Paddling

Paddlers and boaters of all experience levels and interest will find a variety of opportunities for them in the Schuylkill River Heritage Area. Lakes, streams, and of course the river afford kayakers, canoeists, and recreational boaters an abundance of publicly accessible facilities in all parts of the Heritage Area. In this section you'll find information about where you can paddle legally and safely, important safety and access information for river paddlers, water level and quality in the river, how to select boats and equipment, resources you contact for further information, and clubs and organizations you can join.

WHERE TO PADDLE

There are numerous facilities across the Heritage Area that provide access to lakes and the Schuylkill. French Creek, Tuscarora, and Locust Lake State Parks have lakes of varying sizes for flatwater paddling. Canoes, rowboats, and pedalboats can be rented at these facilities. Blue Marsh Recreation Area is a favorite flat water boating facility in the Western Berks region.

For those seeking a little more movement, several of the river's tributaries are navigable seasonally. Please note that the tributaries can be narrow, fast moving and more challenging than the river itself. These sections are recommended for experienced paddlers only. Many of the tributaries lack public access points. Please do no trespass on private property while putting in or taking out. SRHA advises you to access the river and its tributaries only at marked locations.

The Little Schuylkill and the West Branch in Schuylkill County are navigable during the spring. Both feature public access points and are part of the Schuylkill River Water Trail.

Tulpehocken Creek below Blue Marsh Dam is navigable with public access areas.. Take out locations are under development in the City of Reading.

THE SCHUYLKILL RIVER WATER TRAIL

Schuylkill River Water Trail logoPaddling the Schuylkill River can be a fun way to exercise and enjoy the outdoors. The river is lined with farms, trees, and dotted with small towns and villages as it winds its way through Schuylkill and Berks Counties. Further south you'll find yourself paddling through manyof the region's small and mid-sized cities and experiencing the area's industrial past from the water's edge. The River winds its way through Valley Forge National Historical Park on its way to Philadelphia.

Public access points to the Schuylkill are marked as stops on the Schuylkill River Water Trail. These locations are publicly owned and maintained and meet Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission standards. Look for the oval medallion at these launch points. Water Trail maps and River Recreation guides can be purchased from SRHA in the River Store.

The river can be shallow and rocky at spots, so please be sure to check the water levels in the area you wish to paddle before putting in. Also, please note that there are 10 dams on the Schuylkill, and paddlers are required by law to portage around these dams. Portages can be lengthy in unimproved locations.

pdf Water Trail Upper Schuylkill

Water Trail Lower Schuylkill

water trail updates Water Trail Updates

 

STAYING SAFE ON THE WATER

Rivers, streams, and lakes can present unexpected challenges to recreationalists. For a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important that you remember these basic rules and guidelines;

Always wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and make sure it is secured properly.

Be sure you have the proper equipment and know how to use it

Check the weather and water levels before getting on the water.

Never paddle alone, and leave a float plan with a friend or family

Carry a whistle and use it if you are in distress.

cell phones may not work in the remote sections of the upper Schuylkill

The American Canoe Association provides paddlers with a lot of useful information about safety on the water.

Beginner's Guide

Know your limits

Safety Code

 

What Kind of Equipment will you need?

There are a variety of canoes and kayaks available at major outfitters and sports centers. It's just a matter of finding the one that's right for you. Consult with the sales staff at these locations about your options. The American Canoe Association also offers a guide to buying canoes and kayaks.

When on the water, proper accessories and clothing are important . Again, outfitters are the best source for your equipment needs, as it varies according to the type of craft you buy. The ACA also offers advice on what to bring on a paddling trip.

See all Paddling Sites


WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU PADDLE

Updates and access advisories for the Schuylkill River Water Trail
Before you put your boat in the water, it is important to know a few things about what you should expect and prepare for. Consult the United States geological Survey for the latest water level and flow rates. The Philadelphia Water Department provides information on the quality of the river in Philadelphia and its suitability for recreational activities.

Water levels

Water quality

water trail updates Water Trail Updates

Unpowered boats are not required to be registered with the PA Fish and Boat Commission for use on the river or tributaries, however, registration is recommended. Registration is required for use of private crafts at all State Parks and Blue Marsh Recreation Area. All motorized boats are required to be registered with PFBC. Contact PFBC for information on registering your boat.

WHO ELSE LIKES TO PADDLE?

There are several clubs and organizations in the Heritage Area that organize trips, provide lessons, and sponsor special events for paddlers on the River. Click here to find a paddling organization near you.

Each June the Schuylkill River Heritage Area sponsors the Schuylkill River Sojourn, a 7 day float down the entire length of the river. The Sojourn attract hundreds of people from all over the country and is a great opportunity for new paddlers to get some experience, and for experienced paddlers to hone their skills and meet new people. The trip is guided, all meals are provided, and rental equipment is available. Click here for more information about the Schuylkill River Sojourn.

 

LINKS

Water levels in the Schuylkill River (USGS)
Water quality in the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia (PWD)
Safety guidelines (ACA)
Equipment guide (ACA)
Registering your boat (PFBC)