Nature   

On this kayak/canoe tour of Cross Creek and portions of Orange and Lochloosa Lakes, we'll explore the wild realm made famous by Pulitzer prize winning author, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. The charming creek, beautiful lake vistas and abundant wildlife remain little changed since the early - mid 1900's, when Rawlings lived here and wrote such Florida classics as The Yearling and Cross Creek. Good for beginners, basic lessons included. Please meet at the launch site at 10 AM. The trip is 2 - 2.5 hours. The difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream and then returning against a light current.

Note: After registering for the class, all participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss equipment needs and confirm an email address for launch site directions.

On this 3.5 mile kayak/canoe exploration of the upper Ichetucknee, we will enjoy some of North Florida's most stunningly beautiful waterways while learning about its interesting geological formations, including beautiful limestone outcroppings and seven named springs.

Paddlers will also hear some of the rich history that has made this one of Florida's most famous rivers. For 14,000 yrs, these waters have quenched the thirst of Indians, Spanish missionaries and DeSoto's conquistadors!

Meeting time (at launch site): 10 AM. There is a $5 Park Fee. Trip duration: 2 hours. Difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream with the current. Skill level: Good for beginners.

This will be a slow-poking exploration, geared toward inquisitive paddlers who are more interested in learning wild lore than covering distance. Unlike our other paddle tour/classes, this one will only cover a couple of miles in total, allowing time to drift, observe and learn about the river's plants, animals, archaeology, history and other wild lore.

If you want to see more of the river and learn a bit less of its wild lore, I recommend one of the other great courses offered in this catalog. Difficulty: Easy paddle, going downstream and then returning against a light current. Skill level: Good for beginners.

There is a $6 Park Fee the day of class. The trip lasts approx. 2.5 hours.

Meeting time (at launch site): 9 a.m. Kayaks are provided. After registering for the class, participants should call (386) 497-4214 during the week prior to the trip to discuss any special needs or requests and confirm an email address for launch site directions. Lunch not included in price.