What’s a stand up paddleboard (SUP)?
At first glance, a paddleboard looks like a surfboard: an oblong board with a rudder on one end. Despite their appearance, you won’t be “hanging ten” on these. SUPs are designed to be taken on inland lakes. While you generally sit (or kneel) in canoes and kayaks, a paddleboard is best steered standing up. An extra-long paddle helps you reach the water so you can navigate around the lake. You will feel like you are walking on water!
Active or peaceful, SUPs are a great choice for the outdoors
SUPs can be great fun with friends or individually. Some of my most tranquil memories involve taking a paddleboard out to the middle of the lake. After paddling around for some time, I’d just sit on the board. Without the sides of the kayak or canoe surrounding me, I felt as if I was simply sitting on top of the water – a great opportunity to meditate and absorb my beautiful surroundings.
Reserve a SUP today
Each branch of the Urban Ecology Center has two paddleboards that members can borrow. We also have tie-down kits specifically designed for these paddleboards so that you can transport them with ease. As with most of our other equipment, paddleboards can be borrowed for up to three days, so you can take them up north for a long weekend or enjoy the local inland lakes (paddleboards are not allowed on the moving waters of rivers). Remember, it’s always best to call ahead to make a reservation if you know you plan to borrow some equipment.
Whether you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or stand up paddleboarding, thanks for taking advantage of the Urban Ecology Center equipment lending membership benefit this summer!
We have equipment for all seasons! Click here to become a member and borrow paddleboards, canoes, skis and more.
