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.
Adventure brief
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.
Experience the serene beauty of Scotchman's Creek with a private Nature Paddle offered by Kula SUP in Earleville, Maryland. This peaceful paddle adventure invites you to glide through calm waters surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, the location offers a quiet escape from urban life with rich scenic views and a chance to connect deeply with nature. Along the way, you'll spot native birds and perhaps even a turtle or two sunbathing on the creek banks. The guided trip encourages mindful exploration, providing safety briefings and paddle tips to ensure a smooth journey. Whether paddling solo, with friends, or family, this experience combines gentle exercise with the calming influence of nature, making it perfect for relaxation and adventure. Kula SUP’s expert guides know the area well, highlighting points of interest and local ecology to deepen your appreciation for this underappreciated Maryland waterway. Accessible and peaceful, the Nature Paddle at Scotchman’s Creek is a wonderful way to unwind, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors in Earleville.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and key moments
The paddle moves from launch onto Scotchman's Creek, through calm, observation-friendly water, and finishes ashore with a brief ceremonial close.
Launch at Scotchman's Creek
Group checks equipment and launches onto the sheltered creek for an introductory orientation and safety briefing.
Mindful floats and sensory exercises
Participants slow the pace to float, sit, or kneel on boards while following guided sensory prompts inspired by Forest Bathing practice.
Connection to the Bohemia River & return
The route includes stretches connected to the Bohemia River before returning toward the launch for a closing tea ceremony.
All participants must be able to swim; beginners are welcome and may kneel or sit during the paddle. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in; operators may adjust the route or plan for group ability and conditions.
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.
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: 2026-08-07T13:17:11.121Z
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.