Happy New Year!

  Two months can either be a long time or a short time that flies by, and one can only appreciate the 'flying by' part when one lands on the ground and has a chance to look around.  Water under the bridge, a trail's beginning seen in the distance, the low road seen from the other side of the u-bend on the mountain pass....real life tesseracts as seen by the naked eye from here to there.   The time before the New Year is the space in which to reflect on comings and goings, the distance between those points and what we do to accomplish the journey.    Whether it's the desire to improve one's fitness level by means of diet and/or activity, a desire to increase knowledge and skills, or to improve the relationships in our lives, there is no shortcut for us to make that jump into the future without the road between.  Paddlin'Chix has been on a journey these last two years, or so, and it is time to move on.  There is talk of a name change, and possibly a companion blog to reflect what this name change entails, and the growth in which we see our group.  Many things that have been a part of our time together will stay-the details of our trips, the pictures, the memories, the friends and paddling companions-all a part of what this has become to this time. 
   For now, this is all I'm prepared to say.  But this picture that I found on PaddleNews newsletter this week reflects my feelings as well as a picture can tell.  A sense of mystery, a sense of adventure, companions, friendships- I don't expect A LOT from kayaking, but I'm sure hoping for more times to explore the possibilities with those who enjoy the same.
  Photo by Mr. Wayne Floyd, found at PaddleNews@paddling.net   

Happy New Adventures!     -Becky Hunt

Oh, Yes, I Can!

I set out with, and without the company of friends to walk, or paddle.  I have certain rules that I follow: listen to sounds, greet fellow passersby and look them in the eye; smile.  Take a walking stick. Be aware of my surroundings. For paddling: paddle as far from the bank as I would want to swim; wear my PFD; go on familiar waters, and stick to what I know...mostly.  For the colder days now, shift to clothing to keep warm, but not constricted-after all, I may want to take a picture!   I don't want to get wet, and a dry suit is a welcome thought for warmth and protection, especially in water that is cold all the time anyway.  But, for now, silk or NorthFace mid-weight long underwear, is keeping me warm under fleece pants tucked into  neoprene boots.  Wool socks, wool finger-tipless gloves with a mitten cap, and a light knit hat on my head keep the far-points warm, and  two layers add warmth under my PFD.  That is what I face the cold with, determined to keep moving, to beat the cold.

Where you might ask would I want to go in such armour?  How about Spring Creek, where I saw ice in the mud on the stream bank?
I was looking for Aspen, and there were few here.  However, there were still  leaves turning color...just around the next bend.  The headwaters, and the end of the creek proved especially colorful.  It was there for the finding.

Other places, hinted at the change of color, or what was left of the leaves- and the clear waters never fail to entice.

This then is the draw to resist winterizing and putting my kayak away for the season.  The view from the water....is fine.

I found the camping spot near the springs of the creek with a fire pit, and used the Sterno stove and fuel to make myself a nice warm cup of tomato soup.  Perfect.  Warmth inside to take me back.

Enjoy the views!

Bumping Up

The Klamath River Irongate run stretches on for approximately 10.8 river miles to near  the R. Collier I-5 rest area.  It also has some stretches of class I and II rapids.  I learned a few things from this run, which fullfilled my mental check-off list:  #1.  Face fears.   It gets easier when I'm experiencing new or challenging things.  The experience becomes less huge with friends who have gone before.  #2. Use proper equipment.  While learning the way of the water on my 106 Dirigo kayak, I was also learning the importance of a well-fitted spray skirt.  The 7.0 that fits the 14-foot Dirigo, does not fit the 106 quite as well.  Once the water splashed over the deck and filled my lap with water, I was tasked with watching every splash over, leaving me to fiddle with with a distraction I didn't need or want.  #3. At the end of a run, even though you know where your key is...eyeball it again before you hop in the shuttle.... a whistle that is as black as the key will simply not start the car!

While thinking about this run and remembering the Rogue River last summer, it feels like the Rogue was more work.  I took it in a raft, which I thought at the time would  feel more controllable.  I am pleased to say, that the Klamath River was 'not so bad'.  It was taking on what I thought of as a bigger challenge.  After all, there were reports of others who had fallen in at some point.  I paddled the river, and 'bumped up' my experience.

Experience alone isn't the only way to 'bump up'.  Solid information fuels expectations and possibilities, even remote ones.  While waiting for the next paddle, I'm reading  related topics to paddling, learning about others experiences, what they've observed, and how they view their paddles.  In this week's  "In the Same Boat" by Tamia Nelson, on paddling.net  she discusses survival in the event of a capsize without  the day-bag stowed on board.  Worth thinking about.
Now, I just need more time on the water.

As a reminder- many of our paddle trips are listed under two links,  "Trip Reports" and "Put-in and Take-out Locations for Local Area"  on the right hand side of this blog.  You will find information such as time-of-year river flows, put-in, take-outs, notable features, and much more for your paddling enjoyment. Also, equipment can be found at the web sites, many of which we've used.  I think I'll go look up 'spray skirt'...

Clues

As I paddled on Upper Klamath Lake last week, I saw several species of birds-pelicans, white egrets, gulls and 'ducks'- even a blue heron- resting on the exposed rocks near Putnam's Point.  The water has dropped maybe three feet, and the willow tree no longer brushes the water. The birds enjoy a safe place out in the open, untroubled by my distant passing.  I pull out my camera, and the low battery symbol is flashing on the screen.  I know I can push it a little and pull off a few exposures before the system collapses.  I was just starting my paddle up the shoreline.  I ran out of tape in my dispenser a couple of days later.  Something else, that I've already forgotten, finished, ran out...whatever it was- there were three things that said to me, 'finis'.  Need I say that the Fall equinox is this Friday? 

The feeling to hunker down for winter, is on the horizon, but it's not really necessary, yet.  The waters are calming, running low in the rivers, and paying attention to the changes will keep us going for a while.  Changing to warmer clothing, using spray skirts more, checking on river flows to see if rocks are going to be a problem- just a few things to enjoy the changing season.  My summer list of places to kayak, campouts  and hikes have been pleasantly accomplished.  The fall list is fairly small-paddle Spring Creek when the leaves are changing; take the run from Collier Wayside to Chiloquin; paddle Lake of the Woods... maybe Fourmile before it closes? and going with fellow paddlers!

I recharged my camera battery; I bought a new roll of tape; and while I'm still working on my version of a 'dry-top' for water resistant wear while paddling- I'm ready to think about this change of season.  What remains is to connect with paddlers wanting to do the same.  "Getting Connected" was a theme in church this last Sunday- and I am eager to kayak with others who enjoy it, too.   If you are interested in any of the paddles I've mentioned, please let me know and we can work out the times. 

Winter doesn't have come in a hurry and storing my kayak would be in line with missing the marvels of Autumn.  Let's connect and go kayaking!

Waldo Lake & Crater Lake

It's taken a couple of weeks to process the paddle camp that the three of us went on simply because there are too many words to express how satisfying it was. The weather was good, with winds that blew in the afternoon and then with gusto during the night and into the early morning.   Winds died down by the afternoon and put a kabosh on using the kayak sail Mary had rigged.  We found the camp spot across from Shadow Bay 'right where I had left it', and it was available-yeah! Goal one.  Goal two-paddling to Rhododendren Island, find it, and walk it.  Which we did.  If I had known, we could have packed our lunch and enjoyed one of two picnic tables there.  The last I had heard, it was closed to camping, however, the fire pits showed signs of recent use. This year, we just missed the flowers blooming by about three weeks.  Along the way we saw several other paddle-in camp spots I remembered, too.   In a book I have that spoke of Waldo Lake, it said the best way to explore it, is to take several days.  Oh, yes.  There were sandy shores that beckoned, and I saw more to want to go back and explore.  One note of resignation.  If you aren't bundled up for the cold, just assume that a screen tent is a sanity saver worth planning for against the mosquito hoards.  and repellant.  Lots.
Sunday morning dawned over a still lake disturbed eventually by our passage back to the put-in. I saw a humongous beetle doing a back-stroke in the water and made a slow lazy circle (that's about all I could do with my loaded 14 foot kayak) around to check him out. As I leisurely paddled into Shadow Bay, I became aware of a good reason that it might be called that. Through the clarity of the waters was my shadow on the lake bottom.

The legacy of Waldo Lake was exemplified by the departure of a fellow kayaker. I asked his permission to take his picture because I just loved what I was seeing in this family's outing. Thanks, Brendan!

For more Waldo Lake photos, please visit the photo album at the right.

"Wildflowers At Plaikni Falls, Crater Lake, NP"

And Crater Lake.  Just visited there yesterday to hike the new trail up to Plaikni Falls.  A nice easy path, and RIGHT NOW the park is awash in a proliferation of Wildflowers!

"Plaikni Falls, Crater Lake, NP"

Vist soon, they won't last much longer.

Wood River Snags

Several weeks ago now, a group of us kayaked down the Upper Wood River.  This was the second time this season I had done so, and remembered that last year the big old pine tree at the Day use and access park had looked sick or dead then, and was slightly tilted. This year, it was not only the color of a long dead tree, but it had also fallen completely across the river, blocking our river passage.  Right behind it is another old fallen tree that in the past, have had to pick through a narrow opening on the right side downstream bank.  The water is swift as it comes from a u-turn bend into another slightly less of a bend. On the latest day we hopped out to portage around the tree, a Forest Service Ranger happened to be on the park side of the bank with a group of students.  She asked our opinions regarding the blockage, and how did we feel knowing we had to cross private property to get around the tree.  We told her that due to the swift water at that point, and the depth of the water cut banks, it's not the safest place to get out.  It is done, and best with the group helping each other steady their boats.  If you miss the pull out, being swept along, you run straight into the branches.  There are no holes to scrap through even, and it creates a serious strainer and entrapment hazard for open river passage.  The ranger recommended that we voice our concerns to the      Chiloquin Ranger Station.    Also at issue is the thought to let it lie as it is to create more fish spawning habitat, even though the old snag is still there.   
  The fun part of contacting a listening ear:  Chiloquin phone # is 541-783-4001, talk to Mike Cutler.  He will tell you to call the Klamath Ranger District and talk to Mike Lawrence, District Ranger, or Margaret Bailey, District Ranger, 541-885-3400.  If you want to go further you can call the Lakeview Interagency Office and talk to the Forest Supervisor, Fred Way at 541-947-6201.  Mr. Cutler told me it has been discussed and determined to be too dangerous to remove, but he didn't mention that dangers to boaters were considered either.  So, please call these people and voice your concerns.

And Now, It's August

   My summer kayak trip list is slowly being checked off as August inevitably heads into the fall.  This last weekend my family got together and it was a blast giving the older kids a chance to try out the kayaks in the relative calm dock harbor waters at Moore Park.  Even my 8 year-old grandson, Liam, handled the paddle and kayak pretty well. No dunkings, tippings, -just, "yeah!  I like it!"  I got in the word to my son, "See, you've got some built in kayaking partners!"  I wish they lived nearer.
  On our calendar for August 19-22 is a paddle camp at Waldo Lake.  The final arrangements will be listed shortly and emailed to anyone who signs up.  This week I'll be calling the Oakridge ranger station to inquire about the snow in the area, (Crater Lake still has bunches...you can't even get to the wildflower garden) and check on the mosquitoe levels.  At Union Creek, nearer to Crater Lake, there are reports that mosquitoes are very thick that have necessitated a large amount of repellent use.  I think I'll plan on bringing a screen tent, if the snow isn't saying other things about camping.  In a book I picked up recently, 'Canoe and Kayak Routes of Northwest Oregon', by Philip N. Jones, I gathered more interesting features to look forward to. The irregular shore line is roughly 21 miles, on a lake 6 miles long and 2.5 miles wide.  Primitive sites are dotted along the western shore which will serve as base camp to explore the shoreline.  There are islands, but they cannot be camped on anymore.  I'm finding the observation of lake winds more interesting as time goes on.  The book mentions the 'moderate to gentle southwest winds that usually blows each afternoon.'  A sail would be most interesting to use when heading downwind.
     Of special note on July's happenings:  Several of our group attended a River Safety weekend on the Santiam River.  The report was excellent for the training portions and the hosting group did very well with organization and PRIZES!  An event well worth repeat attendance.
   Enjoy the heat of the summer, the cool of the water, and may your kayak and paddle take you true.

River Flow Levels

A week and a half ago, I paddled the Sprague River  with Mary and Lee.  Mary had told me to let her know when the water flow was between 600-800  cfs, and I checked in to see it just over 800.  Good enough.  By the time we went the level had dropped, and while the rapids over the rocks only lent us a tap down now and then, a week later, on another paddle, Mary reported that the continuing drop in the water flow resulted in even more bumps on the rocks  in the same areas.  This is a good example to check water levels on a regular basis to determine the passability of a favorite stretch of river.  In the trip reports you will find Mary's listing of various cfs levels and a description of the results in the rapids, as well as the apprearance of features, such as rocks and shelfs that may make the river either  more difficult to travel, or too low for a continuous passage.  Read through and pick out the reports for the Sprague River and you will find an interesting picture of a pleasant river run to try and how it looks at various water levels. 
Another trip report of note is of the Upper Wood River and the changes you will find in the run so far this season.  Rather than spoil the read, just let me ask this question:  "Does anyone have a chainsaw??"   
For your reference, and to check on the river flow levels of a river you are interested in, see 'Oregon River Flows' under Useful Links in the column to the right.
                                                    Have a great paddle!

Kayakers Portable Toilet

In response to Becky's post regarding having to pack out waste, a subscriber sent us to the following BLM page which shows how to make a Kayaker's Portable Toilet.

http://www.blm.gov/or/resources/recreation/rogue/portable-toilets-kayak.php

And now we know what's in that big bag she lugs everywhere.

The Importance of Being Earnest

   Mary loaned me a book to read,  "Rowing to Latitude" by Jill Fredston.  I can't put the book down!  A journal of the trips the author and her husband took together along the coast of Alaska, and elsewhere, are compelling with detail on a grander scale than we may experience on our short trips.  Thrown in are generous dashes of the philosophical, and quotes that give the reader a sidebar of the thought process of the long distance paddler.  From the first paragraph in the preface, I found quotes to make a quote book of my own.
   So, the title, the 'Importance of Being Earnest' came from my reading so far, and laying to rest one  'silly me' thought and raising another thought about camping far from home with certain considerations.  The 'silly me' refers to my habit of packing a day bag everywhere I go paddling with friends.  On the scale, it weighs a hefty 8.4 pounds and includes items such as spare food and water for 24 hours, a limb saw, a duct tape repair kit, first aid kit, emergency blanket, rope, a flashlight, personal care bag, microfiber towel, and other items that would carry me  through 24 hours of being stuck to wait for help.  Two years, and paddling, and I've only dipped into my bag to cycle things that would age out.  Even beef jerky has its limits!  My personal satisfaction is that I would be ready, just in case things didn't go well, and that I could not only help myself, but someone else, too.  I'm glad it's been a long wait, but I like the joy of being prepared.
   Preparing for a long trip, or a 'self-sufficient' short trip without tables, showers, or an outhouse requires more thought.  In the book, Jill tells the process they go through preparing for their trip.  Clothes take a good scale down, and layering is emphasized over choice garments.  Food is dehydrated to reduce space and weight.  Showers may just have to be a fresh water splash when available.  Okay, now the 'shhh!!' part:  the potty bag.  In some places, it must be packed out!  A book, "How to Shit In the Woods by Kathleen Meyer addresses this topic with candor, and humor.  Knowing where to safely squat is a good thing, and wondering how that porta potty on the Walmart shelf would pack in a kayak is a minor mystery and consideration.
   Ahh....sometimes I think of all the fun stuff to go camping with, and picture the opposite in the determined face of a dirty little boy running away from home with his stuff in a bundle tied to the end of a stick!  Camping teaches us how to be where we are with what we've got, sometimes wishing we had more, seldom less, but leaving us to think about 'next time'.  The balance and fun of the experience is just being there, a part of what it is, planned for, prepared fir, or not, and just breathe the air.  Preparation is being earnest with what we've gained from experience.

River Hazards

Click on the link below to read a great article on river hazards.

http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?566

The Life of Water

Sunday afternoon I set out for a short paddle on Upper Klamath Lake, noting the wind at my house, which is  in the same vicinity, appeared to be light.  When I arrived at the boat launch a short while later, I could plainly see that the winds were elsewhere and sending choppy waves to shore.  The short paddle turned into an intense study of wave action while pulling through troughs and splashes and cutting through waves in a sideways direction,  staying parallel to the shoreline at a safe distance.  The winds were still not heavy at this end of the lake.
 Yesterday morning I took a walk on the hill overlooking the lake, and made note of the smooth lake surface in the morning sun and thinking of other times that I've noticed this phenomenon.  Camping at Waldo Lake, of course, and taking the canoe out in the dawn as the rising sun filtered through the tree tops.
  Morning paddles on the lake offer quiet waters, sometimes with rising mists that appear 'sprite'- like.  In the  afternoon, winds pick up across the water.  What seems interesting is that the winds have a familiar pattern based on the surrounding hills and how the air seems to flow based on where they are situated.  The wind and air flow seem to follow a fairly predictable  pattern from one side of the lake to the other.  Not very scientific, just a comparison that may be useful.  For instance, I think, "Do I want to work more going out or coming in?"  I choose going out against the waves and  the wind  at my back for a swift ride back, though with the waves at an angle to the shoreline, concentration is still needed for what I can't see behind me.  Waves, for example, that are a little larger for no good reason, and some action that wants to send me out into the lake instead of towards the shore.

Upper Klamath Lake



Shore Acres SP, Oregon Coast



Benham Falls, Deschutes River

  When we talk about paddling rivers, we talk about volume and flow; rapids and obstacles like rocks, holes, strainers, and more.  When we talk about the ocean, we talk about tides, waves and surf.  We talk about about eddies, wind conditions, and water temperature.  All to get to know the character and the life of water, and perhaps ourselves as well. 

Why Wait?

If you're waiting for a balmy Spring day, you may be waiting awhile.  One nice day in two weeks just isn't enough for a hit or miss chance between workdays to hit the water. Unless.... your gear includes clothing that will get you out there a little sooner.  Dry tops have neoprene, or latex neck collars, wristbands and a strip that snugs around your waist. Dry pants have an ankle strip that fits over boots with velcro and another strip at the waist to keep water at bay.  Extreme drysuits offer coverall protection with the same neoprene/latex wrist, neck and integrated latex socks for water resistant durability.  The fabric is waterproof and the garment is made loose enough that layering with other layers for warmth is possible. If you're thinking wild water, then you're really serious and you already have your wetsuit!  Neoprene gloves, or  'pogies',  neoprene head warming hoods dress you  for the cold and misty days on the water.  "Dress for the water" is a recent quote given as advice for kayaking forays.
  I'm looking at the sky, and the sun is shining...some.  The clouds are on the horizen, over the hills, and dark grey, and in the distance low clouds diffuse the patchwork of snow in the mountains.  The wind is picking up, and has a decided chill to it.  The lake in front of me has wind chop, and the stick pile on the shoreline is two feet from the waters edge.  Clothing, as well as experience with weather conditions, and what happens out there on the water, will tell if conditions are up to the readiness of a paddler. 

  I sat in my warm car studying the lake in front of me, dreaming of the day not so cold to go paddling.  I'm yearning for warmth, and for the serenity of gliding across the water.  And with the steady motion of paddling, cut through water as still as a mirror.  I capture the "come-hither/go-away" scene with the camera and hope for warm sunny days ahead...and soon.

My Trip Down the Chetco and Smith Rivers

The first day of my vacation and first overnight paddle camping got off Friday the 13th. Mary, Lee and I (Lisa) convoyed over to Alfred Loeb State Park about 10 mi East of Brookings to meet and camp with Cecil and Marianne. They have been canoeing for 25+ years and run the rivers KNEELING the whole time! (makes my knees hurt just to think about it!) Really nice folks to have around and a wealth of river knowledge.

We got out on the Chetco about noon. It is supposed to be a class II river, but seemed mild other than one rapid just before take out. Beautiful, crystal clear water and river banks ranging from sandy beaches to fist sized rocks. At one point we met up with a guy loading rocks into a weird looking motorized river cart/truck/vehicle to make a "rock wall" to surround his Not Appearing Up To Code Standard home. He said it was "therapy" .......... hmm.....strains of "Dueling Banjos" started drifting thru my head. Other than the almost constant wind (hint, get out on the river early) and at one point Marianne saving my a** from going into a strainer, the paddle was uneventful, therapeutic and well appreciated.

The second day we took in the main fork of the Smith River getting an early start. I was to drive shuttle and we all stopped to check landmarks for the takeout. Leaving my car there, we then headed East. About 30 seconds after getting our boats into the water I was swiftly carried to a choice of: 1.) A sheer rock wall/canyon to my right or 2.) A boulder the size of a Volkswagen (or so it seemed) on my left, with a teeny strip (or so it seemed.. it was actually probably about 3' wide.... it just LOOKED tiny compared to the other two) of high flowing water in between. I determined that to be the route I was supposed to take. It was raining so my glasses were useless if not worse and were quickly stowed away. Besides, the waves were hitting me pretty regularly in the face. This river was a BLAST!!! Kind of a narrow, beautiful canyon with old growth Redwoods, wild lilac (Blue Blossom), Scotch Broom, Lupine, etc. A wave train of about 5 in a row stands out in my mind. I think the troughs had waves greeting me about eye level or above. Like I said, glasses were moot point. Lee asked if that one was a "Class 4". (-: My new kayak "Cosmo" is SWEET!

We were out on the river about 4 hrs with it raining most of the time. I think we were all ready to get out and get warm. I flunked as a shuttle driver, having left my keys in Lee's truck. $20 later the camp host was truly a host by driving Cecil and Lee to their vehicles.

The weekend was great with beautiful water, serene river views from our campsite, good food and best of all, excellent company.

BTW.....do NOT talk on your cell phone while driving in Brookings as I learned. Now I think I'll pop "Deliverance " into the DVD........

Happy and Safe Paddlin' Chix Lisa

The technical info:
5/13/11 - Chetco River (Class I & II rapids)  flow rate: 1430 cfs.  (Recommended flow rate by Paddling Oregon: 400 to 800 cfs) Put-in: Low-water Bridge approx. 10 miles northeast of Alfred Loeb State Park. Take-out: Alfred Loeb State Park. For more info, consult Paddling Oregon, page 48 and/or the following link:
http://www.kayaklunartics.com/Chetco.htm
 
5/14/11 - Smith River (Class I & II rapids)  flow rate: approx. 2600 cfs. Put-in: Follow directions to Stout Grove off Hwy 199; not too far after you leave Hwy 199 turn right into a well developed parking area. You can drive down to the river to unload. This access is above the confluence with the South Fork. Take-out: Ruby Van Deventer County Park on Hwy 197. Important info can be found at the following link:
http://www.kayaklunartics.com/Smith.htm
 
A harbor seal joined our flotilla at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and followed us for awhile - what a treat, as were the majestic redwoods, colorful rhododendrons, beautiful teal water, great companions! - Mary

Light Reading

My husband is a book hound who occasionally drops one into my hands. 'Kayaking Made Easy' by Dennis Stuhaug  was a recent find.  Amazingly rich with a variety of information, I've been browsing through the chapters and picking out interesting factoids to add to my growing appreciation of the sport.  It's also a great way to spend a lunch as the weather slowly warms before recalling a few of the things on my wish list of things to try.  Other things such as paddle strokes, and refining them, still need a gotta-see-it refinement, but lots of other stuff is good for the personal dictionary.
A little vocab quiz for you!  Wish I could write the answers upside down, but even Marilyn VosSavant got thumbs down for doing that, sooo...Test yourself and mark it A+ if you already know it:

What are 'sponsons'?
What is 'the fetch' in reference to?
(trick question)  What is 'Neffie' (or NFE)?

Answers:
Sponsons:  A pair of fabric pontoons that strap on either side of a kayak for added stability.
the Fetch: refers to the area of open water over which the wind has blown.  Here's a bonus as to why I included this: Do you know what the Beaufort Scale is?
Neffie (NFE):  Stands for Not Far Enough.  A 'disease' by the author's definition, that causes a paddler to paddle on and on for many hours. (Just one more bend...maybe the next beach will be better, the want for speed)
Hope I've added something new for you!

This weeks Paddling.Net has a good article, too, just in time for early cool weather paddlers:
 http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?557

Invitation to Solo

The borrowed blue PFD and a taped unfeathered paddle saw me into a demo kayak on the bank of the Deschutes River in Bend. Just before he gave me a push off, the young tousled haired young man asked me, "Are you confident?" "Yes," I said. He then explained just where I should paddle, avoiding the spillway to the right, and recommending I could paddle as far as the second bridge where he said the current would become too strong to paddle against. I set off upriver against a fairly stiff current keeping close to the bank. While studying the 106 Old Town Camden's handling, and keeping an eye out for tree limbs, I suddenly realized I was out on the river on my own in sight of shopping malls, backyards, and a busy river cross walk bridge coming up shortly. I made it to the second bridge, and found the current not so hard, and paddled into the broad bend that beckened for some distance. It was tempting to keep right on going, the day so fine, sunny with a cool breeze. "The (river is) lovely, dark, and deep; but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep..."-RF After trying out another kayak, and purchasing a river map. I set out for my next destination.
The Garmin nuvi265t was my husbands Christmas present and I used it to navigate from the river to Tumalo Falls. I was very pleased with how it worked, navigating me through neighborhoods and traffic circles. The only thing it couldn't tell me was that the gate was locked 2.5 miles from my destination. It accurately helped me find the next stop, which also took me through new territory through town.
A couple of thoughts about going 'solo': the young man's question, "Are you confident?" asks for a bundle of information. Experiences enough to answer 'yes' come to mind. When confindence is as easy as answering 'yes', it leaves the mind open for other important things, like a clearing wind blowing away cob webs and clutter. It was just what I needed

Sprague River in the Spring

Becky asked me to report on the trip that Lee and I (Mary) took down the Sprague River with our whitewater canoeing friends Cecil and Marianne.
We put in below a bridge near where the Williamson River Rd takes off the Sprague River Rd to the left. The flow rate was 1,680-1710 cfs and the trip was approximately 10.5 river miles long. The first few miles were flat with a nice current. However, shortly after we passed the old Bray Mill site we entered the Chiloquin Narrows which is VERY rocky, but with the river at this level all but a couple of the biggest rocks were covered. Since there was not much gradient, but plenty of flow, the rocks on the bottom created A LOT of turbulance - resulting in a mile long stretch of Class I and II waves, some of which was medium size "chop" (off-set waves - "off-set waves are concave and large waves can be violent, tossing the boater from one wave to the next like a hacky sack." ) - It definately felt like this a bit in one spot - not much control.  Even with the spray skirt, I took on water, not sure how other than the waves may have peeled the lip of the skirt back momentarily.

At this flow, the stretch we usually do from the substation down to the take out also had bigger waves than we have experienced before. The most the Chix have done is about 1010 cfs. It was a fun trip through our old paddlin' grounds at this flow rate.

This was the fist time I wore my new dry suit. It is actually an Anti-exposure Navy Flyers Coveralls that I purchased new from the Switlik Parachute company for $325.00. It is made of Goretex/Nomex and slightly customized for me. The suit kept me perfectly dry but a bit cool in spots (forearms primarily) because the outer Nomex layer did not shed water well, but rather asorbed it. The breeze across this damp fabric caused me to be slighty cool in those areas. On this 40+ degree spring day I was never cold, but neither was I toasty warm. At that temp and with a breeze, another layer on top and bottom would have taken care of the problem. Our hands froze. This was the one thing we found rather unbearable. Lee had Chill Blockers and I had regular Seal Skin brand gloves and both pair got completely soaked and left us with really cold hands. Our new whitewater paddles do not have drip rings so wet hands were inevitable. We'll have to figure out a better glove solution for use in spring-time paddling.

Total trip time was about 4.5 hours including lunch break. I would do it again, it was a lot of fun.

I have uploaded a spreadsheet containing kayaking trip data for the past two years. You can access this trip data through a link over in the right-hand column. I plan to continue posting trip data such as flow rates, put-in and take-out locations, as well as specific information the paddler may need to be aware of. - Mary

Happiness Is...

The song goes..."Happiness is two kinds of ice cream, finding your skate key, telling the time!" My happiness is getting the clickety snow tires off, a clean car, and the season's first kayak river run! Here's a little bit about our recent three hour trip down the Lower Wood River in Klamath County:
Access to the lower Wood River is at a bridge that passes over it near the west end of Weed Road, off Highway 62, south of Fort Klamath. The water level is currently high at the bridge-a kayak cannot pass underneath from upstream. Parking is on the north side of the road near a rock pile and brush that we've seen crawling with baby snakes in the past. A Barn is in sight a little ways off on the other side of the river, and the road.
Before we set off, we stood on the bridge and studied the river flow and channel, noting how much the flooding obscured the channel and over the banks.

Downstream, the channel was fairly easy to recognize by the stronger water flow, the lack of vegetation prickling up at shallow spots, and embankments just underwater that proved not hard to follow. Towards the end, the water became more sluggish and paddling more necessary to make headway. Of note, some of the flooded corners played mischief with the current and provided us with some deep water eddies that wanted to turn us sideways and around. There is one point about three-quarters of the way down, that the channel diverges clearly to the right and left. Right, is the short way through, left is the long way.
We sighted a bald eagle, hawks and possibly some nesting golden eagles, canadian geese and other waterbirds that took flight at the slightest sounds in the nearby Wood River Marshland. The end is in sight as a road embankment, with an underpass that continues into Agency Lake. The area to the right of this feature, we were told, is currently part of a government research project and partitioned off with a strange barrier plunked down at the edge of the channel. Continuing to the left however, against downstream water flow, will give you bank egress in one of two places. It's very wide along this part of the channel, and near the end of this stretch, you can see a boat dock on the right embankment (Wetlands canoe launch site). A short path leads to the parking lot which is more suited to visitors who wish to use the wildlife viewing area and walk in. Mary chose to back in the boat trailer to pick up. The other area is a little ways more up the channel, which turns left, narrows, and at the end is a dock and a boat ramp at Petric Park, with plenty of maneurvering room and parking. How to get there: From Hwy 97 north from Klamath Falls, turn left (west) on Modoc Point Road, continue north until you find 1)the Wood River Wetland access road; or, a little farther on, 2) Petric Park, both on the left. To get to the launch point, continue north on Modoc Point Rd. until it ends at Hwy 62; turn left and continue up to Weed Rd; turn left and travel until you see the bridge over the Wood River. It's about 7 miles on the road from Petric Park to the bridge.
It was a nice little grab on a sunny day that finally showed up. Paddle On!

Ahh! Spring!

As Spring is still tangled up in winter, in our part of the country, warmer weather can't come too soon! In the meantime, with the occasional sunspot of warmth (while sitting inside the house or car) and wearing gloves and other winter warm clothing, there are some preparations that can be made for a season of paddling pleasure. Before I hit the garage and the gear however, there are a couple of inside things to take care of:
#1. Don't forget to renew your Oregon boat permit.
#2 Browse guide books, guide services online, camping cookbooks, kayak magazines and so ON! to stir the imagination, and wish list of places to go, and things to do.
#3. Now out to the storage area: do you need to finish any clean-up on your kayak or camping gear? Last weeks e-news from PaddleNews, (Paddling.net)gave an in-depth article on spring cleaning kayak equipment. My camping gear is all in one place, sure. However, my chore is to sort it out for the easiest grab n'go. This means taking inventory of my day bag or 'go-bag'and making sure things haven't gotten switched around, used up or ruined by varmints. Same with my (ground) camp kitchen and gear, paddling camp gear, and so on. For tents, you may wish to apply a fresh ap of seam-sealer, CampDri treatments, and check for holes. I have my sleeping bags stored in a garment bag in the garage, and I'll still shake those out for spiders. And the trailer! It needs a new running light.
#4. Take the time to test out new equipment before you use it 'for real'. I'm thinking particularly of stoves. Set-up tents before you have to figure it out in the wind; A dry run to pack your kayak with your gear to see how it fits gives you time to downsize or add.
#5. Practice, refresh, improve skills in map and compass (navigation), knot-tying, first aide, paddle strokes, survival skills-things that will take you through the outdoors alive.
Okay. Now that I've got that out of my hair, next post will focus on places we've been and put-ins and take-outs for our kayaking day trips.

Ten Essentials

So, okay...it's been more than a week since I posted last, and we've all been busy with our stuff and to be truthful, I have several variations on the list that need to be picked through as I write. "Food, clothing, shelter" are the title categories of anything anyone constructs as 'the ten essentials' to carry with them on a day's outing. I appreciate going light, and carefree, in faith and confidence, and it never hurts you or someone else to be prepared for some deviations from the plan. If you know how to extract these things from the earth around you- cool! If you're more like me, some 'stuff' is helpful to fill in the knowledge gaps. Here goes, and think of your own alternates, or additions: (One more thing, this list is a suggested supply for 24-hrs only) 1. water. Enough for you, for 24hrs. 2. Food. Same thing. 3.spare socks, layer-up jacket, vest-considering the terrain and season; 4.mylar emergency blanket; 5. 50-ft poly cord 6.compass 7.first aid kit; 8. matches in waterproof container; 9. flashlight; 10. tabacco-tin size survival kit (beyond 24hrs). Also for comfort, some hygience supplies and plastic baggie for trash. For now, I won't go in to the lists of items for say, the first aid kit or the tiny survival kit. Nor will I elaborate on the need for spare clothes. The basic thing I want to convey is to be prepared to take care of yourself if or when the need arises. Some of these things can be worn around the neck (the compass); other things are assumed as standard outing gear (a good pocket knife). Two more things worth mentioning. No matter how experienced one is, there will always be the element of surprise. "Be Prepared" isn't just a Boy Scout motto. And, learning and knowledge is the best preparation of all. Learn more about what you feel lean on.
Well, there it is. I hope I've made you think a little and beg your indulgence if my list isn't your list. I'm open to learning!

Wait, Watch, Wander

Winter, another word that starts with 'W', often makes some people head for the hibernation cave, and keep as cozy as possible. For others, the snow is the seasonal splash park full of fun! Whether you wear the goose down, or snuggle in it, there comes a time for everyone to put it away, and look forward to the next season.
An article in a recent PaddleNews brought to mind the need for reviewing ones supplies for outdoor excursions. On a hike on a cold afternoon, the writer went for her matches to make a hot cup of tea, only to find not one of them would light. Then, to add insult to injury, the lighter didn't light either, perhaps because it was too cold. Another example was the searcher who was checking on his mylar emergency blanket. He found it welded together from the heat of recent outings.
Make your 'Go' bag your friend, (instead of finding it 'gone') and check its resources for the following:
Fire lighting: matches good? lighter lights? Alternate fuel types: You may want to consider keeping a flint (and lint) and practice using it before you need it.
Emergency blankets: check the package to see that it's 'fluffy' not flat.
Other items such as dates on medicine packs; check first aid supplies for intact packaging, content, and dates if present.
Re-Supply: anything that was used and removed or shifted to another bag. Take a good look at food items for wholesomeness. Soon, it will be time to wander again, whatever the season; checking your 'go' bag will serve you well.
Whether hiking, boating, biking, whatever your day excursions, there are ten essentials to consider bringing along. Do you have your list? Next week: a review of ten essentials for a day's outing.