Johann McKee always enjoyed outdoor adventures, but never spent much time in a kayak – until recently! Her three sons, Mike (who lives in Arizona), Eric (State College), and Steve (Lancaster), plan a get-together at least once a year, and this year they decided to plan a trip to the 1.1 million-acre Pine Barrens of New Jersey. Johann’s grandchildren, Zac and Gracey, who attend Penn State University, also joined. At 88 years of age, Johann, a Villa Court resident, probably could have proposed some reasons to opt out of such a big adventure – but instead, she embraced it!
The Pine Barrens and the “Pine Land Adventures” kayak outfitters are only about 2 hours and 15 minutes driving distance from Lancaster; however, when journeying down the Batsto River, you feel like you are a world away. “The forests are very dense,” Johann recalled. “The river was narrow, and you had to dodge logs and low-hanging branches. Some places looked like a dead-end and you had to forge your way through! The hardest part of the journey was at the very end where the small river opened up into a marshy lake where cross winds and underwater grasses made the journey more strenuous.” However, Johann persevered, and she and her family finished the six-mile trip in just about five hours.
Johann was proud of herself the next day when the younger kayakers were complaining about sore muscles; she felt great – a feat which she attributes to her delicious electrolyte drinks. She also enjoyed spotting turtles and the beautiful forests and blooming water lilies. Johann’s advice to those considering a big adventure: read about where you are going! She suggests that anyone curious about this unique area of our country read “The History of the Pine Barrens” by John McPhee. There is a rich and unique saga of this land which is unknown to many – including abandoned towns and industrial areas that are now reclaimed by the forests.
Congratulations, Johann, on your accomplishment! You are an inspiration!