Yesterday was the absolutely perfect day to get on the water. Sunny, temp in the low 70s, light breeze. So I put aside the to-do list and loaded the kayak.
I decided to go to my 2nd favorite kayak location, Black Creek, on the Scottsville end, where I'd get lots of twists and turns and plenty of trees. Plus a handicapped-accessible loading dock that's a breeze to use. Since the water is high, I wouldn't have to worry about the MANY underwater tree trunks this creek is loaded with.
I set out, happy as a clam. After a short time I came to one of my favorite sights, an old double-bridge. How beautiful is that?!
As a rule, I go through the right side heading out. Kind of like staying to the right on the road. Hah! I got about 80% of the way through and it was clear that unless I was willing to lay down backwards on the boat and somehow simultaneously work against the current, I wasn't going to get through.
There was definitely not enough height to either turn around or back paddle my way out, so pushing on the 'ceiling' with my hands, I backed myself out without too much difficulty. I backed up in the creek, deciding if I would risk the other side of the bridge, try to explore some of the other side-shoots of the creek (where I'd never been so had no idea where the dead ends were), or be sad and call it a day. I decided to try the left side, and made it through without much trouble.
I paddled upstream for about 30 minutes and my hip was not just mumbling, it was grumbling. Much as it would make for a short trip, I figured I had to turn around and go back to the dock. I took another photo of the bridge heading back, and it's really easy to see what was going on earlier.
Now, I've seen people fishing in rowboats with small motors on this creek in the past, and they've made it through the bridge. The water is just high. Everywhere. This is apparently the 3rd wettest spring on record in our area. I am NOT COMPLAINING! I know lots of places are really hurting for water.
I wonder where I'll decide to head next week?
2 comments:
Very funny, in retrospect, of course! An adventure which produces a entertaining story. Beautiful day, though, and I love that you’ve a got a set up that allows you to get your kayak on your car. I’ve not been out yet.
I remember one of my first trips out on irondequoit creek, naively nosing down one of the narrow reed-lined corridors only to find out I’d gotten myself stuck. Not being able to turn around, luckily I was able to pole myself backwards out of that situation. Note to self, har…😜
You are one bold woman Peg! I'd not have had that adventure as I wouldn't have contemplated trying to squeeze under that bridge. Happy you had a great day and enjoyed your paddle and your adventure.
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