Nature Trip: Canoeing

Class Canoe Trip 

Canoeing is something I have always enjoyed doing with my family for years, so when I found out our class was going on a night paddle, I was so excited. Granted, I usually kayak and find that much easier, but I was determined to give my canoe skills another try. 

When we all met up at the rec center, got our life jackets and saw how big the canoes were, I became nervous. My upper body strength is definitely that great and I realized that as Anna-Kathryn and I attempted to pick up the canoe and haul it down a hill. I was out of breath before we even hit the water. I knew it was going to be a long night. But once we got in the water and started to row, I felt better about our skills. We definitely were not at all experts and I was even a little skeptical about us being on the water for so long without wanting to give up. 

There were times when we got the hang of it and paddled straight down the Trinity, and many other times where we were hitting the sides and running into large rocks. My arms, shoulders and back muscles were already on fire five minutes into the trip. But I think being able to be out on the water with our classmates helped us learn from each other and encourage each other along the way. 

It was amazing to see the sunset behind us, and I couldn’t hold back from taking many beautiful pictures. I also think it was one of the best views I have seen in Fort Worth. Downtown, all lit up and bright, was a sight that cannot be replicated. After a very long day of classes, homework and tests, the canoe trip was a much-needed relaxation break. Sometimes it felt a little bit more stressful than it should have been because we were trying so hard, but when I let myself realize what was I experiencing, I couldn’t help but smile. 

People don’t get many of these opportunities, especially an opportunity where you get to bond with your professor and classmates. When I got home that night, I have never felt more physically exhausted. Yet, when I woke up the next morning, I wanted to do it all over again. If we get the chance to do another canoe trip with our class, I will absolutely be going. Thank you, Dr. Williams, for organizing such an incredible night paddle and letting your class experience the outdoors with you.