Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Following a successful debut last spring, the hiking and kayak group known as Naturally Outdoors in L&A is back for another season of adventure, starting May 4.
Founded by local outdoor enthusiasts Steph Munday, Harley Cunningham and Rob Plumley, the group invites members of the public to join them in weekly hikes and paddles throughout the county.
“The season starts May 4 with a paddle, starting at the King Street boat launch in Napanee,” said Munday. “Launch time is 6:30 p.m. so participants should be ready and in the water at that time. Thursday May 11 at 6:30 p.m. is a hike at Menzel Centennial outside of Roblin, and Thursday May 18 at 6:30 p.m. is a paddle starting at the Napanee downtown boat launch (at the Waterfront Restaurant). The schedule and links to directions on Google maps are always found on our website.
Most of the events will begin at the same time and will continue to be on Thursdays. There will be a few Saturday events planned, and they will include some doubling up of hiking and paddling – which was my favorite last year.”
A full schedule can be found on their social media accounts Facebook, Instagram (both @naturallyoutdoorsla), email (naturallyoutdoorsla@gmail.com) and website (https://naturallyoutdoorsl.wixsite.com/naturallyoutdoorsla).
The majority of events will be held within a 30-minute radius of Greater Napanee, with hikes generally within the 4-5 km range with paddles lasting an hour to and hour and a half.
“These events are good for all levels – beginner to advanced,” said Munday. “For paddling, we just ask that you have some experience paddling and be comfortable in the water – the first time out in a boat should not be with us. For hiking, just a basic fitness level to complete the hike, but we always take water breaks when needed. Some hikes are more challenging than others so we just ask that you know your limits. Participants do need their own boat and equipment for the paddle events. Canoes, kayaks, and SUPs are all welcome. One absolute necessity is a safety kit -containing a flashlight, whistle, rescue rope and baler bucket or bilge pump – this is a requirement for all paddlers by Transport Canada.”
Along with a great way to get outside this spring and summer, the group was also a great way to meet other outdoor enthusiasts.
“It was well received,” Munday said of the first year of Naturally Outdoors L&A. “The first event was a hike at Menzel Centennial and we had over 20 people attend. Numbers ranged from eight-24 for the rest of the season. There was a core few who came to most of the events but we saw a wide range of attendance – people from Kingston to Bellville, of all ages and skill levels. A few individuals always stuck around afterward and we had some refreshments at local restaurants, which was a nice way to finish off the day.”