McHenry County Conservation District offers a variety of paddling activities

The McHenry County Conservation District is offering a variety of paddling activities in its parks this summer.

Registration is required for all events.

• Family Canoe Trip: From 9 a.m. to
3 p.m. June 23 or July 7 at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Road, Richmond. Spend a day in the wilds of McHenry County paddling
7 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 picnic, so bring a sack lunch and plenty of water to drink. Wear shoes that can get wet and are fully secured to your feet. Don’t forget sunscreen.

Children ages 5 and 6 can attend but must sit in the middle of the canoe. Be aware there are no restrooms along the creek. Register for one day only. The trip costs $15 for county residents and $20 for nonresidents. Adults and families age 5 and older.

• Lunch and Learn Kayak Trip: From 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 22 at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Road, Richmond. Join experts 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
7 miles and the skills to navigate the meandering course.

Kayaks are singles only. The trip ends at Pioneer Landing, where staff will pick up the kayaks and answer questions about what you saw on your journey.

Bring water and sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes that strap to your feet. All kayaking equipment will be provided. County residents cost $30 and nonresidents cost $38. Open to adults age 14 and older.

• Full Moon Nippersink Creek Kayak Trip: 7 to 11 p.m. July 27 at Keystone Road Landing, Nippersink Canoe Trail through Glacial Park, 6500 Keystone Road, 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. Sign up for this program 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.

This program is subject to cancellation depending on water level, weather or lack of moonlight from overcast conditions. Single kayak spots are available. County residents cost $20 and nonresidents cost $25. This program is open to those age 14 and older.

• Full Moon SUP: From 7 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 25 at The Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 Route 14, Cary. The MCCD has partnered with L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Schools to offer 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 paddleboarding, participants will head out onto the water just after sunset. An experienced guide will share interesting facts about the area’s history and the surrounding landscape.

As the moon rises, attendees watch for the wildlife that emerges after the sun sets. They’ll stop along the way to share a snack and take in the moon’s beauty.

Expertise, gear and glow lights are provided. This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and stand-up paddlers who want to get on a board and try something new. No previous paddleboarding experience is needed. County residents cost $20 and nonresidents cost $25. Participants must be age 14 and older.

Visit the MCCD's website at www.MCCDistrict.org to view all programs and events, or sign up to receive the seasonal magazine Landscapes.

Register online, 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 Road in Ringwood.

The MCCD exists to preserve, restore and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefit of present and future generations, its mission statement reads.