Kayaking Blog | First Coast Outfitters

Touring the Trees at Lofton Creek

Posted: May 14 in Kayaking Blog tagged , , by

Touring the Trees at Lofton Creek The blackwaters at Lofton Creek wind in and out of trees of all shapes and sizes, lining the water and providing a perfect canopy for a kayaking retreat. The protected hardwoods surrounding Lofton Creek are made up of a variety of tree species, which are really what make this creek special—the way the river winds and narrows is due to fallen trees that are now blocking the water.

Within the larger forest that surrounds the river, Lofton Creek is home to a grand cypress tree that has been a part of these waters for 2,000 years and extends more than 150 feet into the air. In addition to this oldest tree, the forest surrounding Lofton Creek is filled with other cypresses that are well over 500 years old. Cypress trees are a special sight that you don’t get to see too often while running around the city. With knees that stand above the soil, cypress trees can offer the façade of appearing as if they have grown right out of the water.

Most prehistoric forests of cypress are extinct, but here in Florida we have the benefit of being able to kayak right up to the base of some of the oldest living things you can find anywhere. Being close to these ancient growths is enough to make you feel lost as you glide in and out of the forest’s cover.

Also at Lofton Creek are an abundance of maple trees. This is one species that is native to North Florida. Native trees are especially important to take care of, as so many invasive species of plants move into our soil and require extra maintenance, often impairing the ability of our native plants to flourish. The Florida Sugar Maple is one native species that you can find while exploring Lofton Creek.

While you are gliding down Lofton Creek, the branches of our native plants will protect you from the blazing sun. Bay and red maple trees shade the water by creating a canopy of leaves. The densely wooded nature of this forest makes it a difficult terrain to explore on foot, which makes knowing how to kayak a big advantage.

In addition to the nature at Lofton Creek, this kayaking tour will take you under old railroads—something that younger kayakers often seem to enjoy. The nature of the wooded canopy makes this a great expedition for those who want to hit the water without getting too much sun.

 

Sea Kayaking Safety Equipment

Posted: May 04 in Kayaking Blog by

When you’re first learning how to kayak, knowing how to stay safe on the open ocean is of the utmost importance. Wind and waves can pose serious risks in sea kayaking and if unprepared, capsizing can spell trouble. Navigational equipment is important to avoid getting lost in the open water and receiving proper training in a kayaking course is your best bet in staying safe.

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Explore Nature in its Pristine State

Posted: Apr 24 in Kayaking Blog by

Just south of Jacksonville, nestled between the Faver-Dykes State Park and Princess Preserve is Pellicer Creek, a pristine waterway that glides through miles of primeval pine forests that is home to more than 100 species of birds. Starting from the east end of the paddling trail, you will head out from the kayak launch at Princess Place Preserve, a natural park that is made up of 1,500 acres of scenic bliss. The placement of this trail makes just getting to the water an adventure in itself, as the land surrounding the stream is filled with hiking trails, salt marshes and even an equestrian campsite.

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What to Look For when Buying a Kayak

Posted: Apr 10 in Kayaking Blog by

There is a lot to consider when you are purchasing your first kayak. What type of water are you hoping to paddle through? What skill level are you on the water? What are you doing on the water—sightseeing, fishing or just relaxing?

Having the right type of equipment can really make your kayaking experience. Understanding what your personal goals are can help you to make the right purchase.

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Touring Jacksonville’s Historical Plantations

Posted: Mar 08 in Kayaking Blog by

Although the natural sights and sounds of Florida’s waters are spectacular in themselves, there are also beautiful and historical sites where families can both learn and enjoy a relaxing kayak tour. The Kingsley Plantation Historical Tour is known to be one of the most family-friendly and historically intriguing on-water tours in Jacksonville. This slave-era plantation sits on Fort George Island, leaving paddlers a nice hop over to the plantation before setting foot on land. The water here is near crystal clear with its blue-green hue, and the animals in the area are all but shy. In fact, one might think they had paddled into their own little Caribbean.

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Guana Six Mile re-opens for the Season

Posted: Feb 29 in Kayaking Blog by

Every year from October through February, the Guana Six mile preserve closes for duck hunting, but it is OK because makes us get excited about opening day! It is one of the most beautiful and historical places to visit; especially now through May, before it gets too hot!

With ten miles of winding tributaries and intimate waterways to explore, the Guana Lake portion of the GTMNERR is one of the most unique environments on the east coast of Florida. This amazing ecosystem offers extraordinary views of “Real” Florida wildlife in their wild habitat.

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ACA Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island Exploration Journey

Posted: Feb 29 in Kayaking Blog by

Join the ACA Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island exploration journey!! Days one and two of this event will be based on Jekyll Island. Our first venture will be to the south end of St. Simon Island (from North end of Jekyll) via St Simon Sound. Along the way we will be doing some navigation and ACA / BCU paddling skills challenges. We’ll explore some of the beaches of St. Simon upon landing.

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Salt Run and the Matanzas River

Posted: Feb 29 in Kayaking Blog by

There is a lot to do in North Florida, particularly near the east coast, and whether you are looking to explore a city on the water like St. Augustine or enjoy one of the amazing paddling tours in Jacksonville, there is really something for everyone. With such low-lying areas, North Florida has swamps and rivers everywhere, and you can always count of them to be brimming with wildlife. Some of the most popular of these are the Salt Run and the Matanzas River.

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Experience History at Ft. George Island

Posted: Feb 21 in Kayaking Blog by

A North Florida kayaking trip down the Ft. George River is a fantastic and educational trip. Jacksonville tours are a wonderful choice for kayaking during which you can experience nature and history from the salt marsh creeks and turquoise blue waters of Ft. George Island. This adventure is filled with an abundance of wildlife and [...]

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Kayak Fishing in Jacksonville

Posted: Jan 27 in Kayaking Blog by

Kayaking is by far one of the most thrilling and exciting experiences one can have. It provides a rush of adrenaline as well as a full and complete workout. It would almost seem unheard of to pair this exhilarating sport with the laid back style of fishing. However, when combined, these two polar opposite endeavors [...]

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