DCNR team paddle, Safe Harbor Petroglyph Paddle

There is a place where the land meets the water and sky. In this place there is the last voice of the indigenous peoples of 1000 years gone. We are pleased to offer a unique opportunity to visit this place with a curated guided kayak trip with Paul Nevin and the Conestoga River Club.

What you can expect:

Please arrive between 7:45 and 8am During this time you will be directed to where to drop your boats and gear, and park. Those who have rented a kayak will park and be matched with their gear. Once complete, guests will register and participate in an individual gear inspection. Please be aware a properly fitted Coast Guard approved PFD, and a whistle or other audible signaling device. 

8am- Pre Trip introductions and safety brief

8:15am- paddlers depart Safe Harbor for Susquehanna River/ Lake Aldred area.

8:30am- arrive Big Indian Rock, crated introduction to the cultural landscape and archaeological research of the petroglyphs.

Things to bring:

1. Your kayak (PFBC Launch Permit required), paddle and safety gear (PFD & whistle)

2. Refillable water bottle

3. Wear appropriate clothing for getting wet, bring a change of warm clothing.

4. Wear secure, comfortable footwear with good traction.

5. Necessary personal medications.

Trip specifics:

This excursion is challenging, but safe for new boaters with the following considerations:

1. Please take the following Self Evaluation from the American Canoe Association ACA essential eligibility criteria

2. The conditions on Lake Aldred can be chaotic. The general route of travel however is to follow the main flow downstream (marked in blue), the return makes use of using the eddy created by the rocks and islands immediately below the Safe Harbor dam to attain the confluence of the Conestoga and ferry to the Ebola LowGrade Trail walking bridge (marked in green). For those uncertain of their ability to successfully navigate this route, an alternative downstream recovery location will be at the Pequea public boat launch (marked yellow). Shuttle will be arranged to pick up those boaters.

3. There will be 6 volunteer safety boaters and Conestoga VFD will have water rescue personnel on standby to support anyone having difficulty. 
4. Water temperature will still be above 65°F, however, air temperatures can be cool on the morning of our trip. Please dress appropriately in quick dry layers, and bring a change of dry clothing to keep in your vehicle.

5. Anyone with adaptive needs or with a body weight of 350# or more should contact the organizers to facilitate. 717-719-8214 ask for Todd Roy.