Summer Kickoff Paddle in Susquehanna County

Join Endless Mountains Heritage Region (EMHR) on Saturday, June 7, 2025, for a day-trip paddle on the Susquehanna River North Branch Water Trail. Participants should meet and check in at the Phantom Fireworks of Great Bend shopping Plaza (25059 US-11, Hallstead, PA 18822) by 8 a.m.  

Paddlers will then be shuttled to the Oakland Township PA Fish & Boat Commission launch following a welcome and safety briefing. They will then embark on a 12-mile paddle along the “Great Bend” section of the Susquehanna River’s North Branch from Oakland Township back to Hallstead, crossing over the site of the former Oakland Hydroelectric Dam that was removed in the fall of 2023.  

Participants should bring sunscreen and hats, appropriate clothing and footwear (rain gear as well, just in case), a sufficient supply of water, and a dry bag to keep supplies in. This year’s paddle will benefit the Susquehanna County Conservation District, which will provide educational programming during lunch at the Great Bend PA Fish & Boat Launch. 

The cost for this event will be $60 to bring your own boat, $110 to join and rent a single kayak, or $130 to join and rent for a tandem kayak or canoe. The cost of this event includes lunch, insurance, shuttling, and a donation to the Susquehanna County Conservation District. Space is limited, so register now