Lake Erie Islands Guide Developed for Paddlers

In response to the growing popularity of kayaking and paddle sports, a group of Great Lakes organizations have partnered up to release a new guide on the area. The publication, “Lake Erie Islands Water Trails,” contains information on paddling routes and advice for the area.

The guide brochure highlights five circular paddling routes, along with public access points, located around South Bass, Middle Bass, North Bass, Kelleys Island, and the Catawba and Marblehead peninsula area. In total, the routes cover more than 60 miles of paddling trails. Kayakers and other paddlers will be able to spot color-coded signs designating access points from the water. “Lake Erie Islands Water Trails” also includes information on safety, the environment, nearby amenities and paddling distances.

The brochure is a result of a partnership between the Put-in-Bay Township Park District; the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program; the Ohio Sea Grant; and funded by a grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the grand opening of the trails and the release of the brochure took place on June 9 at South Bass Island State Park during the annual Kayak Rendezvous

The guide is free and available at a number of area visitor centers, or online at go.osu.edu/LEwatertrails.