Safety briefings are held each morning, and all participants MUST attend these briefings. During these briefings, you’ll learn how river water behaves, how to read currents, and then how to paddle your craft most effectively. Once you understand a little about the physics of river water, you’ll be amazed at how well you do. Once we put on the river, there is always a period of practice during which your safety crew will help you with a few paddling tips.
The price you pay for registration includes lunch, educational programming, a bike, helmet, and canoe (if needed). Registration fees for each day are $55/adult, $35/child. If you sign up for all 3 days, you’ll receive a 10% discount.
The route for each day of the Sojourn is detailed below:
Day 1: Whitewater rafting through the Lehigh Gorge State Park from Drakes Creek to Glen Onoko
Day 2: Canoe/kayak and bike Bike on the D&L Trail from Riverview Park in Palmerton to downtown Jim Thorpe
Day 3: Canoe/kayak and bike on the D&L Trail from the Rt. 33 boat launch in Easton to Sand Island in Bethlehem
Of course! The Lehigh River Sojourn is three days long but participants are welcomed for as many days as you can make it – one, two or three! Be adventurous and join our through-trippers who sojourn all three days!
Swim apparel, rain gear, appropriate foot gear (sneakers, hiking boots, water shoes (NOTE: flip-flops are not appropriate foot gear), warm clothes (sweaters and/or jackets), emergency dry clothes, hats/visors, sunglasses, sunblock/suntan lotion, dry bag or double plastic bag (to keep things dry. You’re paddling in a river – there is a high probability that the stuff in your canoe may get wet), camping gear, snacks and any medication you will need. We also recommend a backpack to carry your belongings during the biking portion of the trip.
All kayakers must bring and wear a kayak helmet (Bike helmets cannot be used).
Remember to read the weather reports! The Lehigh River Sojourn is a rain or shine event. Please dress according to the weather.
Wildlands Conservancy is not responsible for any participant’s personal items on the Lehigh River Sojourn. Please be advised that if you decide to bring items into your canoe and/or raft you are solely responsible for them.
I want to go, but I don't have a canoe!
That’s fine! All you need to do is check the canoe rental box during registration! Please be advised if you need a canoe, you must come with a partner. Canoes will not be rented to single participants this year.
In case of bad weather or other external circumstances, Wildlands Conservancy does have the right to cancel or alter a portion of the Lehigh River Sojourn in order to ensure the safety of the participants. If a portion of the Lehigh River Sojourn needs to be cancelled or altered, participants for that day will be notified as soon as possible and a new date will be determined. There will be NO REFUNDS due to cancellation.
Wildlands Conservancy does reserve the right to alter any portion of the trip to ensure the safety of participants. Trip alterations can include the length of the trip, switching to rafts due to water levels or delaying launch times.
Please review the Daily Logistic Sheets provided on the web site for the days you are participating in the Lehigh River Sojourn. These sheets will familiarize you with times, places, meals, and events.
Maximum people per canoe = Two adults and one small child. If you require a canoe, you must come with a partner. Single seats in canoes cannot be rented at this time.
For your safety, please inform safety officers if it is your first time in a canoe.
Safety Briefings are held each morning. All participants are required to attend safety briefings each morning.
If using a canoe from Wildlands Conservancy, paddles and a Type III PFD will be provided.
Click here to read our entire Covid-19 Health & Safety policy.
No alcoholic beverages will be allowed on the river or at any Sojourn-sponsored event
No glass containers are permitted on the river
All participants must attend the daily safety briefing conducted by the Lehigh River Sojourn Safety Team Captain, Jerry McAward, before launching. Basic skill instruction will be available. Participants must adhere to safety guidelines presented.
Participants must wear a Type III USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) at all times on the river.
All directives of the safety officers must be followed in the event of bad weather, hazardous conditions, or an emergency.
No pets allowed.
All participants must sign a liability and photo waiver. Parents must sign for children under 18 years old.
No smoking.
Participants are responsible for their own trash/recycling and campsite clean-up.