In contrast to the weatherman's forecast for mostly sunny, the morning dawned foggy with a few sprinkles and not surprisingly, we were the only ones at the launch site. Our group of seven paddlers (Lois, Mark, Kati, Tracie, Jeff, Gerald and Susan) got a bit of a late start setting out at 10:45. The river was warm and flowing at a moderate rate. The upper section had quite a few obstacles, but mostly with a clear way through. As we proceeded downstream, one obstruction required "lumber-jacking" and three (four?) others necessitated portaging. With our small group and team-work, the short portages were negotiated fairly smoothly. Our lunch stop location prompted some complaining about muck at the take-out point and half the group lunched on the opposite bank, amidst nettles. After lunch, the sun came out and the temperature rose into the 70's making for perfect paddling conditions. Equally enjoyable was the fact that we were the only ones on the river. The lower stretch was obstruction-free providing for a very relaxing finish and take-out at around 3:45. What a great way to spend the 4th!
Report by Mark O'Reilly; photos by Kati