Magazine: Northwest Ohio River Runners

Northwest Ohio River Runners, based on the Ottawa River in Point Place, is a family-style canoe, kayak, and rowing-shell organization established to promote hand-powered water sports. Visit them at nworr.org. CLICK ON ANY IMAGE TO VIEW FULL PHOTO, START SLIDE SHOW.

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Outdoor recreation has seen a boom in paddlesports in recent years. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo The Northwest Ohio River Runners holds a recent outing on the Ottawa River in Toledo. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo John Rudolph carries his boat during a Northwest Ohio River Runners outing from Howard Pinckley Landing. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Canoes are durable and lightweight and easier to carry than equipment for some other outdoor recreation sports. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Curtis Osmun zips up his life vest. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Paddlers are advised to carry a "dry bag" securely fastened to the boat with identification, maps, first aid kit, cell ... THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo The Ohio Division of Watercraft estimates one in five boats registered in the state is a canoe or kayak. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Newer paddlecraft are made out of plastic and contrast starkly to the heavier, older crafts of gray aluminum. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo A paddler airs out her toes during a Northwest Ohio River Runners outing on the Ottawa River. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Dave Zobler, top, Andrea Zimmerman, center, and her daughter Zoe Zimmerman, 3, paddle a canoe on the Ottawa River. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Ray and Diane Radabaugh launch from the Howard Pinckley Landing in Riviera Park. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Northwest Ohio River Runners emphasizes family involvement. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo A hat with a wide brim is suggested to offer sun protection in hot weather and retain heat in cooler weather. THE BLADE/LORI KING

Enlarge | Buy This Photo Paddlers greet each other during a Northwest Ohio River Runners outing. THE BLADE/LORI KING