• Where: 654 Layton Road, Layton, near Perryopolis in Fayette County.

• Why: A no-stress way to kayak, canoe or raft along the calm stretch of the Youghiogheny River, a k a "the bottom Yough." You pick the craft and they haul you and the craft to the launch spot upstream.

• How far: 33 miles from Downtown, about 45 minutes.

• How much: Weekend rate is $20.50 per person for the 8-mile trip from Dawson to Layton, plus gas. The 14-mile trip from Connellsville is $27.50. For reservations and other info, call 1-800-42-RIVER or check www.hazelbakerscanoes.com.

• What it's like: This is a smooth part of the river with a few stretches of mildly choppy water, easy to navigate. It's leafy and lovely, with good fishing, swimming and wildlife. The short trip takes about 2 hours if you paddle, 4 if you drift. It's peaceful when the trains aren't running and the other paddlers aren't too rowdy.

• Fun factor: 4 on a crowded weekend, 5 on a weekday.

-- Sally Kalson