Beginner and veteran alike will enjoy this leisurely paddle through the protected waters of Elkhorn Slough. This estuarine preserve is home to hundreds of species of birds as well as marine mammals, fish, and plant life. Learn the basics of paddling including forward stroke, body positioning, launching, and landing.
Here's what you need to know...
Who Can Come? Minimum age for a child paddling tandem with an adult is 8 years. Minimum age for a single paddler is 13. This tour of Elkhorn slough in open deck sit-on-top kayaks is perfect for beginners with little or no experience. Paddlers need to be fit enough to participate in several hours of physical activity as well as be good swimmers. If you have any doubts, you should consult your physician.
Where Do We Meet? Two options for meeting: 1) 8:30 AM, Park 'n Ride at Camden Avenue and Highway 85
OR
2) 10:00 AM, Monterey Bay Kayaks, 2390 Highway One in Moss Landing
What's the Paddle Like? Monterey Bay Kayaks opens at 10:00 am, at which time we’ll rent from them and get geared up with wetsuits and some basic on-land instruction. Our goal will be to paddle 4 miles in to Kirby Park, the only landing zone in the slough, where we'll have lunch. After lunch we'll quickly paddle back towards Moss Landing (how quickly depends on the tide). Optional: Rendezvous after the paddle at Charlie Moss’ or the Lighthouse Harbor Grill on Moss Landing Road.
What Should I Expect from My Guides? You'll be traveling with professional guides who are certified in CPR and Wilderness First Responder (advanced first aid). We carry maps, emergency gear, dry bags, and rescue equipment. On the Elkhorn Slough paddle we'll be talking about
Wetland ecology, tides, and sloughs
Launching, landing, and paddling your kayak
Paddling safety
Low impact paddling
Monterey Bay Kayaks will provide: Kayak, paddle, wetsuit, life-jacket, paddling jacket, and basic on-land instruction.
What You Should I Bring?
Swim suit
Towels
Warm synthetic top layer (NO COTTON)
Footwear that can get wet (neoprene booties are great for warmth)
Hat (warm hat for the AM and brimmed for the PM works well)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Water
Small daypack that can get wet
Guides will carry dry sacks for anything that must stay dry.