The Yak Yak Sisters meet every Wednesday at 4 p.m. during the summer at the Hennepin Canal in Rock Falls near the Route 40 launch. Weather permitting, members spend about two hours paddling the canal while enjoying wildlife, peaceful scenery, and good conversation. If poor weather is expected, updates are posted on the Yak Yak Sisters Facebook page so members can plan accordingly.
The club was founded more than a decade ago after Karen Miles purchased her first kayaks and discovered a passion for paddling with friends. Wanting to create a consistent opportunity for others to enjoy the sport together, she helped establish the Yak Yak Sisters, and the weekly paddles have continued for 12 years.
Although the name suggests otherwise, the group welcomes everyone. Men regularly join the weekly outings, and newcomers are encouraged to participate regardless of their kayaking experience. There are no membership fees, no registration requirements, and no pressure to keep up with experienced paddlers.
Safety is a priority for every outing. Members use a buddy system, make sure no one is left behind, and happily teach beginners everything from paddling techniques to basic water safety. Those who don’t own a kayak can often borrow equipment from members or rent one locally, making it easy to try the sport before investing in their own gear.
While the Hennepin Canal serves as the club’s home base, members also organize trips throughout the region. Favorite destinations include the Rock River, Cattail Slough near Fulton, and scenic stretches of the Upper Iowa River. Some adventures even include riverside picnics and overnight camping trips.
The Yak Yak Sisters have become known for celebrating the outdoors as much as the kayaking itself. Eagles, herons, turtles, and other wildlife frequently make appearances during paddles, providing members with memorable experiences close to home.
One of the group’s annual traditions is the Blessing of the Vessels, which marks the beginning of each kayaking season. Participants receive handcrafted keepsakes to attach to their kayaks as a reminder of another year spent safely enjoying the water.
The club is also a familiar sight during the annual Hennepin Hundred ultramarathon. Members launch their kayaks early in the morning to cheer on runners attempting distances of up to 100 miles along the canal. Armed with signs, cowbells, and plenty of enthusiasm, the Yak Yak Sisters have become a favorite source of encouragement for participants traveling from across the country.
Community involvement extends beyond kayaking. Over the years, the group has introduced Girl Scouts and other first-time paddlers to the sport, partnered with local organizations, and even participated in community events such as Rock Falls’ turtle race.
The friendships formed through the Yak Yak Sisters often continue long after the paddles end. Members regularly gather for biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and other outdoor adventures, creating a close-knit community that enjoys staying active together throughout the year.
The episode also highlights one of the group’s most inspiring members, who recently retired from kayaking in her 90s after years of joining the weekly outings. Her enthusiasm and adventurous spirit continue to inspire paddlers of every generation.
Anyone interested in becoming a Yak Yak Sister simply needs to show up for a Wednesday paddle. Whether someone has years of experience or has never stepped into a kayak before, the group is ready to provide guidance, encouragement, and a welcoming place to enjoy the waterways of the Sauk Valley.
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One Response
Thanks for having Cyndi and I on. We enjoyed talking about the Yak Yak Sisters!