Paddlefest event set at Delaware Seashore State Park Aug. 26

The staff of Delaware Seashore State Park is continuing the 50th anniversary celebrations with a Paddlefest, a brand-new event for the state park, launching from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 26. The event could be described as a paddling 5K, or a scavenger hunt via kayak.

"We've been offering kayak eco-tours for over 10 years, but we figured with the 50th anniversary being this year, it was time to try something new and different," said Laura Scharle, interpretive programs manager for the park. "Most people come to our park to enjoy our beautiful beaches, but few people stop to enjoy the expansive salt marsh habitat and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the bayside of the park. This event is the perfect opportunity to check it out."

Participants will launch at Savages Ditch Road and paddle a 4-mile course that ends at New Road. Along the way, park naturalists will be stationed throughout the course to share tidbits about marsh ecology and local maritime history, and to hand out snacks and other goodies. The first 50 people to complete the course will receive a Delaware State Parks water bottle. At the end, participants will receive a certificate of completion. There will also be a food truck, photo ops and the 50th anniversary park history exhibit on display. Transportation back to the beginning of the course will be provided.

Paddlefest is free to enter, but preregistration is required. Due to the length of the event, previous paddling experience is required. For more information or to register, call 302-227-6991 or go to destateparks.com. For information about kayak rentals, call Coastal Kayak at 302-539-7999.