Wilderness Paddler Finds Hidden Paradise Close to New City Home

Tom Trevor has traveled as far north as Baffin Island near the Arctic Circle and south to the Everglades and Gulf of Mexico seeking serene and exotic places to paddle and view wildlife. He will share stories of some of his travels near and far at the New City Library on April 23. He provided a preview.

“There are remote sites a mere 15 minutes from my New City home in which I can experience the same sense of serenity and adventure,” said Trevor.

He said his favorite trip is the headwaters of Lake Welch in Harriman Park, south of the Route 106 causeway.  Trevor said paddling upstream in the gentle current takes him deep into the surrounding forest where road noise is dampened.  Only the sound of birds and other animals are audible above the rustling leaves.

His most interesting encounter in that area was a redwing blackbird blocking the channel at eye level with a dramatic display of territoriality. Trevor noted the only challenge to these waters is a beaver dam that blocks access. It has grown from a few inches to more than two feet tall in the more than two decades he has paddled this lake.

While Lake Welch is his number one favorite, Trevor will share his other local paddling destination at the New City Library on Monday, April 23 at 7 p.m. The presentation, sponsored by the Friends of the New City Library, is free.  It includes a slide show, safety tips and information on local paddling waters suitable for families, seniors and others.  No reservations are required.