: I will be in Orlando on business July 11-14th and plan on holding
: over the 15th-17th for some paddling and maybe bird photogrpahy.
: Does anyone have any suggestions on locations to paddle, places
: to rent..,
: Thanks,
: Scott

Scott,

As far as locations, I recommend paddling the Econ River which is just northeast of Orlando. It's my favorite local river. I was there Saturday and the water was at a good level. This river runs through a state forest and for the first nine miles the only sign of humans is a wooden bridge at the midway point. The next twelve miles to the take out is equally wild with only one power line to distract you. I have seen many bald eagles and blue heron on the Econ. I have also paddled past raccoons, deer, a skunk, coyotes and many alligators. I usually do an out-n-back so I like to start at Snow Hill Rd (which is listed a point 2) on the map and paddle upstream so I don't have to work as hard on the return trip. I always base my trip on the length of time I can be out and the Econ can be all day if you have the time. If you have several hours (and are a reasonably strong paddler) then I recommend starting at point 2 and going downstream where there is a nice little restaurant at point 3. They have a pretty good burger but don't leave without having some of their gator tail bites. Yum! For me the only good gator is one on the plate! The only drawback is the return is upstream paddling with a full stomach. I'm usually lazy and looking for a nap. :-)

I don't know of any kayak rentals at the Econ but I'll ask around. I know there are some kayak tours in the area but I don't think they go far and their kayaks are too stable for beginners (read slow).

The Wekiva river, just north of Orlando, is another great paddle area but for me there are too many people. There are several canoe rental sites on that river and they may also have some kayaks but I'm not sure. Look up Kings Landing, Wekiva Marina and Wekiva Falls as some of the rental operations. This is a beautiful river and if you go far enough north you get away from the kids in canoes. I have seen a few manatees in the Wekiva and if you can find your way into Black Water Creek you will be in the roughest swamp setting you can imagine. I have never seen another boat in there in the past ten years of paddling but I have seen plenty of wildlife.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/guide/designated_paddle/Econlock_guide.pdf

Kyle T