Put In:  Lat/Long 29°38’48”/81°37’41”

             Kayak Launch at Palatka Riverfront Park

             Southwest corner of Memorial Bridge

Take Out:  Same as Put In

Distance:  5.5 miles

Planned Stops:  None

Difficulty: Intermediate

Estimated Time: 3 hours

Narrative Description: This paddle is entirely in the St. Johns River which requires special consideration of the weather. Because of the width of the river, choppy conditions are possible. Check the weather. It is not advisable to paddle this section of the river if the wind is over 12 knots. Also, paddlers should stay near the shoreline to avoid motorized boat traffic. DO NOT PADDLE NEAR THE CHANNEL. 

Begin your paddle along Palatka’s historic waterfront – Bartram Trail Site BT4, Babe Ruth’s summer home, and Wilson Cypress Mill are located along the shoreline. On the opposite side at Hart Point, the famous Hartline riverboats took tourists up the Ocklawaha River and back from 1860 until 1920. 

You will paddle along Wilson Cove to Devil’s Elbow where you will need to cross the channel – do so quickly. Corky Bell’s Seafood and Steak restaurant is located on the eastern shore and has a large dock. Use caution if you choose to take-out for lunch.  The return paddle is along the eastern shoreline.  You will cross the channel at the Memorial Bridge – USE CAUTION!