Learn to Paddle

Washington County Parks is partnering with Wild Rivers Conservancy to teach beginners from diverse backgrounds how to paddle kayaks this summer! Programs will take place at either Square Lake Park (15450 Square Lake Trail N, Stillwater, MN 55082) or Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park ( 9653 Keats Ave S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016).

Pre-registration is required. This program is recommended for ages 12 and above with a limited number of participants based on the location. A daily Washington County Parks permit will be provided for each participant and the registration link will close on Monday prior to the scheduled date. To ensure that all who would like to participate are able to, there is a limit of one, two hour session per person.

Registration is prioritized to the following community who lives in Washington County and identify as one or more of the following demographics:

• Black, Indigenous, People of Color
• Ages 65 or older
• Low-income (Annual income of 60k or less)
• LGBTQIA+
• Disability

Please contact Elena Schewe, Parks Equity Program Coordinator with any questions or if you would like to be added to the waitlist at [email protected] or 651-430-4333.

Funded by the Metropolitan Councils Equity Grant Program.

Cost: Free

Vehicle Admission: Free (daily park permit will be provided for each participant)

Bathrooms:

• 1 Male/Female restroom and 2 – 3 stalls.

Where to Meet:

• Park in the most south parking lot and walk to beach area to meet near the boat launch area

Recommended items to bring/wear:

• Swimsuit, and/or tops and bottoms that dry quickly
• Layers like a light long-sleeved shirt and jacket (moisture-wicking fabric is always a plus), or rain gear, if needed
• Extra clothing and undergarments
• Extra pair of shoes
• Hat
• Water
• Sunscreen

Cancelation Information:

This event will go on as planned with sun, heat and light rain. For the safety of participants and staff, this program may be canceled due to severe weather, such as lightening or thunderstorms. Participants will be notified via email and event pages will be updated if the program is canceled.

Host or Publisher Wild Rivers Conservancy