When the water levels are up and the weather is balmy, its time to haul out your kayaks and canoes for the season. In the warmer months, there are many intrepid explorers in this area who paddle the waters, be it the calm of a lake or the excitement of a ride down the Youghiogheny. However, there are also many not-so-intrepid outdoor enthusiasts who may be interested in kayaking, but not know where to start. While watching kayaks glide across the lake looks easy and fun, it can be daunting when you see the price tag on a boat or aren’t even sure how to get in one! Sometimes, it can be so daunting that you might just decide it’s too hard to bother. 

Fortunately, there is a great alternative available to everyone right at their local state parks. Many parks offer kayak programming, for both the beginner and the seasoned paddler, all spring and summer long. State park programs provide equipment and instruction there is no need to bring anything with you except yourself! These programs are very often free, or there may be a nominal fee. 

Just getting started? For kayak 101 programs, turn no farther than to Moraine State Park. Kelly Klasnick, the kayak instructor at the park, is offering 13 different kayak programs this season. Several of these are programs for the beginner who has never set foot in a kayak before, while others are for those with minimal experience: 

Learn to Kayak: June 27, July 25 and August 22
Learn kayaking basics in comfort. We provide the equipment and the instruction, you just bring yourself. $10/person for 3 hours of instruction. Dress to be wet! 

Explore Off Shore: June 13, August 28 and 29
Looking for a fun way to burn calories outside? Leave your running shoes at home and come paddle Lake Arthur with us during this Saturday morning workout paddle.  

Moraine also offers many other kayaking programs throughout the summer. To register for any of these, call the park office at 724-368-8811.  

For those who would like more of a challenge, Pymatuning is the place to go. Linda Armstrong, park educator and kayaking whiz, offers many paddles for those who would like a bit of a challenge. 

GPS Kayaking: June 16 and August 18
Learn the basics of GPS navigation and find the hidden treasures of Pymatuning Lake. GPS units and kayaks provided. 

 Perseid Meteor Shower Paddle: August 12
Watch the beauty of radiant meteors that appear to be falling from a point in the constellation Perseus while on drifting peacefully on the lake. 

In addition to these special paddles, Linda also offers a series of programs that travel around the local lakes as well as beginner programs on Pymatuning Lake. To register for any of her programs, please call 724-932-3142. 

These are just some examples of the types of kayaking programs offered at your local parks. To find out about these programs and more, check out the DCNR Calendar of Events at www.dcnr.state.pa.us/Calendar.