Columbia Montour Quarterly Vol. 5: July-September 2022

Seasonal Programs & Events for Everyone! Quarterly Feature: Ricketts Glen State Park by Jenn Puckett

Westover

Most of us know about this beautiful park, famous for its Falls Trail System showcasing 22 stunning waterfalls. This gem also features 245-acre Lake Jean, popular with kayakers, swimmers and fishermen. But did you know that during the spring, summer and fall, Ricketts Glen also offers an amazing number of events, led by DCNR staff and other professionals? And the best part? It’s all free! You can learn about fly-fishing, geocaching, birdwatching and so much more. Want to learn to kayak? There’s a program for that. I was able to experience this informative class with Rhiannon Summers, Environmental Education Specialist on a sunny day at Lake Jean. I had some basic kayaking experience but even if you don’t have any and are simply curious, this is a great class. Though I’d been on the water before, I’m always a bit nervous as I’m not a what you’d call a naturally graceful person. I met Rhiannon just past the boat launch at the lake. My first impression of her was someone who absolutely loved what she was doing and couldn’t wait to share it with others. She made me feel welcome and safe. She asked me about my experience kayaking, and then we got started. First, we got on our personal floatation devices, otherwise known as a PFD or lifejacket. In the few times I had kayaked, I always wore a lifejacket. I’m not a strong swimmer and I always knew if the worst happened, I would need a PFD. In ten minutes, I learned that everything I thought I knew about wearing a lifejacket was incorrect! Rhiannon carefully went over exactly how it was supposed to fit and why it was very important to wear

one. She went over paddling techniques, what to do if the kayak should capsize and more. Then it was time to get in the water. This was my first experience with flat-water kayaking. As we scooted our kayaks into the lake, Rhiannon was with me every moment. In the shallows, we worked on my paddling skills and then off to some slightly deeper water. It was amazing, different from any other boating experience I’d ever had. There’s a feeling of being cradled by the water, without having to fight the current or tide. Once we got back to shore, I felt

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