Rentals currently available; all CDC recommendations being followed for safety
BRUCETON MILLS -— For 10 years Padlz has been providing family and pet friendly flat water experiences on the Bruceton Mills Lake.
Owner Laura Drew-Dulaney said she opened Padlz Canoe & Kayak Rentals in 2010. She had scheduled an anniversary celebration for this summer but had to postpone it due to COVID-19.
Before starting her business in Bruceton Mills, Dulaney was a river guide in Ohiopyle, Pa.
“I’ve been paddling since high school,” she said.
Dulaney said when her daughter was younger she took her paddling on several occasions, but was disappointed.
“There were jet skis and motor boats. It was not a good experience,” she said.
This is not the case in Bruceton Mills. With no motorboats buzzing by, she said paddlers can enjoy the tranquility of the river and nature.
Dulaney said while paddling on the river visitors may see turtles sunbathing on a log or deer drinking from the riverbank, and hear birds singing in the trees.
“We have a bald eagle that lives in the area,” she said.
Dulaney said the lake is a perfect spot for beginners and seasoned paddlers. She said it also provides a good opportunity for paddlers to fish, swim or bird watch.
Dulaney said all her boats are sit-on-top style, meaning new paddlers don’t need to worry about tipping over and getting stuck in the boat, a common concern for beginners. In addition to single kayaks, Padlz offers two-person kayaks, canoes and stand up paddle boats. Life jackets are available in sizes infant to adult.
Along with individuals, Padlz also hosts large groups. This has included WVU sports teams, Boy and Girl Scout troops, and youth groups.
One of the large groups that paddle is Stepping Stones, a nonprofit organization that provides year-round recreation for children and adults with disabilities.
“Padlz provides everyone with an opportunity, regardless of paddling ability, to enjoy this scenic section of water,” Pete Daly, a Stepping Stones volunteer and regular patron at Padlz, said.
For those with pets, Dulaney said Padlz offers a pet friendly environment.
“I’ve had people bring dogs, cats, and one couple brought their ferret,” she said. “I have a seven-pound poodle, Freckles. She loves being with me. I teach at the high school and she even goes there with me.”
Dulaney said Padlz is fully compliant with CDC safety recommendations.
“We soak all of our life jackets in the sterilizing solution, spray paddles and boats with a sanitizing spray, have a contactless payment method and wear masks if closer than six feet to anyone,” Dulaney said.
She said she has recently seen an increase in business and believes this is largely due to an increasing desires to get outside and have fun while staying safe.
“Padlz is a fantastic option for anyone looking to try something new or who simply wants to enjoy the great outdoors,” Dulaney said.
Padlz is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Two-hour reservation times are 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., and weekdays by appointment.
All participants are required to sign a release form prior to using equipment. Forms will be on sterilized clipboards when checking in and are also available at www.padlz.com.
For more information call 304-777-3665.
TWEET@DominionPostWV
