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Outdoor Exploration
Discover the wonders of nature with our family-friendly outdoor programs! Our diverse offerings are designed to get everyone outside and engaged with our local parks and wildlife. Here are some highlights:
- Family Nature Hikes
- Scavenger Hunts
- Gardening / Forestry classes
- Fishing
- Park Conservation & Wildlife
- Outdoor Adventure Challenges
- Seasonal Activities
- Paddleboats and Kayaks
Paddling in Gahanna
Gahanna is uniquely poised to offer paddling access to the Big Walnut Creek at several of our parks. Portions of Big Walnut Creek are a designated Central Ohio Blueway. Click on drop downs below for more information about paddling programs, Paddle Gahanna and the Big Walnut Creek.
For information about Central Ohio Blueways including where to safely and legally access the water for paddle sports and information on current conditions and potential hazards, visit https://www.morpc.org/tool-resource/central-ohio-blueways/.
Seasonal paddle boat and kayak rentals are available at the Creekside Marina at Creekside Park. The season typically opens in late May and concludes in September. Reservations may be made online or in person.
For more information visit www.paddlegahanna.com
Learn the basics of paddling and get more comfortable on the water through this introduction to kayaking. ACA-certified instructors will provide a thorough dive into the techniques and skills needed to be a confident and safe kayaker. Participants will have time to practice skills in the water after on-land instruction. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided. This program is for educational purposes, not certification.
To register click here
This series was designed to take advantage of the sights of unique lunar events, including full moons and super moons! ACA-certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking on-land before heading out on the water. Kayaks (solo or tandem), life vest, and paddles will be provided, and guides will assist participants along the float. Program participants must meet essential eligibility criteria as this is a Level 1 paddling program. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
To register click here
Relax and enjoy the beauty of the Big Walnut Creek waterway right here in Gahanna’s backyard! ACA-certified instructors will provide a Paddling SmartStart introduction to kayaking. After the brief paddling instruction, participants will travel down the Big Walnut Creek. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles will be provided.
Short Float: This float will begin at Friendship Park and conclude at Pizzurro Park. Participants 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
All Day Float: Beginning at Morse Road kayak launch and ending at Pizzurro Park, this float is designed for those 18 and older and participants should come prepared to spend most of the day on the water. We will stop and enjoy a picnic lunch at Creekside Park, halfway through the float.
To register click here
- Woodside Green Park Access: Low slope and clear launch point (river right). Distance to next access: 1.95 miles.
- Creekside Park Access: Unimproved portage takeout (river left). Portage may be necessary at and below footbridge (dependent on water levels). Distance to next access: 0.25 miles.
- Friendship Park Access: Water access from Oklahoma Ave. via stairs or sloped gravel path (river left). No dock. Rocks at water’s edge can make footing difficult. Distance to next access: 2.09 miles.
- Pizzuro Park Access: Southernmost access point within Gahanna. Takeout point just beyond Hamilton Rd. bridge (river left) with dirt path to small parking area. Additional takeout point approximately 0.25 miles downstream adjacent to dog park and parking lot.
Caution: Waterway hazards change frequently. Fallen trees and other barriers can occur at any time and create additional safety hazards. Please paddle safely, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times.