Paddling a canoe on tranquil waters, surrounded by majestic pine-covered mountains and wildlife such as loons, eagles, and dragonflies, provides a picture-perfect slice of life where leisure and peace coalesce. With each forward stroke of the paddle, one can glide through still water with general ease to enjoy new scenery and an abundance of nature and adventure. Featuring no complicated motors or engines yet possessing a sleek shape to move through water using muscle power, canoes tie us to the simpler days of the past.
The Carib Indian word for canoe, kenu, gave way to its modern name. Canoes are not a novel invention. Rather, the oldest known Pesse Canoe dates from around 8,000 years BCE. And canoes have a rich and interesting history. These early “boats” were historically used in many parts of the world, including both North and Central America, the Caribbean, and many parts of South America. They were considered valuable tools of natives and early settlers who used them for transportation, fishing, hunting, exploration, and trade. Outdoor Revival shares, “…the history of the canoe is as expansive as global culture itself.”
The shape of a canoe is an important feature as it is intended to make it float, as well as provide stability. Regarding design, buoyancy and density come into play as the weight of the water displaced by the canoe must be equal to the weight of the canoe. Throughout history, canoes have been created with different materials. Initially, they were large and thick and dugout from hollow trees. Many today are made of aluminum, but they are also popularly made of wood or fiberglass. They are generally lightweight, albeit generally heavier than a kayak, and are propelled using single or double paddles. In some cases, an outdoor electric or gas-powered motor may be added.
Many people who use canoes enjoy them for pleasure and for sport and it’s a fun physical activity. Canoeing is considered more difficult than kayaking due to the coordination and nuances of the paddling strokes. Also, due to the weight of the canoe, it may require more physical exertion to move it through water as compared to kayaking. While it’s quite possible to tip a canoe if you are inexperienced, staying low and balanced while getting in and out can help avoid problems. Should a canoe tip, it’s important to remain calm and stay with the canoe. Often it can be easily turned upright so that the occupants can get back in and gear gathered. However, most canoes are reliable and are not prone to tipping on their own.
Canoeing is an enriching experience that provides a unique perspective of nature and the world around us. It is also an excellent form of exercise. For those who canoe in groups, fun memories can be created together, and new territories explored. Paddling together is also a pleasurable water activity for the family. So, pack a picnic lunch, grab a paddle, get out on the lake, and get ready to enjoy the ride!
