“Everyone must believe in something. I believe I’ll go canoeing.” -Henry David Thoreau
Explore various waterways throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania. NHSM offers a variety of trips great for all levels of paddling experience. Join us for an incredible paddling experience!
Each trip is rated for beginner, intermediate, or advanced paddle levels. Please see the bottom of this page to find out your level.
“First rule of canoeing: never lose the paddle.” – Author unknown
Birding Floats at Wade Island, PA
Enjoy a front row seat to one of nature’s greatest shows. Wade Island is one of the largest nesting islands for wading birds in Pennsylvania including tiny and adult great egrets, black-crowned night herons, double-crested cormorants, and more! INTERMEDIATE
May 19, 31 | June 1, 14, 23
Petroglyphs Paddle on the Susquehanna River
Take a step back into history with this unique paddling experience! Located on the Susquehanna River just south of the Safe Harbor Dam is one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs (rock carvings) in the Northeast U.S. Found primarily on two islands named Big Indian Rock and Little Indian Rock, these petroglyphs are thought to be as many as 1,000 years old. The Algonquian people created these rock carvings that can still be enjoyed today, accessible only by kayaks, canoes, or small motorized boats. INTERMEDIATE
June 15 | July 13 | August 10
Full Moon Floats
Join us for a picturesque paddle to get an exceptional view of the full moon. The colorful sunset and bright moonlight will certainly provide you with a truly unique experience that you don’t want to miss! ALL LEVELS
Canoe Camping Trip at Codorus State Park
Exceptional paddles, beautiful views, toasty campfires, and a peaceful night’s rest…what could be better? Join us at Codorus State Park for an exciting overnight camping and canoeing trip this June! Gain paddling and camping skills with our expert trip guides and enjoy a refreshing night in the woods! This trip includes two lake paddles, a guided hike, an overnight stay at the campground, and free time to explore, swim, or just relax. ALL LEVELS
July 19-20 and July 20-21
… And More!
Check back here throughout the spring and summer to discover new and exciting trips!
Visit our Registration Page to sign-up
Volunteers Needed!
Volunteers must be able to help team-lift canoes and have paddling experience. We are also in need of drivers that can haul a canoe trailer with their vehicle to the trip locations. Drivers will be compensated monetarily and with paddle time.
If interested, please complete the Canoe Volunteer Interest Form. Contact Lauren Weaver at lweaver@marylandnature.org with any questions.
Paddle Levels
Beginner paddlers have little to no experience on a kayak or canoe. They are able to paddle forward and are most comfortable on flat water.
Intermediate paddlers have some experience on the water and are more comfortable with light rapids and moving water. They are able to move the kayak forwards and backwards with ease, as well as make turns and fast stops, and maneuver around hazards.
Advanced paddlers are the most comfortable on the water and can navigate through more vigorous rapids and high water. In addition to being able to perform all of the maneuvers from the intermediate level, they are also able to do advanced strokes and rescues.