Free Kayaking at Discovery Village in Shady Side

There’s nothing like a quite evening, paddling the open waters of a river or exploring a shallow creek just before dusk. All sorts of critters are stirring, the fish are jumping and osprey are on the hunt.

If you've thought thought about kayaking this summer but you don’t have the gear, no worries, the West/Rhode Riverkeeper is offering free kayaking on the third Thursday of every month this summer, (June-September) from 5 p.m. until a half an hour before sunset. The kayaks launch from Parish Creek at Discovery Village in Shady Side.

The next opportunity is June 16 (tomorrow).

Everything you need, including paddles, life vests and both single and tandem kayaks, are made available for free—but you should try to arrive early because gear is limited.

WRR program manager Amy Colhoun said the creek is great for less-experienced kayakers but there are plenty of places to explore if you are feeling more adventurous.

“Typically, beginners stay in the Parish Creek area where it’s a little more shallow and narrow,” she said. “And if you’re up to it you can go ahead out to into the channel of the West River.”

Riverkeeper Chris Trumbauer explained that many participants who attend the free kayaking event have never had the chance to explore the river.

“Some of the people that have come to the kayak nights in the past have told us they’ve never had a chance to be out on the water before,” he said. “That’s really a rewarding experience when we send them out.”

He said there are always plenty of stories when these first timers return and he is more than happy to help facilitate those experiences.

“They might see an osprey dive into the water or they might see a school of fish or a turtle on a log and then they come back and they’re so excited about it.”

Trumbauer said he recognized the opportunity to help give people a reason to appreciate the river and therefore may be more inclined to care about it.

“I quickly realized this was one way to build a connection with our waterways because if you don’t have that access to get on the water and appreciate the fact that it is an ecosystem, and there’s life there, it’s harder for us to sell the message of 'these waters need to be taken care of.'”

Trumbauer also explained that although the event is not designed to promote environmental advocacy, by just helping people get out and enjoy the river, the organization is helping foster more appreciation for our waters.

“Just them getting out on the water builds a connection and we think, builds stewardship for the river,” he said.

The West/Rhode Riverkeeper will also be hosting a Rhythm on the River this Saturday, April 19 at Heritage Yacht Harbor in Galesville. The event will feature live music, food and drinks on the West River. Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for kids, 7 and under are free.

Visit website for more details.