Meet the Yak Yak Sisters! Free Weekly Kayaking Adventures on the Hennepin Canal | Along the Rock

Discover why the Yak Yak Sisters have become one of the Sauk Valley's most welcoming outdoor groups!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Karen Miles and Cyndi Muler to talk about the Yak Yak Sisters, a kayaking club that has spent more than 12 years bringing people together on the water. Learn how the group got started, what to expect on a Wednesday paddle, their favorite kayaking destinations across northwest Illinois, and why anyone—regardless of age or experience—is invited to join.

The conversation also covers the club's annual Blessing of the Vessels, its involvement with the Hennepin Hundred ultramarathon, unforgettable kayaking adventures, and how the friendships formed on the water continue year-round.

Whether you're an experienced paddler or have never been in a kayak, this episode may inspire you to grab a paddle and explore the outdoors.

🌊 Yak Yak Sisters
📍 Wednesdays at 4 p.m. (weather permitting)
📍 Hennepin Canal, Route 40 launch, Rock Falls, Illinois

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🎤 Highlights:

0:00 – Introduction

0:37 – What are the Yak Yak Sisters?

1:15 – Weekly paddle schedule & weather updates

2:20 – How the Yak Yak Sisters began 12 years ago

4:01 – Group size, community & post-COVID changes

5:40 – Helping beginners learn to kayak safely

7:22 – Favorite kayaking destinations beyond the Hennepin Canal

8:22 – Blessing of the Vessels tradition

9:03 – The Rock Falls Turtle Race story

11:14 – Favorite local kayaking locations

13:09 – Why the Hennepin Canal is so special

15:04 – Supporting runners during the Hennepin Hundred

18:23 – How to join the Yak Yak Sisters (it's free!)

20:12 – Special paddles, community events & inspiring members

21:20 – Meet Nancy: still kayaking into her 90s

23:21 – More than kayaking: year-round friendships & adventures

26:44 – Final invitation to paddle every Wednesday

27:02 – Closing remarks

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