Business/Event
    Business/Event

    SUP lovers paddle their way into connecting with others in Easton, MD

    Six people on paddleboards on the water

    Have you been on a stand-up paddleboard yet? In Easton, it is easy to get with the Eastern Shore SUP group and enjoy adventures in our rivers and creeks. Kate Richards, who supports the group events, insists that every paddler who shows up becomes a part of the “Paddle family.” Paddlers of all ages are welcome to join in. The group was originally founded as WAHE SUP by Dede Flood in 2015 and has grown substantially due to the abundance of waterways and enthusiastic participants in the area.

    Inspiring others to connect is a passion for wellness consultant Richards, who can’t get enough of this simple but impactful sport. “My love of being on my board & out on the local waterways has grown each season…There is a meditative aspect to paddling solo that I’ve not experienced with any other sport. I frequently feel like I can’t get enough time out there-there aren’t enough hours in the day!”

    Each Thursday night, the group sets off from their home base on Easton Point on 957 Port Street for a leisurely paddle down the Tred Avon during their free Summer Social Thursdays. There are quite a few twists and turns, coves, and creeks to explore. Papermill Pond, Jack’s Cove, and Shipshead Creek are just a few of the romantic spaces to find. Turtles, blue and green herons, fish, osprey, bald eagles, and cownose rays are some of easy-to-spot wildlife. Trailer and car parking are available. Access to Easton’s newest walking trail, Easton Point Park, and Phillips Wharf Environmental Center are all close by attractions. Car parking is free. Permit fees to allow for ramp/trailer use at all of Talbot County’s landings are only $45. Mail-in registrations instructions and locations for purchasing are many – list at Talbot County Parks and Recreation website, https://talbotparks.org/landings/.

    In addition to the weekly paddles, the crew enjoys coordinating larger events across the region. They are frequently partners with Easton Cycle and Sport, among other organizations. They are excited to announce their first official Paddle Race, a circumnavigation of nearby historic Tilghman Island scheduled for August 6, 2023. Paddlers can stay in Easton, which is a short drive away to the starting, or splashing, first mark! Registration is active now on Paddleguru, https://paddleguru.com/races/TheCircumnavigationTilghmanIsland

    Richards, a Paddlefit Certified SUP Instruction & Excursion Guide, notes that participation and enthusiasm is growing for the sport, and she plans to offer beginner instruction soon. “The group really grew over last year – we made some beautiful connections that has allowed us to get a feel for what people are interested in.”

    To read more about the group, find them on Facebook, Eastern Shore SUP (ESSUP) or email Easternshoresup@gmail.com. To learn more about traveling and lodging in Easton, please visit www.DiscoverEaston.com.