The Sojourn is a “GO” for Saturday, July 11, 2015. The weather is going to be spectacular with temperatures in the low 80s and plenty of sunshine. While the water level is higher than normal, this stretch is a fairly calm stretch of the Creek and the level will continue to drop overnight and into Saturday. We have also shortened the trip to 7.5 miles, so everyone will be shuttled to Larimer Park from Conewango Canoe and Kayak (our last water stop). Registration will begin at 7:30AM at the Frewsburg boat launch on Rt. 62 going into Frewsburg from the west. First presentation will be at 9AM also in Frewsburg, with a scheduled launch at 9:30. There is still time to register and attend this once-in-a-lifetime fun, educational event! For more details see below:
Come and join us for a unique Canoe Sojourn on Saturday July 11, 2015 to continue celebrating our 2015 PA River of the Year!
What is a sojourn?
A sojourn is a group paddling event (by canoe) whereby a small group of paddlers travels together downstream, stopping along the way at various points to learn about various facets of our unique waterway. Lunch and dinner will be provided for this event.
Where will it take place?
In this sojourn, we will begin at the launch in Frewsburg, NY along Rt 62, just west of Frewsburg. We’ll then all paddle together about 11.5 miles on Conewango Creek to Larimer Park in Russell, PA.
What will we do on the paddle trip?
During this relaxing venture we plan to have at least 4 stops along the way and engage interesting speakers from a variety of organizations to talk about topics ranging from our unique biodiversity, our history, our geology, our water trail development, and invasive species. Lunch will be provided (included) at one of the stops.
To wrap up the sojourn, we will provide a hearty dinner at the final stop in Larimer Park in Russell, PA.
What will it cost?
The cost is $40 per person. The trip includes the canoe/life vest/paddle rental, shuttling, a commemorative t-shirt, the opportunity to listen to four guest speakers, lunch, and a hearty dinner. Some costs will be paid for with the grant we have received for that purpose from PA Dept of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the PA Organzation for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR). If you register online at www.ccwaevents.org the fee will be $42 per person (the extra $2 is for online processing fees).
Can I bring my own kayak or canoe?
Yes you are free to bring your own boat. However, you will have to make your own arrangements for getting your boat to the Frewsburg Launch. And there will be no discount for using your own boat.
Is there a a discount if I bring my own boat?
No, there is no discount because the participant fee covers the costs that our grant will not cover: meals, t-shirt, snacks, etc.
Where do I park my car?
Park your car at Russell United Methodist Church on Main St. in Russell, PA. This this the ending point for the float trip so you will end where your car will be.
Is there a shuttle service available?
If you are bringing your own boat you will need to make your own arrangements for getting your boat to the starting point. We suggest you take your boat and drop it off at the boat launch in Frewsburg, NY and then take your vehicle to Russell, PA to park your car (volunteers there will direct you where to park). There will be a free shuttle for PEOPLE ONLY back to Frewsburg. The people shuttle service will begin at 7:30 am and end at 8:45 am
Where will check-in take place?
Morning check-in will be held at the Rte 62 Boat Launch of the Marden E. Cobb Water Trail just west of Frewsburg, NY. There will be signage along the road.
Is There a Registration Limit?
Due to the nature of a river sojourn, registration will be limited to the first 50 paid registrants. We accept checks, cash, or online payments with registration. Go to this link to pay and register online: www.ccwaevents.org . Forms will be mailed to you after you register online. Or click the links below to download all the necessary forms to register by mail.
How Do I Register?
Click the links below to download registration, emergency and other forms as well as trip information. Please review all information carefully and make sure you understand everything. Then mail in the forms to the address on them, or call 814-726-1441. You may also register online at: www.ccwaevents.org . If you register online, the information and forms will be mailed to you. Please fill out all forms completely and legibly and promptly mail back to CCWA.
If you have questions, please email us at info@conewangocreek.org or call us at 814-726-1441!
Form Instructions: Click on each of the links for ALL of the necessary forms. They will open up in a separate window/tab as a PDF file. Save the files onto your computer. Then Print the two required forms (Sojourn Registration Form and Sojourn Emergency Contact Form), fill them out, and either mail them or bring them with you to the event. Then download, print, and return the required Waiver forms (links below). All required forms must be filled out completely and turned in to participate.
Sojourn Policy (For your information)
Sojourn Registration Form (REQUIRED)
Sojourn Emergency Contact Form (REQUIRED)
Sojourn Important Information (For your information)
Sojourn Packing List (For your information)
Do I need to Sign A Waiver?
All participants and volunteers will need to sign at least 2 release of liability waiver forms. One for our insurer, the American Canoe Association (ACA), and one for the Conewango Creek Watershed Association (CCWA). For minors (under 18 years old) a separate waiver for the minor must also be signed by the legal parent or guardian. Separate sets of waivers must be signed for each individual. Filling these out and mailing them back ahead will save time at registration on the morning of the event.
ACA Adult Waiver (REQUIRED)
ACA Minor Waiver (REQUIRED, If participant is under 18)
CCWA Waiver (REQUIRED)
Do we Need Volunteers?
YES! We also will need plenty of volunteers for this event including: setup, parking attendants, registration, safety, handing out information, vessel put-in and take-out, serving food, tear-down, and cleanup.
What about Cancellation due to Weather?
The event will be held rain or shine. In the event that it is not safe to be on the water, a modified on-land program will be held instead. See our Facebook page or this website for updates regarding this. Registered participants will be called and/or emailed 12 to 24 hrs in advance of event cancellation.