Editors note: Even though July is barely upon us, this year already feels like it should be over. With the economy still in a downturn, fluctuating gas prices and the April 27 storms wreaking havoc upon many, the usual respite of summer vacation is not an option for some families. 

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But it could be.

A recent trend known as the “staycation,” where travelers embark on day trips or travel less than 100 miles from home rather than hitting up exotic locales, has become a popular and more economically feasible option for the strapped-for-cash.

During the remainder of the summer, The News Courier will be running articles on local staycation spots open to the whole family.

Last weekend, intern Rebecca Croomes and her father Scott Croomes paddled the top stretch of the Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail.

On Saturday my dad and I trekked through Veto and just over the Tennessee state line; putting in kayaks on the Elk River to experience the scenic Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail.  The trail has five spots to put in and take out; the first located on Veto Road in Tennessee. We decided to paddle the first leg of the trail, from Veto Road to Alabama 127, a mere six river miles, because my dad was still recovering from minor knee surgery. The trail easily goes on for another 15 river miles or so to the fifth stop in Elk River Mills.

The water is flatter than flat, no rapids here, so I felt slightly overdressed in my full whitewater gear and whitewater boat which flips if so much as looked at wrong, but it’s the only vessel I own. Luckily for future paddlers, rental boats are available.

Storms from the past week

had graced us with a pleasant rain-fueled current and plenty of fallen trees to avoid, but the trip was not strenuous. An old railroad bridge, steep bluffs and an abundance of wildlife and wildlife-shaped stumps easily keep one from being bored. Fish were constantly bobbing around us trying to catch the dragonflies hitching a ride on our boats. 

Everyone we encountered on the water was friendly, attempting to catch bass and strike up a conversation at the same time, or waving a greeting from a fleet of jet skis. There’s even an occasional rope swing begging to be used.

When we reached our take out, my dad said he could see why I enjoyed kayaking, but preferred the challenge of whitewater.

Zigzagging through flat water in smaller boats is a serious upper-body workout — and can give you a mean sunburn — so be sure to rent a boat fit for you and your family and pack sunscreen.

The Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail was everything I imagined it would be: A lazy float through part of my home county that I had never seen before and will readily go back to soon. It’s a perfect staycation destination because of its accessibility, low cost — even cheaper if you already own a boat — and how easy it is to paddle. Whether you’re looking to spend the whole morning or the whole day on the water, the trail can accommodate.

For more information, call 256-232-5411, or visit the Athens Visitors Center on Beaty Street.