As the rivers reach freshet, the floodlands near the mouth of the Thompson River can be paddled.   A small launch spot next to the Y in the road provides parking and a hand launch spot for one boat at a time, suitable for kayaks and canoes only.   From this spot, paddlers can paddle through the Tranquille Wildlife Management Area (Tranquille Bay) or out towards Cooney Bay, across the river to the wetlands, or up river along the shoreline.

Paddling conditions inside the bay, in the wetlands and in Cooney Bay are protected.   Crossing the river is not too difficult, but has one kilometer of open water.   Paddling from Cooney Bay to Battle Bluff can follow the shoreline for protection, but winds around Battle Bluff are probable.   On a calm day, paddlers can go beyond or across the lake.   Wide views are available from the middle of the valley.

On a day with no wind, the reflections in the water provide optical illusions which can only be seen from the water.

Mount Mara provides a scenic backdrop to the calm waters of the bay.

Ducks and geese use the wetland habitat from May to July.   Predators move in soon afterwards.   On this day, ospreys and eagles roamed the shorelines.   Painted turtles sunned themselves on logs.   Fish jumped with a fresh hatch on the water.   If you go to the wetlands, go quietly, bring your binoculars and your camera, glide unobtrusively among the “floating islands.”   This is place of peace.   Paddle in synch with the rhythm of the wetlands.