WEST FALLS KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Armed Forces Day Paddle — A May 16 salute on the Susquehanna
A commemorative kayak and canoe outing in West Falls: choose a 4- or 5-mile route, all gear supplied, and free passage for eligible service members.
Armed Forces Day Paddle — A May 16 salute on the Susquehanna.
On Saturday, May 16, Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals - Falls River stages a riverside tribute: an Armed Forces Day Paddle on the Susquehanna that pairs Northeast Pennsylvania’s broad-water scenery with a community‑minded welcome for service members and their guests.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
Choose the 4‑mile quick trip or the 5‑mile extension; along the way expect broad river scenery typical of the Susquehanna in West Falls.
Put‑in / Launch
Launch from the operator’s Falls River put‑in and begin the downstream paddle across the Susquehanna.
Mid‑river stretch
A sustained paddling stretch that constitutes the main scenic portion of either the 4‑ or 5‑mile route.
Take‑out / Finish
Finish at the scheduled take‑out after either the 4‑mile quick trip or the 5‑mile trip, concluding the event.
Arrive early for check‑in and a safety orientation and be prepared to present a valid military ID if you claim the Armed Forces Day complimentary spot; trip length choices and supply of basic paddling gear make this an accessible river outing, but follow the operator’s guidance posted at check‑in.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Free trips for active service members and veterans
Active duty military, veterans, and reservists with a valid military ID may join the paddle at no charge — a straightforward, practical way the operator marks Armed Forces Day.
Two scenic distances on the Susquehanna
Paddlers can pick a 4-mile quick route or a longer 5-mile run, letting groups tailor outing length to schedule and stamina while staying on the same scenic corridor.
All paddling equipment provided
Kayaks, canoes, paddles, and life jackets are supplied by the operator so participants can arrive ready to paddle without hauling their own gear.
What the day feels like
What the paddle feels like
The event unfolds as a community paddle down the Susquehanna: brief check‑in and a safety orientation, then a relaxed 4‑mile option of roughly two hours or a 5‑mile option of roughly three hours through Northeast Pennsylvania’s river corridor. The pace is conversational; the focus is on honoring service and enjoying open water scenery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who belongs on this paddle
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Choose a 4‑mile Quick Trip (about 2 hours) or a 5‑mile Trip (about 3 hours); the full listed duration for the event is three hours.
The operator provides kayak or canoe, paddle, and life jacket — participants do not need to bring craft or flotation for the paddle.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure for check‑in and a brief safety orientation; active duty military, veterans, and reservists must present a valid military ID at check‑in to claim the free trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who can paddle for free on Armed Forces Day?
Active duty military, veterans, and reservists may enjoy a free kayak or canoe trip on May 16 when they present a valid military ID at check‑in.
Are family members and friends allowed to join?
Yes — family members and friends are welcome to join the paddle at the operator’s regular trip rates.
What route options and durations are offered?
Participants choose between a 4‑mile Quick Trip (approximately 2 hours) or a 5‑mile Trip (approximately 3 hours).
Is gear provided or do I need to bring my own kayak?
All equipment is provided, including kayak or canoe, paddle, and life jacket.
When should I arrive for the event?
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check‑in and a brief safety orientation.
Who operates the event and where is it held?
The paddle is run by Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals - Falls River on the Susquehanna River in West Falls, Pennsylvania.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:01:14.192Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.