A Unique Opportunity for Families to Explore the Water
The pleasant weather at Riverside Park on a Friday afternoon and evening created an ideal setting for people to enjoy time on the water. Thanks to a special initiative by the City of Grand Rapids, residents had the chance to experience this activity for free.
“Once a month during the summer, Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation organizes what we call free family paddle nights,” explained Sam Truby, a Recreation Program Technical Supervisor. “This is a family-friendly event that allows people to try kayaking, often for the first time. We have a dedicated team here to teach participants about safety and how to kayak properly. All of this takes place in what we refer to as the lagoon at Riverside Park.”
Each kayak is available for a 20-minute session, offering attendees a peaceful way to connect with nature and potentially spot wildlife such as the Great Blue Heron. The Grand River, a significant natural resource in the area, provides a vast space for recreation and relaxation. The city aims to ensure that everyone in the community can access and enjoy this valuable asset.
“Engaging with the river is a great way to stay healthy, especially for families,” Truby said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, try something new, and get some exercise all at once.”
There will be one more free family paddle night this summer, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, August 15, at Riverside Park. The event is open to all and encourages participation from the entire community.
Safety and Accessibility
To ensure the safety of all participants, the city provides life jackets that fit various body sizes. For children under 10 years old, an adult must accompany them in a tandem kayak. Additionally, anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. There is no need to make a reservation to participate in the free paddle nights.
In addition to the free events, the city also offers kayak rentals for $5 per hour. These rentals are available every Saturday through August, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This option allows individuals and families to explore the water at their own pace and convenience.
Benefits of the Program
The free family paddle nights serve as more than just a recreational activity. They provide a valuable opportunity for families to bond, learn new skills, and enjoy the outdoors. By making kayaking accessible to all, the city is promoting a healthier lifestyle and fostering a stronger connection between residents and their natural environment.
These events also help raise awareness about the importance of preserving local waterways. As more people engage with the Grand River, there is a greater likelihood of community support for conservation efforts and environmental protection initiatives.
Final Thoughts
With the upcoming free family paddle night on August 15, there is still time for residents to take part in this unique and rewarding experience. Whether it’s the first time someone has ever tried kayaking or they are looking for a fun activity with their family, these events offer something for everyone.
By continuing to support programs like this, the City of Grand Rapids is creating opportunities for its citizens to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings while promoting health, safety, and community engagement.
