What a pleasure to paddle the Upper Platte this time of year. The water level is up, so maneuvering around and through any obstacles is not difficult and there are no places for bottom scraping. Today was perfect for this trip – bright sunny skies and temperature in the low 70s. The spring flowers were beautiful along the riverbank and there were no mosquitoes bothering anyone. It was just a great day to be paddling.
Eight of us paddled the Upper Platte this afternoon (two used solo canoes). Lois and John led the group and were joined by Sue and Gerry W., Barb and Mike R., Diane T. and John W. We started at the Veteran’s Park Campground on US 31 between Interlochen and Honor, and took out at the east end of Platte Lake along Deadstream Road. Just before the lake, the men took the first fork to the left and the women went on to the second one. The men had a shorter paddle to the lake, but a much longer paddle across the lake in a head wind. The best route decision is strictly in the eye of the beholder.
While on the lake, near the take out, we saw a very large immature bald eagle. In addition, there was a beautiful swan and a noisy Canada goose. We also saw some steelhead in the river. Wonder what the eagle had in mind for its next meal?
Thanks to all for an enjoyable afternoon! Narrative by Mike Rodenberg
Photos by John