Schuylkill Sojourn Goes Virtual

For the first time ever, the annual Schuylkill Sojourn was held virtually!

Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area

Pottstown, PA (September 2, 2020) –

Even the COVID-19 pandemic could not stop kayakers in the Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area from gathering together for the annual Schuylkill River Sojourn this August. The difference this year was that the usual weeklong paddling adventure had to take place online, and was the first ever Virtual Sojourn. 80-90 virtual participants were joined by the heritage area’s kayaking guide Matt Stan, from the kayak outfitter, Bad Adventures, for two nights of virtual sojourning. As an alternative to the virtual sojourn, a few small groups completed single-day, in-person kayaking trips.

Elaine Schaefer, the director of Schuylkill River Greenways, holds up a check while another staff member of the heritage area holds up one of the River Trail signs virtual sojourners could win.

Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area

Over the course of two nights, the sojourners’ guide, Matt Stan, provided information on the river’s history and natural elements, and hosted a Schuylkill River Greenways trivia contest. The contest offered themed prizes for winning trivia answers as well as a selfie photo contest. Other activities included a silent auction, a presentation of the short film "Schuylkill Soaring," and messages from heritage area staff and locals recorded along the river.

Some Sojourn participants were able to enjoy single day kayak trips on the river.

Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area

While the virtual sojourn was not the same as being out on the water, it served to remind participants of the love they all share for the Schuylkill River as the superb natural resource it is. The event and camraderie underscored everyone’s thirst for getting out on the river next year, for a safe and COVID-19 free paddle.

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