The first day of kayaking for 2022 was March 2.    In 2023, colder weather kept ice on the river and when it started to break up cold winds prohibited comfortable paddling.    By March 12, we had signs of spring coming and on March 14 the winds were about 10 km out of the east.   Boat launch gates were still locked so getting to the water was more challenging, but can be done at a couple of spots.    In this case, there is a new concrete boat launch ramp at Pioneer Park so that was the location for the first paddle of the year.

The launch was easy, wearing a dry suit and neoprene boots for cold-water protection.    The paddle upstream was slower with a headwind and a current.

The first few paddles will all be on the river – upstream, downstream, and at other launch spots.    All efforts will de dependent on the winds each day.

A short video features some of the moments on the river: