Join Fairmount Park Conservancy and Hidden River Outfitters for an evening guided two-mile kayak tour on September 21 from 5:45–7:30 PM. Kayaking on the tidal Schuylkill River below the dam offers a whole new perspective on our city and its water source.
Tour departs from the Walnut Street dock along the Schuylkill River Trail and heads upriver to the Fairmount Water Works, where you’ll experience a rarely-seen perspective of these historic structures from the water below. You’ll also enjoy spectacular views of the Art Museum and the city skyline! Experienced kayak guides will share interesting facts at the Water Works.
No gear or kayaking experience necessary — kayaking equipment and instruction provided.
INSTRUCTOR BIO: Jason Mifflin has owned and operated Hidden River Outfitters since June 2010. From homemade rafts to sea kayaks, Jason loves to be on the water in anything that floats. He spent much of his life paddling a canoe until he discovered kayaking about fourteen years ago. He appreciates both whitewater and flatwater kayaking for their respective exhilarating and relaxing qualities. Jason enjoys sharing his passion for being outdoors with others and reconnecting people with the rivers they often appreciate but never experience. Jason loves to get folks out on the water, regardless of their experience, and expose them to paddling. Also, as a native of Philadelphia, he enjoys recounting the history and function of many of the areas that we encounter on our tours.
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TICKET PRICES: Pay what you can – $40, $50, or $60
[ Not sure what to pay? Please refer to this Sliding Scale Pricing FAQ for additional info. ]
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
-All attendees must sign a waiver (provided by Hidden River) in order to participate.
-Parental consent is required for those 18 years and under. Not recommended for those under 12.
-The kayak is roughly two miles roundtrip (moderate exertion).
-Please dress according to weather conditions.
-Bring your own water and snack (drinking water is not available in the park).
-There are limited bathrooms nearby so please plan accordingly.
-Bring bug spray and sunscreen.
-All tours begin with a brief safety talk and an on-shore kayaking lesson.
-There will be a spot to lock up belongings (backpacks, cell phones, etc.) during the kayak tour.
PARKING/GETTING THERE: There is paid street parking nearby. As always, NEVER leave valuables in your car! If traveling by public transit, there are bus stops located at Market Street and Schuylkill Ave, Schuylkill Ave and JFK Blvd, and 23rd Street and Market – all a little over 1/4 mile walk. The nearest Indego bike station is at 120 South 24th Street.
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY: This event will take place in light rain. In the event of heavy rain or other severe conditions, the event will be canceled and attendees are eligible for a full refund.
QUESTIONS? Please reach out to [email protected]
Enjoy our programs? Become a Supporter of Fairmount Park Conservancy to help ensure that Philadelphia’s parks are enhanced for generations to come! Supporters enjoy special benefits like early registration access for events and our Park Perk Pass, which offers discounts and benefits throughout Philadelphia.