There's a perfect spot to kayak or canoe in the glorious
wilderness of Warren County, NJ... the glacial lake at Mohican Outdoor Center in Blairstown, NJ.
The Mohican Outdoor Center
is hiking, camping and paddling at their finest. Their site is located along
the Appalachian Trail and offers more rugged terrain and picturesque views as
compared to, say, Merrill
Creek or Round Valley
Reservoir.
To get there, take 80 to 94 into Blairstown. At the
Blairstown fire house, you'll see a sign for the Mohican Family
Center – turn there. I
believe there's a bunch more turns after that, and then you go up this rocky
hill into the woods. As you travel the wooded trail (by car), you'll eventually
come upon the Mohican Lodge on your left. You can stop in, use the facilities,
and pay a few dollars to rent a kayak or canoe to use on the lake. Parking is
just past there, on the left.
Once on foot, continue down the wooded path and pass a stone
barbecue type of structure. Shortly after this, you'll see another wooden
building – the boathouse. Amble down the rocks and tree roots, and you're
there.
In the boathouse, canoe and kayak paddles and life jackets
are located down below. And inside, there's a huge stone fireplace and big
windows overlooking the lake. I believe they hold yoga classes in there which
must certainly be a treat for those seeking divine inspiration from nature.
Continue on, with your paddles, down to the lake shore where
the boats and kayaks are. Not a lot of people typically show up here, so you're
almost guaranteed your pick. The mountain lake water is cold and crisp, and the
air always feels fresh and rejuvenating.
Jump in, and have a friend help push you off to get things
going. Ah, what a fabulous way to spend a sunny summer day! Just be sure to
avoid the rocks across the shore... that's where the rattlesnakes live.
For more information on this fine outdoor spot, visit http://www.outdoors.org/lodging/mohican/