Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
‘Paddle the Iowa’ set for Aug. 19
Jul. 5, 2023 1:29 pm
Paddling enthusiasts are invited to bring their kayaks or canoes to South Amana Saturday, Aug. 19, and paddle down the river to Homestead. This event is self-guided and doesn’t have a specific start time. Organizers suggest getting on the river around 10 a.m. and packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the many sandbars along the way.
The event is free. No registration is required. Participants must have a life jacket for each person in the river, and it should be worn at all times.
From 9 to 11 a.m., the Amana Colonies Visitors Center will run a free shuttle between South Amana and Homestead. Paddlers can drop their kayaks or canoes off in South Amana, then park their vehicles in Homestead to be ready at the end of the trip.
Canoe rentals will be available this year. Contact River Dock Canoe Rentals to reserve a canoe at (319) 332-8715. Limited same day rentals will be available.
This event is subject to weather and river conditions. If it is not safe to be on the river, organizers will make an announcement on The Amana Colonies Convention and Visitors Bureau Facebook page.
The South Amana Public Access Ramp is dirt and sand. The route is walkable and drivable with large/tall vehicles, but some smaller vehicles will not be able to make it down to the river.