The Blanchard River Water Trail is 37.6 miles. It begins at Blanchard River Nature Preserve and ends at Blanchard Landing. There are numerous river access sites along the way, including Jackson Landing, Liberty Landing, and Blanchard Landing.

Jackson Landing

16894 Township Road 173, Findlay

Jackson Landing is an undeveloped natural area along the Blanchard River Water Trail. It serves as a landing option or rest area for canoeists and kayakers paddling from Blanchard River Nature Preserve. It may also serve as an alternative starting point. Riverbend Recreation Area is located approximately 4 miles downstream from Jackson Landing.

Features

  • Undeveloped river access site
  • Parking lot
  • Portable Restroom Facility

Liberty Landing

Township Road 89, west of County Road 140, Findlay

Liberty Landing marks the beginning of a popular 9.3-mile float trip on the Blanchard River Water Trail. The trip from Liberty Landing to Blanchard Landing is scenic with frequent bends, narrow sections, and exciting riffles with no known hazards. Wildlife sightings are common. Paddlers will travel along the border of Indian Green – Worden Family Conservation Area and the south unit of Litzenberg Memorial Woods. Without stops and with strong and steady paddling, the trip takes approximately 3 hours.

Features

  • Picnicking areas
  • Developed river access site
  • Parking lot
  • Portable Restroom Facility

Blanchard Landing

State Route 235, south of U.S. Route 224 West, Findlay

Blanchard Landing marks the end of the 37.6-mile Blanchard River Water Trail. It also serves as a rest area or starting point for canoeists and kayakers paddling downstream to Gilboa or Ottawa in Putnam County. A popular two-day trip on the entire Blanchard River Water Trail in Hancock County – affectionately known as the Blanchard River Challenge – begins at Blanchard River Nature Preserve, involves tent camping at Riverbend Recreation Area, and ends a Blanchard Landing. Daily canoe and kayak rentals are available.

Features

  • Picnicking areas
  • Developed river access site
  • Parking lot
  • Portable Restroom Facility