EARLEVILLE SUP FIELD GUIDE
A slow, sensory paddle through Scotchman's Creek — SUP forest bathing led by a certified guide
A 2-hour guided stand-up paddle experience on Scotchman's Creek (connected to the Bohemia River) that pairs mindful Forest Bathing with hands-on SUP instruction; equipment is available for $50 or bring your own for $40.
A slow, sensory paddle through Scotchman's Creek — SUP forest bathing led by a certified guide.
Join Kula SUP and Certified Forest Therapy Guide Shelli Smith for a relaxed, two-hour stand-up paddle through Scotchman's Creek, a tributary connected to the Bohemia River. The outing blends slow, sensory explorations inspired by the practice of Shrinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) with unhurried paddling and concludes with a small tea ceremony designed to deepen awareness and connection to the natural world.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Forest Bathing on the Water
The paddle intentionally slows the group to encourage sensory noticing and mindful presence—participants float, pause, and listen to the creek environment with prompts drawn from the guide’s Forest Therapy practice, finishing the experience with a short tea ceremony.
Led by a Certified Forest Therapy & SUP Instructor
Shelli Smith combines credentials as a Certified Master Naturalist and Nature/Forest Therapy Guide with certification as a PSUPA and Kula SUP instructor, guiding both the sensory elements and the paddling skills for mixed-ability groups.
Scotchman's Creek into the Bohemia River
The route follows Scotchman's Creek—connected to the Bohemia River—offering sheltered, slow-moving water that supports a relaxed, unhurried downstream flow and plenty of opportunities to kneel or sit on boards for extended observation.
What the day feels like
How the outing feels
Expect a gentle rhythm: brief setup followed by guided breath- and sense-based exercises, long stretches of slow paddling where participants are encouraged to kneel or sit to remain present, and a closing tea ceremony. The emphasis is on slowing down—moving like a river that is unhurried but responsive—rather than speed or technical performance.
THE PRACTICE
Forest Bathing on the Water
The paddle intentionally slows the group to encourage sensory noticing and mindful presence—participants float, pause, and listen to the creek environment with prompts drawn from the guide’s Forest Therapy practice, finishing the experience with a short tea ceremony.
THE GUIDE
Led by a Certified Forest Therapy & SUP Instructor
Shelli Smith combines credentials as a Certified Master Naturalist and Nature/Forest Therapy Guide with certification as a PSUPA and Kula SUP instructor, guiding both the sensory elements and the paddling skills for mixed-ability groups.
THE ROUTE
Scotchman's Creek into the Bohemia River
The route follows Scotchman's Creek—connected to the Bohemia River—offering sheltered, slow-moving water that supports a relaxed, unhurried downstream flow and plenty of opportunities to kneel or sit on boards for extended observation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this paddle is best for — and who should skip it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring your own water, water shoes (required at this location), towel, sunscreen, hat or sunglasses, and a change of clothes. If you bring your own SUP you must also bring a USCG-approved life jacket, safety whistle, and SUP leash.
All equipment can be provided for $50; if you bring your own SUP the fee is $40. Class packages may be applied toward this event.
Please arrive 20 minutes before class to check in. Online registration closes six hours before class time; contact the operator if you need to schedule outside listed times.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the paddle?
The session is two hours in duration.
What are the costs and are rentals included?
All equipment included rental is $50; if you bring your own board the fee is $40. Class packages may be applied toward this event.
Is there an age limit or fitness requirement?
Participants must be at least 16 years old and all participants must be able to swim.
Can I use my own SUP?
Yes; if you bring your own board you are required by law to bring your own USCG-approved life jacket, safety whistle, and SUP leash.
Do I need to bring water and footwear?
Yes—please bring your own water. Water shoes are required at this location; also bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
When should I arrive and how do I register?
Arrive 20 minutes before class; online registration closes six hours before the start time. If no class times are listed you can contact [email protected] or call 443-350-5439 to arrange a time.