The adventure begins as kayakers head out on their tour of Cheesequake Creek.
Photos by Erin Maguire and Edison Wetlands Association.

By Erin Maguire, WildNewJersey.tv

As a Summer Naturalist at Cheesequake State Park, I help lead kayak tours along the park's water trail with Jim Fazack, Cheesequake’s full time naturalist and resource specialist.

The tours begin near the crabbing bridge with a short safety briefing and lesson on how to paddle by April, Jim’s wife. Everyone then is handed binoculars and is fitted into a kayak and life jacket. 

A glimpse of Cheesequake Creek.

The hot days of July seem a little cooler while you’re on the water as you paddle past the salt grasses of the creek. During low tide the banks of the marsh seem to dance as fiddler crabs move in and out of the mud. One may also catch a glimpse of a snowy egret, blue heron or even an osprey.

A group of osprey posing for their family portrait in one of the erected nests along the creek.

A snowy egret spotted in the distance.   

The group of kayakers after the tour on July 31.

The tours are free and run May-September. Call early because the season books up quickly. For more information about kayak tours call the Interpretive Center of Cheesequake State Park at: (732) 566-3208 and ask for Jim.

Hope to see you out on the water!