Participants will canoe the calm waters of the Ohio River where no large boats are allowed, then hike the fossil beds that are usually inaccessible by foot. Canoeing enables participants to see a large area in a short amount of time. Canoeists at this event often get close looks at shore and wading birds, including great blue herons.

Paddlers have two choices of meeting points. Those wishing to caravan to the river together should gather at the park?s interpretive center at 9 a.m. Those who prefer to meet at the boat ramp on Harrison Avenue should be there by 9:30 a.m. Organizers plan for the party to return around noon.

There is no charge or gate fee; however, canoes are not provided. Participants must either bring their own or rent one. Reservations for renting canoes can be made through Canoe Kentucky by calling 888-CANOEKY. Participants should bring a sufficient number of life jackets, drinking water, and sun protection.

Those interested should call (812) 280-9970 the day before the event to make sure the river level is safe for boating.

The next canoe hikes are scheduled for Sept. 9 and Oct. 7.

The nearby National Wildlife Conservation Area covers 1,404 acres. Those on the canoe hike will visit about a quarter of it. Hikes of the past have included about a dozen canoes, most with one person, some with two or three. The age of participants ranges from kids to grandparents. Anyone under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

Canoeists put in at the George Rogers Clark Home Site by 9:30 a.m. and spend about three hours exploring. During the trip, a naturalist will relate stories about the natural and cultural history of the area to those who are interested. Occasionally the hike will stop at a rock formation to explore it by foot, allowing participants to discover fossils seldom seen by visitors.