Susquehanna Greenway Partnership Introduces Lumber Paddling Booklet

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) and Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) are thrilled to announce the release of a new booklet designed to enhance your paddling experience on the Susquehanna River Water Trail’s West Branch. This free booklet allows kayakers and canoeists to explore the logging history of the river while enjoying a scenic adventure.

Explore the Susquehanna River in a New Way

The Susquehanna River Water Trail is a state-designated water trail that caters to both motorized and non-motorized water recreation. The new booklet features four paddling itineraries that highlight the rich lumber heritage of Clinton and Lycoming counties. Each itinerary offers:

• Unique Paddle Routes: Detailed descriptions of each route.
• Points of Interest: Historical sites related to the logging industry.
• Route Maps: Visual guides for each itinerary.
• Put-in and Take-out Locations: Convenient access points along the river.
• Difficulty Ratings: Information to help paddlers choose suitable routes.
• Trip Highlights: Notable features and landmarks to look out for.

Overview and Historical Context

In addition to the itineraries, the booklet provides an overview of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and includes an article detailing the region’s historic logging activities. This context enriches the paddling experience, allowing users to appreciate the river’s significance in Pennsylvania’s lumber industry.

Distribution and Availability

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership and Lumber Heritage Region have partnered with the Clinton County Visitors Bureau to distribute the booklets for free. Paddlers can pick up their copy at the Visitors Bureau and start planning their adventure along the West Branch, which flows from Cherry Tree, PA to Northumberland, PA.

Enhanced Digital Experience

Alana Jajko, SGP Director of Communications & Outreach, highlights a unique feature of the booklet: an online component. Each itinerary includes a QR code that links to a virtual tour of the route, complete with maps, additional photos, information, and links. These storymaps allow paddlers to familiarize themselves with the route before setting off on their journey.

Paddling Checklist

For those new to paddling or in need of a refresher, the booklet includes a paddling checklist on the final page. This checklist helps ensure that all necessary preparations are made for a safe and enjoyable trip on the water.

Production and Funding

The Susquehanna River Water Trail West Branch Lumber Paddling Itineraries Booklet was produced by the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership in collaboration with the Lumber Heritage Region. Funding was provided in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program Environmental Stewardship Fund under the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. Please note that the booklet and its contents may not be reproduced without written permission from the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership.

About the Susquehanna Greenway

The Susquehanna Greenway is a corridor of connected trails, parks, river access points, and communities that link people to the natural and cultural treasures of the Susquehanna River. The mission of the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is to continue growing the Greenway by building connections along the river, inspiring outdoor engagement, and transforming communities into vibrant places to live, work, and explore.

For more information and to download the booklet, visit Susquehanna Greenway Partnership.