Remember: It is your responsibility to have the necessary skills, knowledge, and equipment for a safe and environmentally sensitive visit. The Paddling Trails map provides a guide to local wildlife, important trail and navigation information, additional safety and paddling tips, and a list of recommended supplies for your trip. We strongly suggest that you purchase a map, and always keep in mind that Blackwater is a wildlife refuge. Thank you!

Refuge Rules:

Return to Paddling page.

• Disembark from your canoe/kayak only at designated access points.



• All islands are closed to access.



• Pets are not permitted on the refuge.



• The Purple Trail is closed to paddlers October 1 through
  March 31 each year. The closure is critical to avoid
  interfering with migratory waterfowl on the refuge.

Important Safety Information:

• Please read important safety information and refuge rules prior to paddling the trails.



• If you are a novice paddler unfamiliar with this area, consider hiring a local guide for your first trip.



• A trail map is essential for paddling the Purple Trail. The Blackwater Paddling Trails map can be purchased at the Blackwater Refuge Visitor Center or at our online store.



• During fall and winter, waterfowl hunters are active on private property near the Green Trail. Check at the refuge Visitor Center for exact dates.



• Plan for safety. Leave your paddling route and return time with a relative or friend.



• Cell phone service is not reliable on the Blackwater Trails and should not be counted on for rescues.



• In an emergency, stay with your canoe/kayak. The marsh cannot be crossed on foot.



• Check weather conditions at the refuge Visitor Center before launching your canoe/kayak.



• Strong winds can swamp or capsize your canoe/kayak. Northwest winds can make the water shallow and the trip difficult.



• Always wear a life jacket.



• Bring a spare paddle or pole and rain gear.



• Stay in your canoe/kayak if it becomes stuck. Try shifting your weight carefully as you push off with your paddle or pole.



• Biting insects can be numerous during the warmer months.
  
  
• There are no restroom facilities along the Purple, Orange, and Green Trails.

Wildlife Viewing Ethics:

• You will not encounter any venomous snakes on your paddling trip. If you see a snake near your canoe/kayak, do not disturb it or it may become aggressive.



• Do not call or whistle to rouse birds or animals - you may disrupt important feeding or nesting activity.



• Use binoculars for closer views.



• If birds fly away or other animals flee as your canoe/kayak approaches, move away so you don't disturb them.



• Do not touch or feed birds or wild animals.

"Leave No Trace" Ethics:

• Carry out your trash and any trash you see.



• Carry a covered container as a latrine. Empty it only at a restroom.



• Don't pick or remove any flowers or plant materials.



• Respect anglers and waterfowl hunters - pass around their lines and decoys quietly and quickly.



• Keep noise to a minimum.

Thank you for helping us keep Blackwater safe for wildlife!