FESTIVAL UNBOUND

Meet at the Sand Island boat launch (turn right after the bridge) for a guided, and accessible (see details below), canoe tour with our community partner, Wildlands Conservancy, where you’ll learn more about the beauty of the Lehigh River that flows through Bethlehem. Touchstone will guide you on a creative writing journey with a chance to share what you wrote with DNLHC (Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor) who want to hear all about how you experience the river and trails of the Lehigh Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a newcomer eager to explore, this family-friendly, guided canoe paddle offers a unique opportunity to experience the Lehigh River’s natural beauty. Limited to 20 participants, so be sure to register to enjoy a memorable day on the water!

WHAT TO EXPECT

LOCATION: The boat launch is located on the west side of Sand Island – 56 River St, Bethlehem, PA 18018. Enter from Lehigh & Main St, at the STOP turn right. Continue on going past Fritch and under the train trestle bridge and there you’ll find ample parking at the boat launch.

WHAT TO WEAR/BRING:

• Appropriate clothing (wool, man-made fabrics and multiple layers work well, cotton doesn’t), dress in layers including hats and gloves for cooler weather.
• Closed toed secured footwear that can get wet and muddy is best. No flip flops or loose sandals.
• Light rain gear, if necessary.
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (light reflects off water, increasing chances of sunburn).
• A change of clothing and shoes, double-bagged in plastic for waterproofing if desired.
• Lunch or snacks in a waterproof bag if preferred.
• Drinking water in a plastic, re-closable bottle (no glass containers).
• You might also want to bring your/a journal to write in.

THINGS NOT TO BRING:

• Anything in a glass container
• Any electronic device 
• Phones (unless in a waterproof container)
• Anything that can’t get wet
• Smoking is not permitted on any portion of this trip

RUN TIME: 3 and a half hours.

• 9am – Please be prompt as the program begins at 9am 
• 9-9:30am: Welcome and informative natural history presented by Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor
• 9:30-11:30am: Wildlands Conservancy gives canoeing instructions and then we hit the water!
  • Course: Paddle upstream along the picturesque Lehigh River, exploring the metro wilderness and immersing yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors.
  • Experience: Enjoy a guided tour with experienced staff, who will ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure as you navigate Bethlehem’s scenic river stretches.
  • Return: After taking in the sights and sounds of nature, we will paddle back downstream to complete the journey at Sand Island.
• 11:30-11:45am: Back to dry land where we will have a short break with light snacks (compliments of DLNHC) and an opportunity to use the restrooms at the Ice House. Transport to the Ice House will be available for those who need it.
• 11:45am – 12:30pm: Touchstone will lead a solo writing prompt. You will have the opportunity to share what you wrote at the end.

PROVIDED EQUIPMENT:

• Tandem Canoe/Paddles – if you do not sign up with someone in particular you will be partnered with another solo paddler. 
• Personal Floatation Device or PFD.
• Expert guidance from experienced staff.
• Dry bags supplied by Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor.
• Printed out writing prompts, paper, pens, and clipboard for your reflection writing.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Participants should be able to paddle a canoe upstream as part of the adventure.
• Ability to sit without support for a period of 1-2 hours.
• No prior experience necessary; guidance and support will be provided.
• Ages 4-15 must be accompanied by a guardian.

ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION: We are committed to making our paddling event as inclusive for everyone as possible.

• This paddle is designed to accommodate various physical abilities.
• If you have specific needs or require special assistance, please let us know during registration so we can ensure a positive experience for you. We ask that you submit any requirements with plenty of time – 3 weeks prior, by 9/15 – so that we have ample time to accommodate. Any late requests may not be able to meet your needs.
• Please note that our paddling event requires participants to have the ability to paddle a canoe upstream and the event’s activities and equipment may not be suitable for all wheelchair users.
• We encourage those interested in adaptive sports to explore other specialized events like those offered by Team River Runner that better meet their needs.
• Voice amplification will be used by presenters.
• Large print copies of the creative writing prompt will be available.
• Touchstone strives to create an environment where all members of our community feel welcome. Please contact (610) 867-1689 or via email at jacqui@touchstone.org or sam@touchstone.org to request accessibility accommodations in advance.