The Mercer County Park Commission will host several kayak tours of Mercer Lake in West Windsor this summer.

These tours will explore the nooks and crannies of the 365-acre Mercer Lake that are accessible only via kayak. Led by County Naturalist Jenn Rogers, participants will have the opportunity to paddle along the lake’s edge for views of the native wildflowers in bloom, float alongside a beaver lodge, and maybe even see a bald eagle swoop down to grab a snack from the water. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, you are invited to pick up a paddle and survey the shoreline for sun bathing turtles or spot a great blue heron fishing.

There are five scheduled kayak tour dates: Fridays, July 1 and 29, August 12 and 26, and September 9. The tours are run out of the Mercer County Park Marina in West Windsor, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Tours are open to people 16 years of age and older. The Park Commission will provide the kayaks, paddles, binoculars, and life jackets, as well as instruction on the basics of kayaking prior to heading out on the lake. Participants should bring plenty of water and shoes that can get wet.

The tour rates are as follows: Mercer County residents, $25 per person; out-of-county residents, $30 per person. Pre-registration is required.

For more information and to register, visit www.mercercountyparks.org.