Canoeing

The canoe is one of the oldest forms of water transportation, following the common raft. The early canoes were dugout designs made from a single tree trunk. Later canoes were constructed of frames that were then covered with animal skins, fabric or tree bark. The early Americans used a birch bark covered canoe that was surprisingly strong despite its fragile appearance. Canoes have a shallow draft that allows them to carry through low depths of water and white water rapids. Canoes are also light enough to portage around waterfalls and other impassable obstacles.

The canoe played an important role in the early French exploration of North America. This craft was the perfect mode of transportation to negotiate the New World by waterways. They’re light enough to get around impassable stretches of water, yet tough enough to withstand months of impact with rough obstacles while loaded with the means of support for the explorers.

Canoeing has become popular sport activity for lovers of the outdoors. While quietly floating down a slow moving stream, the canoeist becomes part of the surrounding nature. Wildlife that gives human intruders a wide berth can be observed and photographed as the canoe quietly and smoothly glides down the stream.

For the more adventurous, the canoe offers the excitement of traversing white water using skillful strokes of the paddle. This skill is even tested in Olympic contests bringing out the best in athletes that specialize in paddling sports. The canoe presents an opportunity to truly enjoy the pleasures of a versatile water sport that can be combined with swimming and hiking.