Our first Pedal and Paddle of the year features some Pottstown Favorites!  Meet in Riverfront Park, bike to Ganshahawney and then paddle back to the borough and have dinner and drinks with your group at JJ Ratigan!

Waivers: You and every person you sign up to participate in this event will need to sign the two waivers listed below. Parents or guardians will need to complete the waiver for anyone under 18 years old. These waivers can be signed electronically and MUST be completed by noon May 31, 2023. If you don’t sign the electronic waivers by this time, you will need to complete them in person on the day of the event. Anyone who doesn’t complete the waiver will not be able to participate.

Event Location: This Pedal & Paddle event will begin at Riverfront Park. Participants will first meet at the Schuylkill River Greenways office (located right next to the park). The address is 140 College Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464.

Event Description: 4 PM – The Pedal & Paddle program is a round-trip adventure, beginning and ending from the same location along the Schuylkill River/Trail. The excursion includes a 4-mile bike ride along the trail using cruisers from the free Pottstown-based bike share program. It also includes a group paddle on Schuylkill River of the same length. Registration includes a meal and beer (for those 21 and up) at the JJ Ratigan Brewing Company in Pottstown. All gear and certified guides are included as well. Must be 16 or older to participate. Event is limited to 15 participants

What to Bring: All equipment, including bikes, kayaks, paddles and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided, and food will be served at the JJ Ratigan Brewing Company in Pottstown. However, it is recommended that you bring the following items.

• Prefilled water bottle/s with at least 32 ounces of water. For environmental and sanitary reasons, we prefer not to give out disposable water bottles.
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Hat
• Water shoes or old sneakers (backless sandals and crocs aren’t recommended)
• Bike helmet (we do have extras if you don’t have your own)

Any items, such as cellphones or keys that you do not wish to bring on the water with you can be left with staff prior to the start of the event.

Itinerary: Please note all times are approximate.

4:00 – Introduction and bike safety briefing

4:15 – Begin guided bike ride on the Schuylkill River Trail

4:50 – Arrive at Ganshahawny Park in Douglassville for water break

5:00 – Kayak safety briefing and paddle on the river back to Riverfront Park

6:30 – Arrive back at Riverfront Park then participants will have the option of walking or taking their vehicle to the JJ Ratigan Brewing Company for dinner and a beer.

This event is made possible through support from the Pottstown Area Health & Wellness Foundation, the Pennsylvania Dept. of Conservation and Resources and the generous donations of individual donors. Bike support and guides are provided by our partner outfitter Take It Outdoors Adventures.

We look forward to seeing you! If you have any questions, please contact us at events@schuylkillriver.org or call 484-945-0200.