Paddle Lake Erie with Lake Metroparks in kayaks. Previous paddling experience required. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. All participants must be registered.

Lake Metroparks is pleased to offer the Spirit of America Youth Boating program to graduating seventh-grade students this summer at Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park. Spirit of America is free, meets national safe boating standards and gives students hours of hands-on boating experience in varied craft. Most importantly, Spirit teaches youth safe habits around the water. The program is also fun and allows students to make friends while gaining confidence.

Students will learn power boating, paddling, sailing skills and complete the Ohio Boaters Education Course. Students must attend OBEC on May 4 and 11, 9am to 4pm, and must achieve 70% on a multiple-choice test to attain OBEC certification. Testing accommodations such as readers and extra time are available upon request.

Program time is split between on-water and classroom. Expect students to be on or in the water each day during the on-water/water safety portion of this program.

Upon registration, you will receive an email receipt. With the receipt, look for a parent information packet and authorization form. The authorization form must be filled out and returned with the student on the first day of class.