We’ve wanted to kayak Pine Creek for about 15 years, since we first gazed down on it from high on the western rim of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.
It’s a beautiful creek, with fast moving water through steep canyon walls (sometimes). But it’s also relatively gentle – the rapids are no more than Class I or Class II – similar to the Delaware, for those who went on that trip last year.
It’s also only deep enough to run through May, usually. If the water is too low, we’re going to switch to a different section, above the canyon, which should be deep enough, though less exciting.
If the water is cold, anyone can rent a wet suit at the last minute from the outfitters.
When we get off the water, we’re heading to Wellsboro House Brewery, where the owner Chris Kozuhowski has promised us a full tour because he thinks – correctly – that Canoe and Brew is “badass.” Check out the brewery website — it looks like Wellsboro House is pretty badass, too! Thank you, Chris Donato, for getting us in touch with him!
Some folks are planning to spend the night. We’ve got tent sites reserved for however many show up at Crooked Creek Campground. The more people who join us, the less expensive it’ll be (right now, we’re looking at about $23 per person for both nights. Colton Point State Park also offers camping on a first-come, first serve basis.
Register for this event HERE
Date: Saturday, May 26, rain or shine!
Brewery: Wellsboro House Brewery
Outfitter: Pine Creek Outfitters
The price: $15 per head for the shuttle, including your boat. Kayak rentals are $35 per person; all are single-person kayaks. Canoes are $25 per person and require two people.
If you need a boat, contact the outfitter NOW because they’ll run low on boats. If you just want the shuttle, there’s no need to contact the outfitter individually this time – just register through this website with how many of your group will use the shuttles. But be sure to let us know if you’re going to cancel by the night before by calling Susan at 570-441-2774 – otherwise your friendly organizer will be stuck paying a no-show fee!
FIRST: meet at Rattlesnake Rock parking area (link to map here) to load boats.
River Beginning: Pine Creek Outfitters boat launch, Ansonia. (link to map here.)
River Finish: Rattlesnake. (link to map here.)
Total Miles: 17 miles
Estimated Time on the River : 5 to 6 hours
Schedule
- 9:30 AM: meet at Blackwell to drop off vehicles and unload boats.
- 10 AM depart Blackwell via shuttle.
- 10:45 AM: arrive Pine Creek Outfitters put-in in Ansonia.
- 11 AM: launch boats and depart on river.
- 4 or 5 PM (we think): Finish at Blackwell and head for the brewery.
Canoe & Brew Susquehanna 