Sign up now for paddleboard lessons with MCCD
Learn what's "SUP" with "Stand Up Paddleboard" lessons with the McHenry County Conservation District. Registration is accepted online at www.MCCDistrict.org.
• "Sunset SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard" will be offered from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at The Hollows Conservation Area - Lake Atwood Shelter, 3804 Route 14, Cary. Enjoy a relaxing paddle as the sun begins to set on the horizon, painting the sky with a colorful array of light; it's a trip you will always remember.
Experienced guides from LL Bean provide a short paddling demonstration to get you started. Then you'll push off from the shore on stand up paddle boards. The guides will share interesting facts about the local history and point out the abundant plant and wildlife. You'll pause on the water for a moment to take in the last light of the setting sun. And as the full moon starts to rise in the sky, your tour will end with an easy paddle back to shore.
No prior stand up paddle boarding experience is needed. All paddle boarding equipment is provided. Synthetic clothing dries quickly and is the best choice for outdoor pursuits. Dress in multiple layers. The program for age 14 and older is $59 for county residents and $65 for nonresidents. Registration deadline is Sunday, Sept. 11.
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding Discovery will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at The Hollows Conservation Area - Lake Atwood Shelter, 3804 Route 14, Cary.
Discover how easy it is to balance on top of the water. This paddle boarding starter course is an opportunity to learn the basic strokes and skills you'll need for maneuvering a paddle board, allowing you to explore scenic lakes, coves and inlets.
The course begins with a brief introduction and safety talk with paddling instructors from LL Bean. You'll have the opportunity to practice each stroke by the shore.
After you feel comfortable on the water, you'll set out in a guided, interpretive tour with your group. Experience the freedom of skimming across the water, learning about the ecosystem and history of the area. All paddle boarding equipment is provided.
Synthetic clothing dries quickly and is the best choice for outdoor pursuits. Dress in multiple layers. Fee is $25 for county residents and $28 for nonresidents. Registration deadline is Sunday, Sept. 25.