Hundreds To Paddle Through Montco For Schuylkill Sojourn

NORRISTOWN, PA — A colorful parade of hundreds of canoers and kayakers will pass through Montgomery County over the coming days as part of the annual Schuylkill Sojourn.

The 23rd annual event, organized by the Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area, takes watergoers on a five-day guided trip. It starts in Jim Dietrich Park in Muhlenberg Township on Saturday, and will end at Boathouse Row in Philadelphia next Wednesday, Aug. 4.

“It has been very gratifying to witness our region connecting with the river and the outdoors in increased numbers during this challenging time," Elaine Paul Schaefer, Schuylkill River Greenways executive director said in a statement. "We hope people continue to find solace in the river landscape during this year’s sojourn and throughout the year."

Some 215 individuals are participating. Organizers said they came from all over the country to participate, with 12 different states represented.

Officials hope the event reconnects participants and the community with the river, and inspire conservation through recreation and experience.

Residents can watch the colorful boats pass through Montgomery County. The public viewing schedule is as follows:

• Saturday, July 31: Buttonwood Bridge in Reading between 11 a.m. and noon
• Sunday, Aug. 1: Hanover Street in Pottstown, between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m.
• Monday, Aug. 2: Bridge Street in Royersford, between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Aug. 3: Sullivan's Bridge in Norristown, between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 4: Manayunk Bridge Trail on the outskirts of Philadelphia, between 11 a.m. and noon