Kayaks and More at Southshore This Weekend
June 23, 2016
If you’re crazy for kayaks and canoes, that nice little sliver of nature in your backyard has boatloads of water for your paddling pleasure this weekend! And for landlubbers transitioning to lake-lubbers, there are lots of ways to get your feet wet, keep your “nose” dry and enjoy your neighborhood water wonderland.
First of all, the friendly experts at the Aurora Reservoir are always ready to assist. They’ll help you rent the perfect canoe or kayak depending on your experience, weight, and what you want to do. Canoes will hold up to three people and kayaks hold one to two.
The kayaks are the sit-on-top variety, which are easier to maneuver and less likely to capsize, and the canoes are the enclosed kind.
While fishing is forbidden from kayaks or canoes (you’ll have to rent a boat to drown worms), paddling around the marina will keep you plenty busy.
You’ll get oars or a paddle and life vests, and the clued-up crews at the lake will give you a mini-lesson on how to paddle, help you get in and out of the boat(s) and get you launched beyond the shallows.
Getting in and out takes some maneuvering but here’s a great how-to video for beginners, and another one for a primer on paddling.
In addition to your life vests, the Aurora Reservoir crew issues whistles before you launch. That shrill trill alerts the rangers who are always trolling the lake in case you need any help.
And finally if you’re out on the lake and a lightning storm moves in, get the heck off the water! But you knew that, right?
Rental Basics for Kayaks and Canoes
Canoe and kayak rentals are $10 per hour with a one-hour minimum. You must be at least 18 years old to rent and 13 years old to operate either one. For passengers younger than 18, a waiver signed by a parent or guardian is required. Boat rentals are based on availability and weather, so call ahead to confirm!
Aurora Reservoir, 5800 S. Powhaton Rd., Aurora, CO, Phone: 303-326-8425
Hours: 5:30 am to 9:00 pm
More Things to Do This Weekend
Tonight (June 23)
SOUNDS OF SOUTHLANDS: Margarita Brothers Band
The Margarita Brothers Band is playing your song this Thursday at Southlands mall. This sing-along band knows all your favorite beach, surf and summer tunes from the Beach Boys and Drifters, to Jimmy Buffet and Bob Marley. Let’s just say, you might want to practice The Swim and The Shag!
Southlands Mall Town Square, 6:00 pm
ADMISSION: Free
AURORA SUMMER CONCERT SERIES: Buckstein
Matt Buckstein, the 6’4” country rock powerhouse who made it to Hollywood twice on American Idol, is reconnecting to his roots. The Colorado native and his country rock band will be performing homegrown favorites while you dig into some tasty eats from Meat Truck Jones BBQ!
Utah Park 1800 S Peoria St, Aurora, 6:30-8:00 pm
ADMISSION: Free
More info: https://www.auroragov.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=2037792
Friday (June 24)
Don’t miss the potluck at the Lakehouse Friday night!
NOW WE’RE COOKING!
We’re cooking up some family fun at the Lakehouse at Southshore! We’ll supply the burgers and hot dogs; you bring your favorite sides, desserts and appetites. Try that yummy summer salad – and we’ll be your guinea pigs. We’ll have water on hand so you can chow down with the neighbors. RSVP online today!
The Lakehouse, 27151 East Lakeview Dr., Aurora 6:00-8:00 pm
RSVP: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a48afaa23abff2-southshore
Saturday (June 25)
AURORA ARTS FESTIVAL
Celebrate the arts! To commemorate the City of Aurora’s 125 Anniversary, the Aurora Arts Festival will feature an “Arts on the Block” theme. With food, art exhibits, live music, theater and pop-up performances including a Bollywood flash mob, the festival energy will be nuclear!
Fletcher Plaza, 9898 East Colfax Avenue, Aurora, noon to 8 pm
ADMISSION: Free
Make Southshore Your Home!
Does life at the lake sound like your style? Spend some time touring our beautiful model homes and deciding which one is right for you. Village Homes offers two collections and some “quick move-in” homes so you won’t miss any of the summer fun at Southshore!
Happy weekend!