Johnson Preserve Braden River Paddle

At Big Waters Land Trust, we envision a future in which the human and natural worlds of Southwest Florida flourish together. To help bring this vision into reality, together with our conservation community we work every day to protect the land and water in Southwest Florida for the benefit of people and nature.Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, we help ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Our vital work strengthens Southwest Florida’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more atbigwaterslandtrust.org

Big Waters Land Trust

Explore the Braden River on a guided paddle adventure!

Johnson Preserve at Braden River

Join us for a guided paddle launching from <a href="https://bigwaterslandtrust.org/property/johnson-preserve-at-braden-river/" title="https://bigwaterslandtrust.org/property/johnson-preserve-at-braden-river/" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Johnson Preserve</a>. As we paddle downstream, your naturalist guide will interpret the plants and animals that call the river home and highlight ways you can help protect the Braden River watershed. We’ll stop for lunch at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/vRed3h9qsZX8bsEj9" title="https://maps.app.goo.gl/vRed3h9qsZX8bsEj9" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Linger Lodge Restaurant and Bar</a> (participants must purchase their own meal) before returning to the kayak launch. This is an intermediate paddle not suitable for beginners. The paddle is approximately 3.5 miles round trip.Single and tandem kayaks are available to borrow free of charge, with a suggested donation of $25 per person. Otherwise, participants must provide their own kayak, canoe, or SUP and paddle, life jacket, and whistle.Participants must wear a life jacket at all times while on the water.Program suitable for individuals ages 16 and older. This is an intermediate paddle that is not suitable for beginners. Children under 16 may attend with a parent or guardian in a tandem kayak or canoe.Participants should bring a water bottle and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Please wear shoes that strap or tie to your feet, no flip-flops. Your feet and lower legs will get wet and sandy. You may wish to bring a towel and dry clothes/shoes to change into after the paddle.Please note there are no restrooms or water fountains at the kayak launch area. We strongly suggest that you use the restroom before you arrive. Restrooms are available at Linger Lodge.This program is provided in partnership with the Manatee County Natural Resources Department.

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