Alameda, Grand Street ramp to MLK Shoreline Park, rated L1 EASY

Your 2024 Liability Waiver is required to be moved to the “going” list.
Meetup message Ken N for waiver forms.

Meetup: 9:15 AM, on the water 10:00 sharp to ride the tide.
Address: Grand Street Boat Launch, 2098 Grand Street · Alameda

This paddle will launch from Grand Street Boat Ramp (Alameda), take short side trip for a view of SF skyline, then proceed to MLK Park. The lunch stop will be at MLK Regional Shoreline Park near the Oakland Airport. This paddle begins in an urban/industrial area and then opens into the Arrowhead Marsh bird preserve, which is a stopover on the Pacific Flyway and is part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve

Distance is around 8 miles round trip with the lunch break in the middle. This should be an easy paddle suitable for those with good basic skills. Launching and landing will be from docks/boat ramp. Canoes and recreational kayaks are appropriate.

Wind is frequent in this area, check the forecast. If the wind is greater than 15 mph, we will stay in the Estuary and paddle the Alameda shoreline and Coast Guard Island to the High Street Bridge.

Launch and parking are free. Restrooms are available in both areas. There is a picnic area at MLK Park.

Rain or bad weather may cancel this trip. Check your email prior to the paddle, for updated information and changes.

PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.

This trip is sponsored by MARIN CANOE AND KAYAK CLUB

Trip Rating L1 explained
These trips are for everyone, even experienced senior paddlers who prefer flat water with light breeze within swimming distance to shore, no current and waves less than 4 inches. Total distance 5 to 7 miles with a short break for snacks or lunch. Paddlers should be able to enter and exit their boat unassisted from shore or boat dock and have a Forward and Reverse stroke.

Trips are in calm, protected areas, such as lakes, lazy rivers, sloughs, or paddling near the beach. If the wind begins to blow, you plan to head for shore. You do not wish to do deepwater rescues, so your safety depends on staying within easy swimming distance of easily accessible shorelines.