Lincoln Park Springfest Paddle

Friends of Lincoln Park hold their annual "Springfest" on May 13th from Noon to 3 pm. Visit the Pavilion for snacks and community resources. Then Paddle at 1 pm.

BYOB (Bring your own boat). Feel free to ask in the discussion is someone has a spare boat.

The route will depend on water levels. But we always leave and return to the same location, the Lincoln Park boat landing. This paddle is led by Nearby Nature Milwaukee, an environmental justice and equity initiative trying to close the nature gap for black and brown adventurers, but all are welcome to attend.

General info about Paddling in Lincoln Park:
Some routes may require you to exit and enter your boat in shallow water during dry weather spells (not expected for this paddle). A highlight is if we have enough water to paddle the beautiful and wild East Oxbow of Lincoln Park with its cattails, waterfowl and a beaver lodge. The Park features a 50 acre pond with 3 channels and 4 islands on the Milwaukee River. Lincoln Park is appropriate for canoes, kayaks or paddle boards. We plan to put in and take out at the same landing, not shuttling.
Most stretches of water are fairly calm and appropriate for novice paddlers, most of the time. Some areas may require a higher level of paddle skills. We will accommodate all levels of paddlers but some previous paddling experience is recommended but not required. We will focus on paddler safety.
High or low water may affect the route or force cancellation if high/fast water makes the route unsafe. Check weather conditions and be prepared. The Estabrook water level Gage is the best indicator of conditions. Ideal conditions are 2.5-3.5 feet. Above 3.5 feet is considered too fast for safe paddling. Under 2.5 feet, some routes may be difficult. Under 2 feet, plan to get out and drag your boat over sand bars.
Keep a change of dry clothes in your car and always wear a PFD. A PFD is required by state law.