Join the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association at the 5th Annual Trail Creek Fun Float

nwi-paJoin the Northwest Indiana Paddling Association for their 5th Annual Trail Creek Fun Float, an Indiana Coast Month event celebrating the natural splendor of our Lake Michigan Coastline. Last year, 147 canoeists and kayakers took part in this 6 mile trip from Lake Michigan to International Friendship Gardens and back. This year's Fun Float will emphasize the native ecology and natural history of Trail Creek, as well as ongoing restoration and revitalization efforts throughout the watershed.

A reception for Fun Float participants will follow the event at Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W. 2nd St., adjacent to Washington Park where an exhibit featuring the paintings of artist Barb Labus. Barb is noted for her paintings depicting the ecology and natural landscapes of northwest Indiana. Paintings include those commissioned for the Indiana DNR Coastal Program, the Burnham to Marquette Water Trail Expedition, as well as the Shirley Heinze Land Trust South Shore, and the Lake Michigan Water Trail South Shore Posters. In addition, a second exhibit featuring fish prints created by local students will be on display. Visit www.lubeznikcenter.org or phone 219.874.4900 for more information.

FREE parking in Michigan City's Washington Park - (just tell the attendants that you're with the Fun Float) FREE commemorative T-shirt FREE paddler's reception from 1pm to 3pm at Lubeznik Center for the Arts

Click here to see a photo gallery from last year's Fun Float.

Where and When: Paddlers should meet at Michigan City's Washington Park Boat Ramps by 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 11. Registration opens at 8:30. All paddlers must sign a waiver; a $5 donation is suggested to help develop paddling opportunities in Northwest Indiana.

Boat Rental: No Boat? Chicago River Canoe and Kayak will provide rental canoes and kayaks at a flat rate of $30. You must contact Ryan Chew at (312)823-3384 or ryanwc@sbcglobal.net by September 10th to reserve your canoe or kayak.

Event Sponsors to Date: Northwest Indiana Paddling Association, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, NIPSCO, Michigan City Parks & Rec, Chicago River Canoe & Kayak, Shirley Heinze Land Trust, Indiana DNR Coastal Program, Michigan City Port Authority, and the LaPorte County Soil and Water Conservation District, Family Express, and Gelsosomo's Pizzeria.

Contact Dan Plath regarding becoming an event sponsor.

More questions? Contact Dan Plath: dplath@NWIPA.org, (219)871-9559 or visit www.NWIPA.org.