After bailing the day before on the Sturgeon clean up due to rain, Jackie & Tracie were determined to make this trip work! So after waking to another downpour, the laptop was booted up & a search of the weather sites with radar ensued. With most sites predicting a let up of rain with clearing skies by 1pm, a rush of phone calls were made to registrants (Bob F, Terry M, Glenn B, Linda F, Dee C) to let them know the trip would be delayed. A new afternoon meeting time was conveyed to all concerned except one soul who didn't update the cell number in his bio but was eventually reached via Facebook. Yay technology!
It was still dumping buckets on the drive over, but the fearless (on this day) trip hosts were relentless in their optimism that they would defeat the weather gods with great planning and some luck. Only one person got lost, but soon found their way with a little coaching from Tracie. Boats & gear were unloaded with skill, then the caravan of drivers took off for the take out with Bob F the designated shuttle bunny.
The skies were clearing when the group shoved off from Burton's landing towards the first stop at Stephan Bridge. This section was lovely, big puffy clouds, blue patches of sky, a light breeze to accent the greens of the forest especially vibrant after the earlier rain. The usual mergansers, geese and mallards were spotted, but not much other wildlife. We had the river pretty much to ourselves, although a few fishermen were encountered along the way.
After a relaxing rest at Stephan Bridge, we continued to Wakeley Bridge where we took out. Nothing to remark upon in this second section. More of the same beautiful scenery. This was a great paddle for new & experienced club members alike, the river was wide, the current moving right along, but not pushy & enough obstacles to keep you on your toes, yet not too much to interfere with a little day dreaming.
Written by Tracie