Get out there and drench yourself in the season’s crisp air, dazzling sunshine, pure blue skies and our gorgeous Mid- western autumn palette of rich oranges, yellows and reds.
Water Views
The Northwest Ohio River Runners (nworr.org) recommends some great au- tumn kayak/canoe outings.
Winona Anderson calls her Waterville- to-Fort Meigs Maumee River loop “one pretty fall season paddle to get away from it all with two sets of water rapids for a bit of fun.” Start and finish at Mary Jane Thur- ston State Park’s public launch (1466 St. Rte. 65, McClure, OH, parks.ohiodnr.gov/ maryjanethurston).
Mary Densic launches onto the Maumee from the Rossford Marina (300 Hannum Ave., Rossford rossfordohio.com/ marina) and says that for a relaxing pad- dle with wonderful views, “stay along the shoreline to enjoy the trees changing color and to see deer, waterfowl and turtles.”
The Huron River is a favorite of Dave Zobler who launches at the Dexter-Huron Metropark (6535 Huron River Dr., Ann Arbor MI, michigan.org/property/dexter-
huronmetropark), where the area resem- bles the beauty and isolation of northern Michigan without the drive. “The paddling is great,” says Dave, “just enough water movement and several gentle water level changes to give you a little rush along the way.”
Camping Out
There are oak trees awash in a flush of oranges and reds, a glowing camp- fire to snuggle up to and endless trails to hike and ride. Tent camping at the newly opened Oak Openings Metropark’s White Oak Campground is the perfect way to live and breathe the fall season. For reserva- tions and fees go to metroparkstoledo.com
Seasonal Cruise
Do yourself a favor and take a Fall Color Cruise on the Sandpiper. There isn’t a bet- ter time to take a trip down the Maumee River, with outstanding panoramic views of our Toledo skyline awash in autumn’s best.
Saturdays and Sundays October 12 & 13, 19 & 20 Departures at 1pm and 4pm. Visit sandpiperboat.com for more info, fees and to make reservations