Paddle With A Ranger: Paddle 101 at Pickerel Lake Dates: May 29, May 30, May 31, June 5, June 6, June 7, June 10
Arrival time: 6:10-6:15 PM
Program Time: 6:30 PM-8:30 PM
*Please arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your program time to ensure parking and a safety talk. We will leave promptly at 6:30 PM.
Pickerel Lake is a wonderful location to be introduced to the world of paddling for beginners or those wanting more paddling experience. Experts from the National Park Service will provide instruction and equipment for an adventure on the water for a wide range of experience and ability levels. You'll learn more about the National Park in the Twin Cities while you improve your techniques in paddling.
Registration includes a kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device (PFD) rental from Paddle Share.
Attendees must be 18+. A person under 18 years old may attend if they are in a tandem kayak with an adult from the same household.
More Details
Pickerel Lake is located in Lilydale Regional Park, a park along the Mississippi River near downtown Saint Paul. The lake is surrounded by a floodplain forest and scenic bluffs. There is an abundance of fish in the lake and in mid-summer lily pads dot the surface. Bald eagles nest nearby and river otters have been sighted.
Adaptive paddling equipment is available, including hand adaptions for people who can grip a kayak paddle but need added support, or specialized outriggers attached to boats for balance assistance. If you would benefit from the use of adaptive equipment, please contact miss_info@nps.gov when you register. We request at least a 48-hour notice for assistance requests. Events happen rain or shine. Program cancellations due to heavy rain or lightning will be made at least two hours before the scheduled program time. Be prepared for the weather and bring sunscreen, hat, bug spray, rain jacket, snacks, and water. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars. Do not leave valuables in your car.
Due to staffing limitations, we unfortunately cannot accommodate people bringing their own personal boats.
In partnership with:
