The James River Association is providing boat and paddle trips for river enthusiasts.
The James River Association (JRA) will launch its seasonal boat and paddle programs starting in May 2023. These guided river trips are open to the public and offer unique experiences for participants to engage with the river through birdwatching tours, photography excursions, historical batteau rides, and sturgeon-watching trips—all while learning about the wildlife, history, and natural resources of the river and its tributaries. It’s a chance for local recreationists, as well as regional travelers, to take a break on the James and enjoy the natural beauty and solace it provides. Trips will take place in each of JRA’s three regions which include Richmond, Williamsburg, and Lynchburg.
Connect with the James
In the Williamsburg region, JRA’s Connect with the James program will offer kayaking tours of Powhatan Creek in partnership with James City County, highlighting river birds and other local flora and fauna. In the Richmond region, JRA’s Connect with the James program will offer pontoon boat sunset cruises, wildlife outings highlighting the ever-popular Atlantic sturgeon, and art-themed adventures in partnership with Artspace in which participants can either sketch or photograph the river with the guidance of a seasoned teacher.
“Every year, more than 2.7 million Virginians rely on the James River for drinking water, but only a small handful of them have regular access to the river. Our goal with the Connect with James program is to change that!” said Mike Lyden, JRA’s Senior Operations Manager. “Whether taking a guided trip focused on history and wildlife or participating in a trash cleanup along the river’s banks, the James has a way to engage everyone. Join us for a Connect with the James trip and experience how the river not only provides water for drinking but water for pure enjoyment.”
James River Adventures
In the Lynchburg region, JRA’s James River Adventures, located at Riveredge Park across the river from downtown Lynchburg, will provide guided river paddles in addition to offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to ride back in time on a historic batteau boat along one of the James’ most beautiful and fascinating stretches of water.
“We can’t wait to get people back on the James for river season,” said Rob Campbell, JRA’s Upper James Senior Regional Manager. “I’m especially excited to provide river lovers with the opportunity to take a trip on our historic batteau and give them a chance to enjoy the river in a whole new way.”
Pre-registration is required for all programs. JRA provides canoes, kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices to participants. All fees associated with Connect with the James and James River Adventures are donations to JRA to help protect and connect people with the James, and to create a healthy river for thriving communities.
For more information and to book a trip, visit https://thejamesriver.org/whats-happening/connect-with-the-james/.
About the James River Association
The James River Association is a member-supported nonprofit organization founded in 1976 to serve as a guardian and voice for the James River. Throughout the James River’s 10,000 square mile watershed, the James River Association works toward its vision of a fully healthy James River supporting thriving communities. The James River Association believes that “when you change the James, the James changes you”. With offices in Lynchburg, Richmond, Williamsburg, and Scottsville, the James River Association is committed to protecting the James River and connecting people to it. For more information visit www.thejamesriver.org.
