Community Corner

Full Moon SUP, Kayak Trip: MCCD Summer Programs

The McHenry County Conservation District will offer a variety of paddling adventures this summer.

From MCCDistrict: Family Canoe Trip

Saturday, June 23 OR Saturday, July 7 from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Rd., Richmond. Spend a day in the wilds of McHenry County as we paddle seven miles of Nippersink Creek completely within the undeveloped areas of Glacial Park. Meet at Keystone Landing to learn basic paddling techniques, canoe safety, and river canoeing. The trip includes a stop for a primitive picnic so bring a sack lunch and plenty of water to drink. Wear shoes that can get wet and fully secure to your feet. Don’t forget sunscreen! NOTE: Children ages 5 and 6 may attend but must sit in the middle of the canoe. Know B4 U Go: Be aware there are no restroom facilities along the creek. Register for one date only. Fee: County resident $15.00/NR $20.00. Adults and Families ages 5 and up. Registration required.

Lunch and Learn Kayak Trip

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Sunday, July 22 from 11:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Rd., Richmond. Join us for a catered picnic lunch and learn about the diversity of wildlife that depend upon the Nippersink Creek for survival. After lunch explore the creek by kayak. The kayak portion of this trip is self-guided. Participants must have the physical ability to paddle for seven miles and the skills to navigate the meandering course. Kayaks are singles only. The trip ends at Pioneer Landing where staff meet you to pick up your kayak and answer questions you may have about what you saw on your journey. Bring water and sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes that strap to your feet. Know B4 U Go: Be aware there are no restroom facilities along the creek. All kayaking equipment provided. Fee: County resident $30.00/NR $38.00. Just for Adults, ages 14 years and older. Registration required.

Full Moon Nippersink Creek Kayak Trip
Friday, July 27 from 7–11 p.m. at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Rd., Richmond. Have you ever considered paddling at night? When the moon is full and conditions are right there can be more than enough light to navigate the appropriate river or creek. Join us for an illuminated night paddle 7 miles down the Nippersink Creek from Keystone Landing to Pioneer Landing. Paddling on moving water during low light conditions requires an experienced kayaker; this program is not for beginners. Please note this program is subject to cancellation due to water level, weather, or lack of moonlight due to overcast conditions. Know B4 U Go: Be aware there are no restroom facilities along the creek. Single Kayak spots are still available: County resident $20.00/NR $25.00. Just for Adults, ages 14 years and older.Registration required.

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Full Moon SUP
Saturday, August 25 from 7–9:30 p.m. at The Hollows Conservation Area,3804 U.S. Hwy 14, Cary. The District has partnered with L.L. Bean’s Outdoor Discovery School to offer you this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature at night and paddle through calm waters under the glow of a summer moon. After a brief lesson in the fundamentals of stand up paddle boarding, we will head out onto the water just after sunset. Your experienced guide will share interesting facts about the area’s history and the surrounding landscape. As the moon rises we’ll watch for the wildlife that emerges after the sun sets. We’ll also stop along the way to share a snack and take in the moon’s beauty. We provide the expertise, gear and glow lights—all you need to bring is a sense of fun. This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and SUP paddlers who want to get on a board and try something new. No prior paddle boarding experience is needed. Fee: County resident $20.00/NR $25.00. Just for Adults, ages 14 years and older. Registration required.

Visit the District’s website at www.MCCDistrict.org to view all program and event offerings or sign up to receive the seasonal magazine Landscapes. Register online, by phone (free programs only) at (815) 479-5779, by mail-in and drop-off at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake, or drop-off only at Lost Valley Visitor Center, Route 31 and Harts Rd. in Ringwood.

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