Upper Manistee
Published on 8/14/2011
Karen, Fred and Judy Swartz, Steve Somers, Tracie Lord, Marv and Marlene Puska, and Bob Fitch gathered on a cloudy, cool morning at Burger King in Kalkaska. Karen explained the shuttle to everyone which involved boats being moved to other cars and Marlene actually riding in a different car. Everyone was confused by Karen's explanation of what was going to happen but they trusted her and followed her directions. After boats were moved and people were in the appointed cars, everyone headed off for the put in...some via the takeout to drop off cars. Everyone arrived at the put in without incident although it should be noted that if you follow the GPS coordinates on the website, it will direct you to turn on Deward Rd off of CR38 which will take you to the wrong side of the river (we knew better and followed the written directions to turn on Manistee River Road so no one got lost!).
Fred found a plastic fork at the put in and said "If you come to a fork in the river, take it!"
Everyone got into their boats and headed down the river, shedding layers of clothing as the day warmed up. Fred and Bob were able to use their saws to clear a few new downed trees and Judy reported that given the choice, she felt Fred would prefer to saw his way down a river as opposed to paddling! The rest of the group appreciated Fred and Bob's sawing abilities as they cleared the way for us to paddle through!
When we came to the spot where another stream joins the Manistee and greatly increases the flow, Fred decided that his sawing opportunities were likely at an end for the day and he took up the sweep position in order to pick up trash, of which he found very little.
By the time we reached the lunch spot at Deward, the sun was out and it was a beautiful day! We enjoyed a leisurely lunch and paddled on for another two hours to the take out. Steve was disappointed that, although the slide was still there and calling his name, it was really too chilly for a swim break.
It was another great day on the river! Written by Karen