Paddle Myakka from Laurel Road

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VENICE MYAKKA RIVER PARK

Take I-75 to Laurel Road, exit 195. Drive east for two miles past VENETIAN DEVELOPMENT and the CITY OF VENICE FIRE STATION 3 at 5300 LAUREL RD. Keep going when the paved road turns into a gravel track.

You’ll find a pretty new kayak launch and gateway to the loveliest section of Sarasota’s wild and scenic river. Beautiful curves and bends. High bluffs and sandy banks. Gorgeous oaks draped with Spanish moss.

Between the parking lot and the dock is a 100-yard walk. Keep this in mind when you plan your trip. Bring your wheels at the launch as the parking lot is quite a ways from the water.

This will be approximately 4-5 miles up and 4-5 back from the Laurel Rd launch. Expect to take about 5 hours depending on how long we stop and the weather and river conditions.....About 5 miles upriver there are some areas with small rapids that we may have to portage over.

Also, this is a floating dock launch.

NOT FOR BEGINNERS! No RENTALS

Can be strenuous going upriver!

The current can be a bit strong at times. We will have a easy paddle back. This will be a experienced paddle only.

Bring your lunch and expect to see gators.

PLEASE ARRIVE AT LEAST 30 MINUTES prior to launch time as we will have a full day.