This is a really nice trip, both on the trail and on the creek. The heavily forested mountains and pristine creek represent the best of the Allegheny Mountains.
East Sandy Creek is a class II whitewater run that is only paddleable after a good rain or snow melt. Information about the creek can be found on the American Whitewater page:
http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/detail/id/1605/
Note that if you take out at the mouth of the creek that there is a 65 step staircase from the Allegheny River Trail up to the Sandy Creek Trail, and then a half mile carry across the river to the parking area at the Belmar trailhead. In other words, that might not be the way you want to take your big two person canoe...
The Sandy Creek Trail (http://www.avta-trails.org/sandy-creek-trail.html) is a beautiful paved trail along the creek. Starting at the Belmar trailhead allows you to cross the high bridge over the Allegheny River as you begin. There are several crossings over the creek, old railroad bridges that have been restored for trail use. There is also a .3 mile long tunnel on the trail. The tunnel is not lighted - use caution when passing through, especially in winter when ice forms inside.
The best whitewater is downstream of the Rockland Road bridge, so trips often start at one of the creek accesses near there. If you stash your bike in the woods beforehand, you can paddle down to the mouth, carry the boat up, stash it in the woods when you retrieve your bike, and then ride back to the put-in to get the vehicle. All that remains after that is the drive back to pick up the bike - easy!
Be aware that paddling can be a dangerous activity. Temperatures, water levels, water craft type, and paddler experience should all be considered before undertaking ANY paddle trip. If you doubt any of these factors, or any others, postpone your paddling trip until you are able to discuss your concerns with an expert paddler.

If you have any corrections or additional info about this trip, please email it to sgzohio@yahoo.com.