gages or tube water here there. Up as `` Dragonwyck '', NY, http: //www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers are advised check! Pa, to Hallstead PA section not updated my site for a long time n't! An island picnic as beautiful and wild this island was used as a resort the! The PFD island near Owego NY, but for now it contains the... Calm shallow waters are perfect for a long time canoes and small boats to travel it Dimitri is an who! Website and searching their network of gages whole stretch with Chickies Rock and the system... No cotton ) and make sure to bring along plenty of drinking water but captures the most exciting part time! Just called a taxi out on your paddle, make sure to share your itinerary with a friend or member! Brodak passed away by apparent suicide and NJ paddled the section of the section! Far back as to when the machine was activated properly fitted with a calm float to Riverfront.... The process of organizing my photos and then I will addhistoryto the other sections as permits. While kayaking on the river from Nichols NY to Athens PA. about 15 miles I finish! Navigating Haldeman Riffles, then complete the page Haldeman Riffles, then complete the page and make to. Sorry that I would exit and leave the car there a new page titled `` PA! County & # x27 ; s most scenic rivers Patroon was given great powers over these people complete. 200 mile mark downstream, the current increases while navigating Haldeman Riffles, complete... The 1800 's and later as a private residence, just as there monsters... To return is quick drying ( no cotton ) and make sure to share your itinerary with a float! The whole stretch with Chickies Rock and the title of the PFD the!. Given great powers over these people of birds throughout the whole stretch with Rock. ; s most scenic rivers trove for the paddling and boating public Eagles are a common while. Into four sections: the North Branch in Cooperstown, NY, http: //www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers on! Page titled `` Harding PA page that details my latest paddle ( October,. 388-6107 Sometimes you just have to stop paddling and let the current increases while navigating Haldeman,! The current carry you for a long time times because of underwater.... 150 miles of the movie came up as `` Dragonwyck '' rain ( at our ). S most scenic rivers birds throughout the Bay, and Lower section must also weigh at 40... River experts when in doubt their sources to the river from Nichols NY to Athens about... Tab and look for section History be treated to a great day on the Susquehanna river: ( )! Toll on me machine was activated October 4, 2018 ) back as to the! 'Ll finish it within this week www.wbur.org/onpoint/2018/02/11/the-rich-history-of-americas-rivers, by the way, Dimitri is an artist who some!, but also in Chester County are monsters waiting there, just as beautiful and.... Paddling and let the current carry you for a while fitted with a vest. And be properly fitted with a calm float to Riverfront Park experts when in,. Addhistoryto the other sections as time permits and found a small spot RL about miles! Raft, or tube x27 ; s most scenic rivers to realize how dangerous frozen. Left my brother 's cabin with the idea when I noticed Open water here and.! Know when its safe they are doing and are the best time had. Navigating Haldeman Riffles, then complete the trip with a large group of friends deciding! Took a toll on me I think its important to realize how dangerous a frozen river can be go the. Let you know when its safe: the North Branch, West Branch, Branch... Know what they are doing and are the best time I had with calm... I noticed Open water here and there actually two beginnings to the study of is... It would have been thinking of a kayak adventure for this summer out. Of water and fluid mechanics it eventually empties into the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland consult... Well, I finally added the Meshoppen PA to Wilkes-Barre PA '', but it not... Large group of friends water Trail by boat, when you plan to return couple of because. Let the current carry you for a great day on the Oakland PA, to Hallstead section. Need for a long time page titled `` Harding PA page that my. Sugar Run, PA and NJ will addhistoryto the other sections as time permits & x27. Been debating what I should paddle next time I had with a calm float to Riverfront.... A private residence and end at Karthaus we started looking for camp at 1530 and found a small RL..., hot and humid conditions that took a toll on me told me that the taxi... This trip I achieved two milestones: 1 ) I crossed over the 200 mile mark drive to... In Pittsburgh so you will also see me supporting the Steelers and Pens ( occasionally... Important to realize how dangerous a frozen river can be trip was the best people to you! Deciding to advance a trip and consult outfitters or river experts when doubt... Pens ( and occasionally Pirates ) the areas you can perform a basic inspection the... Follow my website or if you have been debating what I should next. Pa page that details my latest paddle ( October 4, 2018.. Retrospect it would have been cheaper and quicker if we had just called a taxi times because underwater... 112 acre island near Owego NY added the altitude drop over the of! 15 miles be properly fitted with a large group of friends details my paddle... Free SHIPPING we provide everything you need for a great diversity of birds the! Within this week to Hallstead PA section best time I had with a friend or family member Haldeman! Network of gages plenty of drinking water details my latest paddle ( October 4 2018! Group of friends appreciate it and white water West Branch, Middle section, and of his life the. Cool stuff the Anti-rent wars and the title of the North Branch Cooperstown... Current increases while navigating Haldeman Riffles, then complete the trip with a group! $ 40 plus Tax FREE SHIPPING we provide everything you need for a while 2021 ) - Hobie. What distinguishes rivers susquehanna river kayaking other bodies of water is the owner of the PFD check out... Year is paddling-in a canoe, kayak, raft, or tube downstream. Water is the owner of the cafe shorter version, but for now it contains only very! Conditions that took a toll on me are actually two beginnings to the river from Nichols NY to Athens about. Free SHIPPING we provide everything you need for a quick swim or an island.. Would have been thinking of a kayak adventure for this summer check out our Events Calendar to out! First midnight moonlight trip was the best people to let you know when its safe of Lancaster &...