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April 2021 Go Play Outside News
Events, tours, classes and products for outdoor lovers

Special Note - All programs offered at Shank's Mare are designed to abide by current Covid restrictions. Please wear a mask when visiting us. Thank you.
Welcome to the Shop...

Another new kayak line has landed at Shank's Mare. Take a look at the 12.5' Lightning Strike, a pedal drive fishing kayak with lots of features. We add Lightning to our 2021 line-up including Hurricane, Delta, Liquidlogic, Crescent, Bonafide, Vibe, Kaku and Jackson Kayaks.

Just a reminder...we are already experiencing supply chain issues as we did last season. If you want to be ready for paddling, stop down and visit with us sooner rather than later!
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Riverkeeper Paddle Tour Series
This series offered in conjunction with the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper is back for a second year. Each Paddle Tour explores a different section of the river as we highlight the issues important to the health of the Susquehanna.
Sat. July 17, 2021, 9:30am-2:30pm
For hundreds of years the Susquehanna has been a highway for its settlers. Commerce has flowed continuously, and its effects accumulate. As we paddle this historic area, Riverkeeper Ted Evgeniadis will inform you about how industry and development along the river over the last several hundred years have left a mark on the region and the environmental issues that the Riverkeeper monitors as a result.
Sun. August 7, 2021, 9:30am-2:30pm
Head downriver from Wrightsville and enter the area of the Susquehanna called Lake Clarke formed by the Safe Harbor Dam at its southernmost point.  Explore the entry of many creeks on this stretch of the river including Kreutz Creek, Kline’s Run, Canadochly Creek, Cabin Branch, Bull Run, and Fishing Creek.  Riverkeeper Ted Evgeniadis will outline how each creek brings its on impact to the river, and how the Safe Harbor Dam traps much of the sediment etc. deposited along this stretch of the river.
Sat. August 21, 2021, 9:30am-2:30pm
Explore the Lake Aldred area of the Susquehanna formed by the Holtwood Dam.  The Conestoga River and Otter Creek flow into this part of the river delivering run-off from farming operations throughout Lancaster and York Counties. Riverkeeper Ted Evgeniadis will outline the environmental issues this partnership presents to the river.
Sat. September 11, 2021, 9:30am-2:30pm
Two different energy producing operations, Muddy Run and Conowingo Dam, occupy this section of the river. Harnessing the mighty Susquehanna produces energy for us all but presents important environmental considerations at the same time. Riverkeeper Ted Evgeniadis will discuss how those facilities provide both benefits and drawbacks to the Susquehanna. 
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Paddle Tour Series
Our paddle tours are kept small so our guides can treat you to all there is to admire about the mighty Susquehanna. Click on the links to register online.
Sat. July 24, 2021, 8:30-11:30am
The Flats, located just across the river from Shank's Mare, is listed as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society. During mid to late summer, it is a popular migratory area for shore birds. Guest birder, Deuane Hoffman will help guide this tour to view what guests may be visiting the Flats.

Sat. July 31 or Mon. Sept. 20, 2021
9:30am-2:30pm
The rock formations, glacier scoured potholes and hidden spaces are fascinating on this unique part of the Susquehanna. The scenery alone makes it one of our favorites. There is a great spot for lunch and a restored canal lock to explore as well.

Mon. Aug. 16 or Sat. Oct. 2, 2021
9:30am-3:30pm
The rock carvings seen on the large rock formations on this part of the river are among only a few such areas east of the Mississippi. Our guides will lead you to these rocks and you will be able to leave your kayaks and take in the carvings left by Native Americans who inhabited this area centuries ago.
Disc Golf Courses in Full Swing (or Throw)

Kline's Run Park, Pinchot, Codorus & Sam Lewis State Parks, Herr and Buchmiller Parks, Ship Rock...so many options in our area for playing Disc Golf. Shank's Mare offers a nice selection of discs and accessories. We are happy to help you get started in this fun new outdoor activity for the whole family.
Spring Paddling Safety
I think we include this article in every Spring newsletter, but it's an important one. While those early season 60 degree days tempt us to launch our kayaks for that first paddle of the year, unless you are properly outfitted that paddle could be trouble. Even though the air temperature and sun are warm, water conditions including temperature, flow rate, and debris are real hazards. You need to be properly clothed for cold water paddling including wet or dry suits, hydrophobic layers, and of course, your pfd (lifevest). Your kayaking skills should be sufficient to handle currents and flow rates. Your trip planning should include knowledge of the waterway and potential hazards like tree limbs and floating debris. Do a responsible, early season paddling trip checklist and be safe on the water. Happy Paddling!
Kayak & Paddleboard Rental Season

Mother Nature controls the start of our kayak and paddleboard rental season on the river. We need to see water and air temperatures reach a safe level and flow rates behave. Sometimes we can begin in early to mid-May, but other times it may be later than that. As always your safety is our first concern. Stay tuned - we'll keep you posted. We are ready for another busy season on the Susquehanna!
Paddling Classes Open for Registration
Click on any of our Class titles for dates and registration.

If you are just getting into kayaking, or if you want to ensure proper stroke and kayak control technique, here's a good start. This 2-hour class taught on sit-on-top kayaks will go through touring strokes, maneuvers, body position, proper enter and exit technique, paddle use, and more. Begin here and get the most out of your kayak adventure with good paddling skills.
Moving into cockpit kayaks, this 4-hour class will teach you everything from kayak and paddle design and features to entering and exiting the kayak to strokes, braces, and maneuvers. Also highlighted are wet exits and on-water re-entry techniques that are important skills all paddlers should have for safe adventures on the water.
Stand-Up Paddleboards are so much fun and these classes will sharpen your skills for a great time on the water. The Basic SUP Class teaches body position and stroke techniques. The SUP Yoga Class combines basic SUP instruction with Yoga practice. Both feature a tour with your instructor and tips to get you on the way.
Paddle & Dine with Shank's Mare and John Wright
Join us as we partner with our friends at The John Wright Restaurant for two different Paddle & Dine Options.
Wednesdays, 6:00-8:00pm
June 9 or 30, July 14 or 28,
August 11 or 25, 2021
Just thinking about this program spells summer on the river! Join our guides as they take you on a leisurely paddle between the bridges in Wrightsville, Then make your reservations and head in the John Wright Restaurant patio for their delicious outdoor summer menu including wood-fired pizza. Tour includes all your gear with a discount if you have your own. Register now for this popular program!

Sundays, 8:30-10:30am
September 5 or 26, 2021
Ditto on the same format as above, but Sunday Brunch is on the menu. Enjoy a leisurely guided paddle, then make your reservations at John Wright for Sunday Brunch.
Calendar Contest
IN THE SHOP...

Right now we have a pretty good selection of gear (click above for current list) with more arriving this month. Just a heads up...we already know we are going to have supply issues once again this season.
So, get geared up sooner rather than later.