Paddle & Hike Collective (Hamilton-Niagara Region)

Join us for a relaxing afternoon on the water at one of Hamilton's most scenic conservation areas! Christie Lake is a fantastic spot for paddlers of all experience levels, offering calm waters surrounded by beautiful forests and the Niagara Escarpment.

🚣 Bring Your Own or Rent One!
Don't have your own equipment? No problem! Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent at the Beach Store until 7:30 pm. Lifejackets are included with all rentals. Rentals are available in 2-hour, 4-hour, or full-day options.

🌿 What to Expect

• Scenic paddle around the 60-hectare reservoir
• Beginner-friendly conditions
• Great opportunity to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts
• Plenty of space to relax on the beach or enjoy the park after paddling

ℹ️ Good to Know

• There is an admission fee to enter Christie Lake Conservation Area.
• Meet at the Marina Pavilion boat launch. (Watercraft cannot be launched from the swimming area.)
• Christie Lake Entrance Fees Per vehicle and driver: $16.50

☀️ Bring water, sunscreen, and clothes you don't mind getting a little wet. Whether you're paddling your own kayak, renting a SUP, or trying canoeing for the first time, everyone is welcome!

See you on the water! 🛶🌊

# 🛶 Henley Island Kayak & Paddleboard Adventure

Join us for a relaxing afternoon on the water as we explore the calm, scenic waters surrounding Henley Island and Martindale Pond in St. Catharines! This is a great paddle for both kayakers and stand-up paddle boarders looking to enjoy nature, meet new people, and spend a summer day outdoors.
The launch at Henley Island provides easy access to Martindale Pond, a sheltered body of water known for its smooth paddling conditions, waterfront views, marshland, and abundant birdlife. We'll paddle through the quiet inlets of the pond - a route that is beginner-friendly while still offering plenty to see and explore.

📍 Meeting Location
Henley Parking Lot
St. Catharines, ON L2N 7H8

🛶 Paddle Details

• Date: Sunday, August 9
• Meeting Time: 2:00 PM
• Launch: Henley Island Kayak Launch
• Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours on the water
• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly (weather and wind conditions permitting)

What to Bring
✅ Kayak or paddleboard
✅ Life jacket
✅ Water and snacks
✅ Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
✅ Dry bag (recommended)
✅ Waterproof phone pouch (recommended)

Important Notes

• This event is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the event may be postponed or relocated.
• This trip is mostly straightforward flatwater, but certain hazards require attention:
• The dam at the northwest corner has no barrier. Stay well away; this area is extremely dangerous.
• Twelve Mile Creek contains strong currents in places. Avoid following the creek too far if you are not familiar with fastflowing water.
• Hydro barriers must never be crossed.
• This is a recreational, social paddle. We'll stay together as a group and paddle at a comfortable pace.

Whether you're looking to get some exercise, spot local wildlife, or simply unwind on the water, we'd love to have you join us. New members are always welcome!

See you on the water! 🌊🛶

Join us for the perfect summer afternoon with a short hike followed by a relaxing paddle at beautiful Valens Lake Conservation Area! We'll start by exploring one of the park's scenic forest trails before heading out onto the calm waters for an easy-going kayak or paddleboard adventure.

🚶 The Plan

• Meet at 12:00 PM at the Boat House parking area.
• Enjoy a leisurely 45–60 minute hike on one of Valens Lake's beautiful trails.
• After the hike, around 1:00 PM, we'll launch our kayaks and paddleboards for a relaxing paddle around the lake, including under the bridge and around the island.

🚣 Bring Your Own or Rent One!
No gear? No problem! The Boat House offers kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and rowboat rentals (weather permitting). Rentals are available for 2-hour, 4-hour, or full-day periods, and lifejackets are included.

🌲 Why You'll Love It

• Beginner-friendly hiking and paddling
• Peaceful, motor-free lake perfect for SUPs and kayaks
• Beautiful forest scenery and opportunities to spot local wildlife
• A fun way to meet other outdoor enthusiasts in the Hamilton/Niagara area

ℹ️ Good to Know

• There is an admission fee to enter Valens Lake Conservation Area.
• Meet at the Boat House near the boat launch.
• Rentals are first-come, first-served, so arriving a few minutes early is recommended if you need to rent equipment.
• Admission: Day-use admission is $16.50 per vehicle (including the driver). Each additional passenger over 5 years old is $5.50.

🎒 What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Water and snacks
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Clothes you don't mind getting a little wet
• Your own kayak or paddleboard if you have one (or rent one when you arrive!)

Whether you're joining us for the hike, the paddle, or both, come enjoy an afternoon of fresh air, great company, and beautiful scenery.

We can't wait to see you there! 🌿🛶