Sunday, July 14, 2024
Pemberton, NJ,
New Jersey, Central,
NJ
Paddle the 13-mile Rancocas Creek trail from Burlington County College's Pemberton through Historic Smithville and down to Mill Damn Park in Mount Holly, stopping to admire all the picturesque nature in between. This Burlington County creek supported Native Americans and European settlers for centuries and is now a popular spot for those looking to hit the water - and for good reason: the creek's distinctive, dark cedar water flows from the Pinelands. Plus, it is a great spot to see herons, turtles, beavers, alligators, and other wildlife. Anyone who has paddled elsewhere in the Pine Barrens and then tries Rancocas Creek will find it an anomaly. Its differences are profound: Its trees and bushes are typical of northern New Jersey woods, and its banks are usually firm, not sandy. Rancocas is a wide, continually meandering river graced by high banks where towering trees grow. It is easy, pretty, and a good stream for beginners willing to paddle the distance. The creek is named after an Indian tribe (which one is not clear). The Remkokes lived along the Delaware River, as did the Ancocus Indians. Mount Holly, on the banks of the Rancocas (where we take-out), is one of the oldest cities in the state, having been settled by Quakers in the late 1600s. Note: There will be at least one or two portages pending starting point A: Smithville Dam (265 Yards) on a mostly flat paved road B: Clarks Portage (88 Yards) at alternate Put-In. Distance: 13 miles / 6- 8 hours with breaks Registration is REQUIRED. Dope sheet will be sent to those who are registered about one week before the scheduled paddle. This will include exact timing. Rentals are available via FROG Canoe & Kayak Rentals. MUST HAVE PRIOR ARRANGEMENTS WITH LEADER AND VENDOR. Paddling is a water sport. We will paddle in light rain. A go/no go decision will be made by 7 pm the night before the scheduled trip. The trip will be canceled if: A.A: 70% chance of hard rain and/or thunderstorms in Smithville, NJ. B.B: USGS 01467000 North Branch Rancocas Creek at Pemberton, NJ, is below 85 cfs (1.6 feet) or above flood stage.
Free
