Explore Cary's Lake Atwood - by canoe

This weekend visitors to Cary's Lake Atwood are invited to see the lake from a whole new perspective - right on the water.

On Saturday, May 30 the McHenry County Conservation District will hold its first "Paddle in the Park," an event that gives canoe and kayak enthusiasts, as well as those unfamiliar with the sport, a chance to make a splash.

Held at The Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 Route 14 in Cary, "Paddle in the Park" is free to the public and offers a new view of a familiar spot.

"Those who have paddled on the various rivers around here would tell you that it gives you a completely different perspective of the community around here," said Chuck Castellanos, a historical educator who will be giving a presentation at the event.

Beginning at 10 a.m. visitors will can participate in canoe and kayak paddling clinics, purchase paddle sports gear from a variety of vendors that will be on-site and hear a presentation by Castellanos, who will be dressed as an 18th century voyageur and will have trade goods on display.

Castellanos believes it is important to recognize the canoeing's importance in early American history.

"Most people fail to realize that we didn't have horses in America prior to European contact, so the best mode of transportation would have been boats," he said.

According to Castellanos, visitors will be offered the chance to paddle a 26-foot long voyageur canoe replica.

In addition, several local canoe and kayak clubs will be on hand with information on local river trips.

Andy Talley, education program coordinator for the McHenry County Conservation District, hopes "Paddle in Park" will draw a couple hundred paddle sports fans who don't have many opportunities like this in the suburbs.

Castellanos agrees, noting that paddle sports remain "relatively unknown" to the general public.

"Where we live here in northern Illinois is a major hub as far as waterways are concerned," Castellanos said. "(Paddling sports) provide a different venue and a different way of seeing the forest preserve."

For information, call Prairieview Education Center at (815) 479-5779 or visit mccdistrict.org.

Paddle in the Park

What: McHenry County Conservation District's first "Paddle in the Park" event, which includes canoe and kayak paddling demonstrations, paddling sports retailers and an appearance by historic interpreters to illlustrate the role canoeing played in early American history

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30

Where: Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 Route 14 in Cary

How much: Free; food will be available for purchase.

Details: Call the Prairieview Education Center at (815) 479-5779 or visit MCCDistrict.org.