Those who’d like to try a recreational trip down the Conemaugh River but don’t want to wait for the annual Stony-Kiski-Conemaugh Rivers Sojourn next month may want to sign up for the May 25 Packsaddle Gap Paddle and Picnic.
The fifth annual kayaking paddle is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. in the Indiana County village of Robinson, just across the river from Bolivar, with participants arriving 10 miles downstream in Blairsville by 2:30 p.m.
The event is offered by the Indiana County Chamber of Commerce and the Blairsville Community Development Authority, which will host an after-paddle picnic through 4:30 p.m. at its office, 130 W. Market St., Blairsville. Those who aren’t interested in kayaking can come just to the picnic, which will feature food and musical entertainment.
Participation is limited to the first 50 people who sign up, with registration due by Tuesday. Contact the chamber at 724-465-2511.
There is a $5 registration fee, which includes shuttle service for paddle participants.
Paddlers may provide their own craft or rent a kayak when registering, for a fee of $35 per person. They will receive additional details and instructions after registering.
Paddlers must wear personal flotation devices and may not fish during the event.
Paddling instructions and guides will be provided by the Conemaugh Valley Conservancy, which sponsors the June 6-9 sojourn.
