Trip, North Branch Rancocas Creek, Moving Water

PCC first trip.  The initial miles are in the Pine Barrens throgh woods with little development.  Then the creek transitions to a shoreline with banks often extending 12 feet above water, woods with large trees, including beeches, oaks and ironwoods, some homes and 1 industrial site.  This trip is suitable for all skill levels.    The time on the water for this 9.7 mile paddle is approximately 4.5 hours.   There is 1 dam portage.  We will take a break and eat lunch along the way. The North Branch Rancocas Creek is approximately 55 minutes from the Philadelphia Canoe Club.

Meet at Rancocas Creek Canoe Trail Access Point, Rancocas Creek Drive, Penberton, NJ Coordinates: 39.96222156371778, -74.64117541416616.  We will drop off the boats and leave participants there to look over them while we shuttle our cars to Smithville.

Takeout: Smithville Canoe and Kayak Dam Portage , River Street, Eastampton Township, NJ.  Coordinates: 39.98549201558349, -74.75043355841365.  At the end of the trip, we will use the vehicles left at Smithville to take drivers back to Rancocas to get their vehicles and get everybody and their boats back together.

To Go On This Trip: Click "REGISTER" and complete the registration Information.  Participants must have completed an American Canoe Association (ACA) Waiver.  ACA members complete an online waiver when joining or renewing their membership.  Individuals who are not ACA members may either complete a 1 day event membership paper waiver and pay $10 cash the morning of the trip or join the ACA for $40 which will then provide insurance for trips for the next year.

Requirements: 

• Transportation of your boat and gear to the trip location.

• Wear a PFD while on the water and you should have a whistle.
• The water temperature is expected to be in the 50's.  Wear either, dry wear, wetsuit or quick drying clothes (no cotton) suitable for getting wet.  Dress in layers and have a set of dry clothes with you in the boat. There are many online sources of information on how to dress.  Click here for a link to one such online source from Paddle Boston. 
• Protect your toes, wear water or close-toed shoes.

Suggestions (for your comfort):

• Bring water to drink and lunch.
• Bring a dry bag or waterproof container for your personal belongings/extra clothes.
  Have a secure place to carry your car keys.
• Have a set of dry clothes in your car if you want to change for the ride home.

Trip Updates: Will be sent via email up to the day before the trip. 

Questions: Contact Tom Moiani at tbmoiani@gmail.com

Rain, inclement weather, or high or low water levels can cancel or reschedule the trip or change the trip location.

TRIP PARTICIPANTS RESPONSIBILITIES.pdf