The Lake Erie Islands are a hidden and unexpected treasure. Hiding in plain sight, just three miles from the Ohio shore and within minutes of the famous Cedar Point amusement park, these islands are rich in history from battles during the War of 1812, unique shops in quaint towns, the must see Benson Ford shiphouse, and of course, great paddling.
We will meet on Friday at Catawba Island at 12:00 pm to get ready for our journey to South Bass Island. After sorting and packing group and personal gear and talking logistics, we will make the three mile crossing to our waterfront campsite. After setting up camp, we will visit an abandoned lighthouse while exploring the island’s eastern side.
On day 2, we will island hop to destinations in the archipelago. Options include a circumnavigation of our island home or visits to Middle Bass Island and Isle St. George, based on weather conditions. Expect to have enjoy the days exploring the islands while working on personal paddling skills, visiting the spectacular Perry’s Victory’s Monument and looking for the Needle’ s Eye along the shore of Gibraltar Island, Lake Erie’s only natural sea arch.Â
Our final day will take us back to the mainland to prepare for our journey home.
Trip includes logistics planning, campground reservations and fees, parking, and all group meals while on the islands. Group members will be expected to assist with minor camp duties and sharing the load with group gear.
Group members are expected to provide their own boat (minimum 14′ 5″ with sealed bulkheads in bow and stern), personal paddling and camping gear, clothing, and snacks. Each participant will receive a gear list prior to the trip.
If ferry transportation should be required for or desired by any participants to or from the island, that transportation is not included and would be paid separately by the participant.
It is expected that participants interested in joining this trip will have participated in a minimum of three, full day journeys e.g. longer than 8 nautical miles, have experienced group travel with other paddlers, and have familiarity with self and assisted rescue techniques.
Cost: $100 per participant
Dates: June 14-16, 2019
Time: Meet at 12:00 pm on June 14
Location: Catawba Island, OH
