Paddle into Spring & Summer

BY DONNA BUSH

In the words of Henry David Thoreau, “Everyone must believe in something. I believe I’ll go canoeing [or kayaking or paddleboarding].”

Here on The Northshore, when Jack Frost finally stops nipping at our noses and our weather takes a welcome, warmer turn towards springtime, it is time to get on the water. Hopping in a kayak or canoe or trying out a standup paddle board (SUP) is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of spring. We probably have more available paddling waterways than most other states and a multitude of methods to experience them.

GUIDED AND SELF-GUIDED

You can choose from a self-guided or guided trip, such as those offered by Canoe and Trail Adventures, easily the oldest locally run outfitter in the area. Self-guided trips depart from The Chimes in Covington, a local restaurant on the beautiful Bogue Falaya River. Offering the broadest selection of paddling transportation, you can choose from a paddleboard, single or tandem (double) kayak, double canoe or a family canoe. Included with your rental are paddles, life jackets (PFD) for all adults and children and a waterproof drybag. Participants are free to bring their own food, drinks and cooler or can purchase items from the fully stocked bar/restaurant.

Nearby in Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, they offer a certified Louisiana Master Naturalist guided kayak swamp tour on fabulous Cane Bayou, including lunch and ice cream. This short, 1½ mile trip to Lake Pontchartrain showers participants with a true Louisiana bayou experience—alligators, herons, kingfishers, maybe a bald eagle, osprey or a great horned owl. Once a month they offer a sunset paddle on the same waterway, allowing partakers to enjoy the nighttime adventure of a Cajun swamp.

Their outdoor skills summer camp teaches kids, 4th grade and up, paddling, hiking, knot tying, fire building, basic first aid, fishing and more.

For more information, visit canoeandtrail.com

DIY

If you’re looking for more of a do-it-yourself trip, check out Bayou Adventure’s Kayak Kiosk rental, available at Cane Bayou in Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. You choose your own time of day to paddle; spur of the moment or planned. Use the app, ShareKayak, to secure your rental, complete a waiver, submit payment using a QR code and exchange photos. In their locker, they provide a kayak (single or tandem), paddle(s) and life jacket(s). For more information, visit bayouadventure.com/self-serve.

EDITOR'S TIPS

Paddle Prep

Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD)

Use the buddy system or an experienced guide

Choose your paddling option and length of time that suits your comfort level

Dress for the weather with comfortable shoes

Store keys and phones in a dry bag

Bring sunscreen, a hat and bug spray

Hydrate with water and pack easy snacks

Don’t feed the wildlife, especially the gators

Leave no trace

Paddle in designated waterways and follow any local regulations

Take plenty of pictures and videos and share them with Visit The Northshore

Mobile Convenience

Newest on the scene is Kayaks to Geaux, which offers more of a concierge-type approach to kayaking. You select one of their seven paddling locations or your own unique location, then reserve your kayaks and time. Owner, Jeremy Torres, or staff will meet you at the designated launch with your kayak (single or tandem), paddle(s) and life jacket(s). They assist you into your boat, with paddling instruction and directions if needed, and meet you back to pick up boats and gear after your delightful kayaking adventure. Note: all their single kayaks are outfitted for fishing, complete with a cushioned seat, rod holders and a spot for an ice chest or bait bucket.

Current locations for Kayaks to Geaux include: Bogue Falaya Wayside Park, Menetre Boat Launch, Cane Bayou, Mandeville Boat Launch, Main Street and Lake Road on Bayou Lacombe, Tchefuncte River or renter’s choice.

Rental options are half day (2.5 hours), full day (5 hours) or overnight (24 hours). Check their website for the latest places to paddle. For more information, visit kayakstogeaux.com

Adventure Paddling

If you prefer an adventurous swamp paddle, guided tours are available by kayak through the enchanting Honey Island Swamp.

Honey Island Kayak Tours offers customizable guided tours with their expert outdoor enthusiasts. The paddle will take you to the heart of the swamp where you’ll learn about the diverse ecosystem including the beautiful cypress trees, some up to 400 years old. They provide water bottles throughout the trip, dry boxes to store belongings and their tours are pet friendly. Book a tour at honeyislandkayaktours.com.

Cajun Encounters (mentioned on page 14) offers more than pontoon excursions. Their team provides an immersive and eco-friendly journey through the protected wetland and wildlife sanctuary of Honey Island Swamp with knowledgeable guides and top-notch kayaks. Visit cajunencounters.com for more.