Kayak Around Bannerman's Castle, Orange County Departure

Paddle amid the scenery of Cornwall Bay, Storm King and Sugarloaf mountains and the Hudson Highlands for an up-close view of the ruins of Bannerman's Island.

Bannerman's Castle is located on Bannerman's Island (formerly known as Pollopel Island) in the Hudson River, a few miles south of the Beacon-Newburgh Bridge. The castle was built as a weapons arsenal by Francis Bannerman VI, a businessman who dealt in military surplus from the Spanish-American war. Today, the island is owned by Hudson Highlands State Park. Read more about the history of the island at the Event Host's adventure blog.

This is an intermediate paddle as the Hudson River is tidal which may make paddling strenuous at times. The river, while wide, here is frequently used by power boats and barges. This paddle can be strenuous for kayaking newcomers. As with all kayaking trips there is a risk that your boat could capsize and you could get wet. All participants should know how to swim and be comfortable on the water. Be prepared with a set of dry clothes in the car just in case.

TRIP DETAILS
Four to six miles of paddling from Plum Point park in New Windsor, over to Bannerman's Castle and back. We will be paddling perpendicular to the current and tides both ways.

Estimated Yak Time: 3 hours

Meeting at Plum Point Park (We will launch from the the southern beach to the right as you enter, walkway is across from the portapotties by the handicapped spaces).

Plum Point is the top fork prong sticking into the river on the map below. A technical issue prevented me from affixing the Google Map pin on the right place on the map.

Special Gear / Requirements: Kayak, lifevest, sunblock, energy food and water. Kayaks 12-ft or longer are recommended.

KAYAK RENTALS AVAILABLE.
Rentals come with life jackets, paddles and transport of the boat to and from the put-in. Visit www.AWAYAdventureGuide.com or e-mail Mike at AWAYAdventureGuide@gmail.com to reserve a boat. Payment is by Venmo ($75 each).

DISCLAIMER: You are responsible for bringing appropriate gear, supplies, clothing, first aid, and lights. You should review topographic maps, tide charts and route features carefully; have confidence in your swimming and self-rescue ability and know where you are, where you're going, and how to get back. You assume full responsibility for your preparedness, welfare and well-being.