Explore Mentor Lagoons by Kayak or Canoe

Visitors to can better explore the park by renting canoes and kayaks starting this Saturday.

Mentor residents can rent a single kayak or canoe for $10 or a double for $16. Nonresidents pay $12 or $18, respectively. The city also provides life vests and paddles.

Kayaks and canoes can be rented between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. every day until September 4.

The city also offers classes for those who don't know how to use a kayak, canoe or sailboat. Instructor Jim Zofchak teaches introductory classes for all three vessels.

The two-hour kayaking and canoeing classes cost $13 for residents and $17 for nonresidents. The sailing classes cost $19 for Mentor denizens and $24 for outsiders.

The classes are available throughout the summer. A complete schedule is listed in the city's Paddling & Boating Adventures brochure, which is attached to this story as a PDF.

American Red Cross also offers a more in-depth, 12-hour program in which participants can earn a canoeing or kayaking certificate.

Additionally, children from ages 10 through 15 can participate in Boating Camp from June 27 to July 1. Kids will learn about sailing, kayaking and power boating while having fun.

The city also hosts kayak parties by reservation for groups at Mentor Lagoons.

"We provide everything, including the guide," said Jill Korsok, a program director for the city's parks and recreation department. "It's a two-hour guided trip through the lagoons."

Mentor's Parks Department also offers several themed "paddle" adventures, including moonlight paddles, special trips for dads and their children, women-only paddles and more. For dates and prices, check out the attached brochure.

"There's lots of opportunities if you want to learn how to paddle and explore the lagoons," Korsok said.

Anyone who wants to schedule a class, set up a kayak party or ask questions about Boating Camp can call the Parks and Recreation Department at 440-974-5720.