Sample Paddling Trips

Ten Mile Creek Canoe/Kayak Trip

River Town: Fredericktown-Millsboro
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6-8 miles

Ten Mile Creek, a tributary to the Monongahela River about 25 miles south of Pittsburgh, provides a scenic, peaceful paddling opportunity. A well-maintained boat launch can be used at Ten Mile Creek County Park, but requires a Washington County launch sticker. The cost of the sticker is only $7.50 and it is good for all Washington County boat ramps.

From the launch, paddle upstream. The channel becomes broader and too shallow for power boats. Although the stream runs about ten miles, the water is only deep enough to paddle about 3-4 miles. Fisherman can catch smallmouth, largemouth, and an occasional trout. After paddling upstream, you can enjoy an easy float back to the Mon River.

Contact: Washington County Department of Parks and Recreation, 724-228-6867.

Source: http://www.paddling.net/places/showReport.html?1862

California to Brownsville—Canoe/Kayak Trip

River Town(s): California-Coal Center and Brownsville
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 4 miles

Canoes and kayaks can launch from the California Public Boat Launch, located where Union Street goes under the railroad tracks to meet the river, after the intersection with First Street. Parking is located one block away in the gravel lot behind the sewage treatment plant. Limited on-street parking is also available on First Street and Union Street.

It is a relatively easy four mile paddle upstream to the Brownsville Riverside Wharf Park, on river right. If using multiple vehicles to shuttle equipment, your trip can end here. Or, pull out and secure your boat, then walk into town for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. It will be an easy float back downstream to the California boat launch.

Contact: California Borough Recreation Authority at 724-938-3569 or Brownsville Area Revitalization Corporation at 724-785-9331.