Plan a peaceful paddle with your crew. Here are five places where you can cast off in a canoe.

Honorable mention canoe paddles Field & Stream Aluminum Clad Canoe Paddle: available at Dick’s Sporting Goods Our take: These paddles are easy to use, with a sturdy design and lightweight feel.

Determining proper paddle length is hardly an exact science but there are guidelines. For a single-bladed canoe paddle, Carver advises the paddler to stand and measure from the ground to the nose.

Kayaking and paddle boarding are popular activities this summer. You can still find kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes at Amazon, REI, and more retailers.

Paddling a kayak one mile requires over 1,000 strokes with a kayak paddle. With an average speed of three miles per hour, that’s 3,000 strokes in 60 minutes.

Plan a peaceful paddle with your crew. Here are five places where you can cast off in a canoe.