With the unofficial start of summer comes the familiar sight of kayaks in the Schuylkill River, and Schuylkill River Greenways is committed to bringing that experience to more people each year. 

Their signature event, the Schuylkill River Sojourn, attracts paddlers from across the country for an epic seven-day paddle beginning in Schuylkill Haven and ending at the famous Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. This year’s event begins on Saturday, Jun. 15, and ends on the afternoon of Friday, Jun. 21.  

This year’s theme is The Living River, with educational programs focusing on the aquatic life and native plants found along the river.  

While 200 paddlers have already signed up, there are limited spots available for day paddlers and registration has been extended to Jun. 7. There is still time to join fellow kayakers for opening weekend and the approach to the city skyline.  

Also back again this year is the popular Pedal and Paddle events that combine cycling on the trail with paddling on the river. Each event highlights a different area of the historic watershed, inviting attendees to enjoy the beauty and importance of the watershed. No equipment or experience is necessary to participate in a Pedal and Paddle event, and a meal is included with each trip. The first Pedal and Paddle will be “Discover Pottstown,” with a trip from Riverfront Park to Ganshahawny and dinner to follow at JJ Ratigan’s.  

Find more information on the Schuylkill River Sojourn, Pedal and Paddle, or any of Schuylkill River Greenway’s events at Schuylkill River Greenways. The mission of the Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area is to connect residents, visitors, and communities to the Schuylkill River and the Schuylkill River Trail by being a catalyst for civic engagement and economic development to foster stewardship of the watershed and its heritage. 

Learn more about the great ways to explore Montgomery County and the Valley Forge area at Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Center. The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board is a private, non-profit membership sales and marketing organization that actively promotes the Valley Forge area and Montgomery County as a convention site and leisure visitor destination by promoting patronage of its member hotels, restaurants, attractions, and services.