WEST PITTSTON — Wyoming Valley Riverfest may be more of a Willkes-Barre event, but that doesn’t mean Greater Pittston doesn’t get in on the fun.

Dupont resident Jan Lokuta will once again kick off off Riverfest when he hosts his kayak tour along the Susquehanna River on June 22.

“This is also a perfect chance for those who have never been on the river to hone their paddling skills in the company of accomplished guides, as well as view the abundant wildlife along the Susquehanna,” Lokuta said.

Participants are to meet at 8 a.m. at the corner of Montgomery and Susquehanna avenues in West Pittston where everyone will be shuttled to Harding to visit the site of the Harding Massacre.

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After that, everyone will go to Apple Tree boat launch from where the kayaking will begin in Harding. The trip will conclude in West Pittston.

In addition to viewing the site of the Harding Massacre, participants will see General John Sullivan’s line of march out of the Wyoming Valley, remnants of the North Branch Canal, and an archaeological digging site.

Lokuta said he intends to be on the water by 9 a.m. and the trip should last about three to four hours.

“It’s going to be very leisurely,” he said. “It’s leisurely to give people the opportunity to spend some time inspecting, or observing these sites, and then pay a visit to the archaeological dig site.”

While the trip is for history buffs, it is also a way for those interested in wildlife to see animals along the way.

“If anybody is interested in wildlife, please come along and take the trip,” Lokuta said. “Last year we saw bald eagles, red tail hawks, great blue herons, several species of duck and, if we’re lucky, we’ll see falcons.”

Those wanting to partake in the tour may contact Susquehanna Kayak and Canoe Rentals at 570-388-6107 or contact@kayaktheriver.com.

Participants must register by Thursday, June 21.

Paddlers go underneath the Coxton Bridge during a previous Susquehanna River kayak tour. This year’s tour will be Friday, June 22.
https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/web1_River-Tour.jpeg.optimal.jpegPaddlers go underneath the Coxton Bridge during a previous Susquehanna River kayak tour. This year’s tour will be Friday, June 22. Submitted photo
Event will coincide with Wilkes-Barre’s Riverfest

By Jimmy Fisher

jfisher@timesleader.com

Reach Jimmy Fisher at 570-704-3972 or on Twitter @SD_JimmyFisher