The Finger Lakes offer paddlers a wide range of experiences – from short trips along the shore of Keuka Lake to expedition-length trips from Watkins Glen to the Atlantic Ocean, from still lake waters to the more exciting flows of the Susquehanna and Chemung Rivers. The Finger Lakes region is a paddler’s dream come true, thus, it’s not surprising that there are many avid paddlers living in the region. A few of these folks have dedicated their lives to sharing their love of the water and the joy of spending time in nature. We’ll meet two of those avid kayakers below; though they live and play on different lakes (whose names sound surprisingly similar), they are similar spirits who share a love for the outdoors and sharing that joy with others.
Transforming Lives through Watersports
Jennifer Wells has spent over two decades connecting people with the water, using the power of watersports to build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love for adventure. As the founder of Paddle-N-More and FLX Adventure Camp, located on Cayuga Lake, she has created a welcoming space for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and youth to develop skills, challenge themselves, and explore the beauty of the Finger Lakes.
Jennifer’s expertise lies in watersports education and outdoor leadership. As a USCG-licensed captain, American Canoe Association Instructor Trainer, and seasoned outdoor educator, she is committed to teaching, mentoring, and fostering a culture of learning. Whether guiding a first-time paddler, training future instructors, or mentoring young professionals, she believes in creating experiences that are both physically and mentally rewarding.
Paddle-N-More is a designated American Canoe Association Pro School, recognized for its commitment to high-quality paddlesports education. The business has become a leading destination for kayaking, canoeing, and standup paddleboarding, offering lessons, rentals, and guided trips that prioritize skill development and water safety. Jennifer’s FLX Adventure Camp expands beyond paddlesports, introducing windsurfing and sailing to youth participants, encouraging them to explore, take on new challenges, and build lifelong skills.
The Finger Lakes are more than just a place of work for Jennifer—they are home. She grew up in the region, spending summers canoeing on Cayuga Lake and exploring the surrounding waterways, developing a deep appreciation for the Finger Lakes and the adventures they offer. Each lake has its own unique character, and Jennifer loves helping others discover the beauty, history, and opportunities for exploration that these waters provide. “For me, the Finger Lakes are more than just a destination—they shaped who I am,” she says. “I want others to experience the same sense of freedom, adventure, and connection that I felt growing up paddling on these waters.”
Beyond paddlesports, Jennifer’s commitment to education and leadership development extends into the classroom, where she has trained countless students in outdoor recreation and leadership. At FLX Adventure Camp, she finds joy in seeing her staff grow into skilled instructors and mentors.
Her vision for Paddle-N-More and FLX Adventure Camp is about more than recreation—it’s about building a community where people can challenge themselves, develop resilience, and discover the joy of watersports. Through her leadership, Jennifer has helped countless individuals find confidence, independence, and a lifelong connection to the water, proving that the best adventures are those that transform us from within.
Leading with Passion, Education, and Conservation at Saunders Finger Lakes Museum
When it comes to connecting people with nature, few do it with as much enthusiasm and dedication as Debbie Lyon, Program Director at the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum (SFLM) located on Keuka Lake. With a background that spans from serving as a Captain in the United States Air Force, then working as a Civil Engineer, with a mid-life career pivot into the realm of natural resources conservation, Debbie now embraces a career centered on environmental education. Her leadership at the Museum reflects her deep commitment to fostering a love for the outdoors, making nature accessible to all, and preserving the Finger Lakes’ unique ecosystems for future generations.
Growing up surrounded by forests and lakes, Matt’s childhood was a mix of adventure and discovery. His days were spent “trailblazing” with his brothers, building forts, climbing waterfalls, and catching crawfish by campfires. His father, a sheriff and skilled woodsman, taught him the ways of nature, from hunting and fishing to reading animal tracks. “I was a woodsman from an early age,” Matt recalls. Whether sitting on the dock with his Snoopy fishing pole or rescuing his brothers from icy mishaps, Matt’s formative years fostered a deep connection to the natural world that still defines him today.
One of the SFLM’s most impactful initiatives has been improving accessibility at the Museum. Thanks to a new handicap-accessible dock, individuals with mobility challenges can now safely and comfortably participate in paddling experiences. This innovative design, featuring a transfer seat that allows users to lower themselves into a boat, ensures that more people can enjoy the beauty of Keuka Lake.
Debbie’s approach goes beyond infrastructure—she fosters an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of ability, feels welcomed and encouraged to explore. “Our goal is to make nature accessible to everyone,” she says. This philosophy extends to “The NEST” (Nature Escape Sensory Trail), a sensory trail designed for neurodivergent individuals. Inspired by the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth Park, the “NEST” features interactive stations, sound exploration areas, and quiet spaces for relaxation. While designed for specific needs, it provides a peaceful escape for all visitors.
Beyond education and accessibility, Debbie is deeply involved in conservation. Due in part to her educational background, the museum has been able to take on streambank restoration projects to combat erosion along Sugar Creek and Keuka Lake. In partnership with the Cornell Cooperative Extension, the DEC, and other organizations, the team was able to secure funding to restore 200 feet of shoreline, with plans for further expansion. Combining her knowledge from her engineering and environmental studies, Debbie understands and emphasizes the importance of natural vegetation in maintaining ecological balance and preventing further erosion.
Visitors on museum-led paddling excursions can witness these conservation efforts firsthand. Debbie uses these outings as teachable moments, pointing out areas where erosion threatens the shoreline and explaining how proper land management can mitigate damage.
Education is at the heart of Debbie’s mission. Whether leading a paddling tour or teaching about the wetlands’ role in flood control, she brings a wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm. She understands that connecting people—especially children—with nature is key to fostering lifelong environmental stewardship. “If people love a place, they will want to protect it,” she says.
By guiding participants through the wetlands, introducing them to local wildlife like the spiny softshell turtle, and teaching paddling techniques, Debbie ensures that every experience is both informative and fun. Her ability to blend adventure with education makes her an inspiring leader in the field of environmental engagement.
Through her work at the Saunders Finger Lakes Museum, Debbie Lyon is making an indelible impact on the region. She champions accessibility, conservation, and education, ensuring that the beauty of the Finger Lakes is preserved and appreciated by all. Whether restoring shorelines, advocating for inclusive outdoor experiences, or introducing a child to their first kayak paddle, she embodies the spirit of environmental stewardship.
As Debbie says, “Paddling offers a deeper connection to nature—you move at a slow, peaceful pace, allowing you to observe wildlife, feel the rhythm of the water, and truly appreciate your surroundings.” It’s this philosophy that drives her work and inspires everyone who has the privilege of learning from her.
To uncover even more, visit our FLX Outdoor Experience page and discover the beauty of the Finger Lakes region through exciting adventures and hidden treasures. We’re thrilled to showcase the abundant outdoor offerings and sustainability initiatives that make this area so special.
