The Pennsylvania Sojourn Program is administered by POWR in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The PA Sojourn Program is nationally unique, distributing grants across the state to local organizations and their sojourn events. These grants support between 12 and 17 paddling events each year, encompassing over 500 river miles and 50+ on-the-water days, offering more than 100 educational programs, and engaging over 4,000 people.

Sojourns are not only a fun outdoor activity, but are also an effective tool for raising awareness about our rivers and the issues affecting them, educating and enhancing community involvement about natural and cultural resources, and promoting and encouraging watershed stewardship. The Sojourn program serves as a bridge to bring our communities to our rivers and streams to educate them, enabling them to become lifelong stewards of these resources. River sojourns offer a different point of view on some of Pennsylvania’s treasured landscapes and historic and cultural assets.

To view a map of sojourns planned statewide this year, click on this link: 2018 Sojourn Map

May 12, 2018

Lackawanna River Corridor Association

Canoe-A-Thon – LRCA RiverFest 2018 A timed run on the Lackawanna River from two Mid Valley launch sites to the finish line at Sweeney’s Beach Recreation Area in Scranton. Canoeists and kayakers from either launch site have the option of competing for the fastest time as part of a competitive athletic event or spending a leisurely time with a fun downstream paddle. Consider competing or taking a casual trip down the Lackawanna River from these two Mid Valley launch sites; David Maslyar Park (Laurel Street Park) in Archbald for a 12-mile run, and the Blakely Borough Recreational Park in Blakely for an 8-mile run. The run from Archbald offers some Class II rapids within the first four miles downstream to the Blakely launch site, while the launch from the Blakely site offers Class I rapids and moderate white water. Canoeists and kayakers from either launch site can experience all the nuances the Lackawanna River has to offer. Participants may use their own canoes and kayaks or may reserve a rental canoe or kayak provided by special arrangement through the LRCA. Register Here

May 17-20. 2018

Armstrong Center for Community Learning

The Alle-Kiski-Connie River Sojourn is Western PA’s longest running Sojourn, having begun in 1997. Paddle river corridors rich in scenery and history through the beautiful Allegheny, Kiskiminetas and Conemaugh Valleys. This year features Mahoning and Crooked Creeks, along with the Conemaugh and Kiskiminetas Rivers. Register Here

May 18-20, 2018 – RESCHEDULED TO June 1-3, 2018

Endless Mountains Heritage Region

Endless Mountains Youth Heritage River Sojourn 2018. The Heritage Region and Endless Mountain Outfitters will host this amazing trip. The trip will include students, teachers, and other environmental and historic agencies from around the region. This trip is available for students and adults from around the area. Participants should have an interest in the outdoors, camping, kayaking, history, and so much more. Participants should have some experience camping and have gear to do so. At the end of this three-day two-night excursion students will collaborate with each other to create a presentation about their experiences and what they have learned. Register Here

May 19, 2018

Loyalhanna Watershed Association

The 5th Annual Loyalhanna Sojourn is a one-day event planned to generate excitement and coordinate the efforts of several area organizations to promote the positive changes occurring on the Loyalhanna Creek and its surrounding communities. Participants will paddle a nine-mile section of the Loyalhanna beginning at the Cardinal Park launch site in Latrobe and continue downstream to the take-out launch at Gray Wing Park in New Alexandria. The day will include shuttle transportation, refreshments, boating safety review, overview of environmental features, and a free concert and community event at the take-out venue. Register Here

May 31 – June 3, 2018

Conemaugh Valley Conservancy

The Stony-Kiski-Conemaugh Rivers Sojourn is planned and coordinated annually by a CVC volunteer committee. River sojourns happen across the Commonwealth and country, offering a single or multi-day outing on waterways, showcasing landscape, cultural, and historic assets of a region, and connecting participants with environmental stewardship activities – all of which geared toward supporting nature-based economic opportunities. The Stony-Kiski-Conemaugh Sojourn is appropriate for both new and experienced paddlers and is a great way to learn about the rivers, history, culture and recreation resources in the Kiski-Conemaugh corridor along the borders of Somerset, Cambria, Westmoreland, Indiana, and Armstrong County. Register Here

June 2, 2018

Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy

The Perkiomen Creek Sojourn highlights the natural beauty of the creek with the intention of developing within each participant a personal bond with the creek. The Conservancy understands that only through this personal bond will people come to protect that which they love and value. The Perkiomen Creek Sojourn will also provide environmental education to the participants. This year the Conservancy will highlight their efforts to get the Perkiomen Creek named a PA State Water Trail. As well as discuss the Conservancy’s new water quality monitoring program. There will be naturalists on-hand to discuss the flora and fauna of the creek. Register Here

June 2-8, 2018

Schuylkill River Greenway Association

The Schuylkill River Sojourn is an annual 112-mile guided canoe/kayak trip on the Schuylkill River that is held the first full week of June. It begins in rural Schuylkill Haven and ends seven days later in Philadelphia’s Boathouse Row. Participants paddle 14-18 miles per day and can register for the entire trip or as little as one day. Price of registration includes three meals a day, daily shuttle back to cars, gear transport, a place to camp and programming at lunch and evening stops. This year the Schuylkill River Sojourn will celebrate its 20th anniversary, and all programming will focus on a 20-year perspective of the river and the region. Register Here

June 9-10, 2018

Allegheny Aquatic Alliance

The 2nd Annual Connie Q Canoe Trip Celebration will allow people of all ages and skills to enjoy and engage in a sojourn on a captivating scenic creek. Allegheny Aquatic Alliance will guide you through this two-day, 16-mile kayak/canoe paddle across beautiful Butler County on Connoquenessing Creek. This celebration will encourage participants to learn more about this important waterway and how to protect it. The event includes shuttle service, overnight camping, dinner and breakfast, live entertainment, informative speakers, raffles and silent auction, campfire snacks, and fun for all! One day paddlers are welcome also. Take part in this exciting unique paddling opportunity and experience what our local natural resources have to offer. Register Here

June 15-23, 2018

Upper Delaware Preservation Coalition

2018 Delaware River Sojourn Overview: June 15-23 Still Wild After All These Years – Celebrating 50 Years of Wild & Scenic Rivers. The Sojourn, a guided paddling and camping trip on the Delaware River, is full of fun and adventure, offering a wonderful time for all participants where wonderful memories are made! The purpose of the Sojourn is to heighten awareness of and appreciation for the Delaware River and its watershed, which flows for 330 miles through New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The Sojourn combines canoeing/kayaking, camping, educational programs, historical interpretation, and more. It is for novice to experienced paddlers of all ages; participants can sign up for the whole event or for the section(s) or day(s) of their choice. The Sojourn is fully insured and sanctioned by the American Canoe Association. Each day we are accompanied by our safety team, made up of members of the National Canoe Safety Patrol. Sojourners are like an extended family, and many participants join in the fun year after year, whether it’s for a day or two, or the whole event. It is a wonderful way to get outdoors, meet new people or reconnect with old friends, and enjoy nature – a perfect “staycation” where you feel you are away but still close to home. Register Here

June 16, 2018

French Creek Valley Conservancy

Join the French Creek Valley Conservancy in June and “float” in the footsteps of George Washington! French Creek and one of its major tributaries, LeBoeuf Creek, played a pivotal role in American history, when in 1753 the young British soldier Washington journeyed up the rivers to evict the French at Fort LeBoeuf from British soil. Visit three sites on the Fort LeBoeuf History Campus and learn about the French Creek Watershed’s rich Native American and colonial past. After lunch in the celebrated Eagle Hotel, take to the water and enjoy a scenic paddle on LeBoeuf Creek and French Creek, tracing the route traveled by many boatmen. A smaller waterway than French Creek but also historically used for commerce, LeBoeuf will be an intimate paddle, providing an opportunity to be close to wildlife and flora. Register Here 

June 16, 2018

Jacobs Creek Watershed Association

Jacobs Creek Watershed Association would like to invite you to the first annual Jacobs Creek Lazy River Float Festival. Bring your own raft, kayak, canoe or tube and enjoy a day on the creek, start and ending at the BRAND-NEW Canoe Access Ramps in Scottdale Borough. This family friend event will include food for sale, equipment rentals, music, activities and more! Bring the whole family and float down the belly of Jacobs Creek. A shuttle is provided, and registration gets you a “Ride All Day” pass for service between the two ramps. It’s a Lazy River kind of day, won’t you join them? Register Here

June 17, 2018; July 21, 2018; September 22, 2018

Allegheny Aquatic Alliance

The Launchapalooza Series consists of 3 separate events celebrating the grand opening of new public canoe launches on Connoquenessing Creek. Each event will feature a different kayak/canoe paddle through Butler and Beaver Counties using the new launches on this beautiful, serene creek. This series will inform the public of the new launches while encouraging conservation efforts and recreational use of this often-overlooked waterway. Each event is free, open to the public, and suitable for all ages and skill levels. The events include a ribbon cutting ceremony, food, live entertainment, door prizes, and informative speakers. Connoquenessing Creek received 2nd place for the 2018 Pennsylvania River of the Year. Join Allegheny Aquatic Alliance for these exciting paddling experiences on the Hidden Gem in Western Pennsylvania. Register Here

June 23-25, 2018

Wildlands Conservancy

The 22nd annual Lehigh River Sojourn, June 23rd-25th, 2018, is Wildlands Conservancy’s 31-mile guided paddling trip on the Lehigh River. The event begins in the Pocono Mountains and ends in Easton. Sojourners travel through our region’s metro-wilderness – treasuring scenic view, visits from resident wildlife and a shared appreciation for preserving the Lehigh River. Register Here

June 25-29, 2018

Perkiomen Watershed Conservancy

The Perki-Bay Expedition is designed to be a resource awareness campaign centered on the protection of the Perkiomen Creek. The Conservancy’s youth conservation program will paddle the Perkiomen Creek on a 5-day expedition from its source to the Delaware River. The end goal is for this expedition to generate increased community support for the protection of the creek and its hopeful addition to the Pennsylvania Water Trail Program. The Perkiomen Watershed Conservation Corps and the Perki-Bay Expedition Sojourn is open to all area youth. All youth are welcome to apply to the program. Register Here

July 28-29, 2018

Endless Mountains Heritage Region

Exploring the Susquehanna’s Great Bend. Join EMHR on the last weekend of July to explore the “Great Bend” of the mighty Susquehanna River. Here the river first enters Pennsylvania, traveling through the northern-most section of the scenic “Endless Mountains”. Paddlers new to the water, and seasoned paddlers are invited to join us for this two-day trip with overnight camping in Oakland, PA. During the trip we will explore the scenic beauty of the Great Bend and discuss the historical significance of this section of the river. Leading this trip will be EMHR Great Bend Water Trail Manager, Dana Rockwell. Rockwell, a local who knows the Great Bend intimately, became a 444 Paddler last year; traveling the Susquehanna River from Cooperstown, NY to Havre De Grace, MD. Experienced guides and safety crew will be on hand to ensure that all participants have a safe, memorable trip. Afternoon speakers and presentations, a catered meal from Red Rock BBQ, followed by acoustic music and campfire comradery will highlight Saturday night. Please save the date to join us for a float that is sure to be memorable. Register Here

August 4, 2018

Susquehanna Greenway Partnership

Island Hopping is easily one of the best ways to experience the Middle Susquehanna River Trail. With its abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and network of islands the Middle Susquehanna offers so much for visitors to see and do. So, grab your kayak or your canoe and join the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) and Susquehanna River Trail Association (SRTA) on August 4, 2018 for the family-friendly Island Hopper sojourn! Attendees will launch from the beautiful Isle of Que in Selinsgrove, PA and travel 12 miles down the River Trail stopping to enjoy the beauty and diversity of the islands. See wildlife, experience the beauty of the mountains, and learn about the history of the region all from the comfort of your own kayak. You will even get to have lunch on one of islands. It is sure to be a day to remember! Register Here

August 25, 2018

Mon River Town Program

A Celebration of New Beginnings. New Beginnings Paddle on the beautiful Monongahela River, Saturday August 25, 2018 with a rain date of Sunday, August 26, 2018. Paddle registration opens at 9 am at the California Library. Cost is $15 per paddler. Experienced paddlers are encouraged to bring their own kayak or canoe as only a few kayaks will be available for rent. Families are welcome. A leisurely paddle of seven miles perfect for beginners and families and beginners will be offered an introductory lesson at no additional charge. The paddle begins in California where participants will launch from the community’s newly restored public launch. You can leave your vehicles in California as a shuttle will return you to California, so you won’t miss a celebration of the river at Riverfest. Traveling along the seven miles of the beautiful Mon, participants will learn of efforts to improve the Mon, and how returning flora, fauna and fowl are evidence of success.  Paddlers will complete their trip (approximately 4 hours) in Belle Vernon. Register Here

September 1, 2018

Mon River Town Program

A Park to Park Paddle. A Park to Park Paddle on the beautiful Monongahela River, Saturday September 1 with a rain date of Saturday, September 8, 2018. The Paddle begins at Point Marion where Borough officials and the local outfitter will discuss the community park, public amenities which reflect the Borough’s commitment to outdoor recreation. There is parking at the Point Marion Community Park where check-in will be located and the paddle will begin.  The paddle will end in Greensboro, so if you are using your own kayak or canoe, you must make arrangements for shuttling back to your vehicle. If you are renting a kayak or canoe from Mon River Recreation (Vicky Evans, our host) you may be shuttled back to your vehicle. Experienced paddlers will accompany you on the trip; however, previous paddling experience is strongly recommended.  Beginners may find this trip too long. Morgantown Area Paddlers’ organizer, Mary Wimmer will talk about how the 200 plus paddling group launched and their successes to date. Also along the trip, we will stop near the Albert Gallatin home, Friendship Hill National Historic site and although we will not be able to visit the site (located over 1 mile from the river access) the paddlers will hear a bit about the history of Gallatin and the historic significance of this National Historic Landmark. Register Here

September 30, 2018

Independence Seaport Museum

Walnut2Walnut Challenge. The Walnut2Walnut Challenge offers participants the chance to paddle or row down the Schuylkill River and up the Delaware River for a scenic trip around Philadelphia’s peninsula. The challenge course offers spectacular views of the city, while traveling almost 15 miles along both rivers. The Walnut2Walnut Challenge is suitable for all skill levels and gives participants a chance to explore the natural environment surrounding Philadelphia. Register Here

TBD

First Waves

Inspiring Conservation in Unconventional Ways

First Waves provides youth facing adversity with a 2-day, immersive education in watershed conservation, the art of filmmaking, and standup paddle boarding. In the first workshop, students learn to standup paddleboard, navigate moving water, and even surf on standing river waves at Greenhouse Whitewater Park in the Laurel Highlands. Additionally, participants undergo an education on filmmaking techniques to document their experience. Lastly, basic watershed topics will be introduced including; understanding our watershed, the impact of single-use plastics, and non-point source pollution.

At the following workshop, First Waves students will utilize the skills and knowledge they acquired to clean up a section of river while continuing to document their work. They will learn first-hand about the causes of the pollution they are seeing and how choices they make each day influence their watershed. Furthermore, they will participate in a tree-planting workshop that will target areas of the riverbank to prevent erosion and improve water quality. Their efforts will culminate in the production of a high-definition film that highlights the group’s accomplishments and inspires others to enjoy and conserve Pennsylvania’s waterway resources. www.firstwaves.org

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