Destination: Up the Rivers, with a Paddle
Date: SATURDAY May 14
Time: 4:10 pm (4:30 paddles in the water)
Meeting Place: Airpark boat ramp
Description: Enjoy the boost of the rising tide as we navigate the entire length of the Courtenay River, then a portion of the Puntledge and Tsolum Rivers too! Inspect the revived 5th St bridge from a seal’s vantage point. Should flow conditions prevent significant upstream progress (due to unusual release from the dam, etc.) we will find some way to amuse ourselves in the Estuary. Optionally and weather permitting, bring a lawn chair and your dinner (or a snack as your prefer) and afterwards we’ll nosh tout ensemble en plein air.
Length of Trip (hours/days): 2 (hours, not days)
Rating: 1= Day Paddle–Easy.
Coordinator (name/email/phone): Jim Belair
Max. People: no limit
Other Conditions: High tide ~ 6 pm DST
Notes: This is not to be confused with the Courtenay River in New Zealand, now better known as the Waimakariri River. The translation of the latter from Maori (“cold water”) is fittingly appropriate though, as that is exactly what we will experience as the meltwaters make their way to the sea. Yes, the spring conditions will call for protection from cold shock- neoprene, paddle jacket, etc. Since the bank will be close, immersion is not much of an issue but that initial gasp reflex is.