Half-Day Paddle on Lake Quinsigammond

"Paddling Poo in the Dirty Woo"

Mostly sunny skies and temps right around 80°F greeted our group of seven as we assembled on the shore of Lake Quinsigammond in Worcester. We were to set out on a 3-hour tour and did just that despite the tale of the ill-fated S.S. Minnow, and the signs warning of high coliform bacteria levels. Three of our group had schlepped their own kayaks, with representation in the folding, inflatable and standard rigid-hull categories. The remaining four, including myself, rented our craft rom the fine folks at Regatta Point Sailing Community. "2 singles and a tandem." The order was filled quickly, we donned our PFDs and were ready to go! The proud boat owners launched from the sands of Goose Shit Beach while the renters took a more hygienic route via the comparatively clean rental dock. Once on the open water, our fears of contracting cholera quickly dissolved into laughter and friendly conversation, and we set to the task at hand...a 3- mile paddle to the southern end of the lake to enjoy a peaceful marshy area just south of route 20. The lake was almost devoid of motorcraft, a pleasant surprise on a beautiful summer Saturday! We enjoyed a relaxed pace throughout the day, allowing for plenty of good-humored chat and a few daring paddle splashes of poo-water. We were even given the opportunity to bear witness to an African baptism, an interesting treat that none of us could have expected. After returning/deflating/folding/car-topping our trusty vessels we headed to nearby Shrewsbury Street for a bite. Unfortunately, this newbie trip leader (more accurately "instigator") had chosen a spot that would not be open for another 2 hours...DOH! But no harm, no foul. The area is known as restaurant row, and we found an alternative literally 2 doors away. After breaking bread, we parted ways with friendly salutations and wishes to get together on a future outing soon. Overall a win provided there's a little extra bleach in the next load of laundry!

Join the party for a fun half day of paddling on Worcester's renowned Lake Quinsigammond! Known to have one of the finest competitive rowing courses in the world, "Quinsig" has been a popular spot for rowers, paddlers, sailors and motorboat enthusiasts alike. At about 4 miles long the lake provides plenty of elbow room for those who like to paddle hard, as well as peaceful coves and several small islands to explore. So whether you're looking for a good workout or more of a relaxed pace, this trip has something for you...just bring plenty of sunscreen and your best inner child! (Super-Soakers not required, but recommended.)

We will be gathering at Regatta Point Park in Worcester, MA. This beautiful park sits on the lake's western shore. Meeting time will be 10:00 AM at the boat rental dock. For those like me who do not own a kayak, rentals are available, even tandems if you want to paddle with a buddy. Rates for 3 hours are $40 single / $50 Tandem. Stand-up paddle boards are also available if that's more your thing. The park charges a parking fee of $8 for Massachusetts residents and $30 for non-residents, so car-pooing, especially for out-of-staters, is recommended. There are also several other drop-in points around the lake where cheaper parking may be available, but for that, you're on your own, gents! Group meeting time will still be 10:00 AM at Regatta Point whether you drive or paddle to the park.

Afterwards, if folks are interested, we can gather for lunch at one of the many great spots along nearby Shrewsbury Street, Worcester's now-famous restaurant row. Perhaps the Woo Bar, a very inclusive and gay-friendly establishment with decent pub grub, but there are lots of other choices too!