By Peter Clayton

This outing was like a three act play with each day being quite different from the others – certainly the paddles were. Six of us braved forecasts of rain and cold and were rewarded accordingly. I’m sending the write-ups in three sections – one for each day – accompanied by Stan’s usual excellent photos.

Day 1

Wednesday morning we convened at the Holiday Inn Express to wait out the expected rain squall. We were able to check into one room where luggage could be stowed until all rooms were available that afternoon. Then it was to Mojo’s restaurant for a hearty lunch which provided leftovers for most of us. By this time the storm had passed, the sun appeared and we headed for the launch at Silver Springs State Park – in the water by Noon. The 5 mile route downstream was made easier by a good current plus a breeze at our backs. The scenery is always amazing plus many manatees appeared along the way and a few monkeys plus the usual birds including hundreds of ibis which covered the trees. Only one pontoon boat passed us and there a few other paddlers but it was relatively quiet. Dinner at a pizza place across from the motel was enjoyed by all and featured a small bottle of red wine from Georgia – the country – which didn’t make the “recommended by” list.

Day 2

This paddle was different not just in its length – as long as any we’ve done – but also the totally natural surroundings with no other boats to distract us. No manatees but lots of mid-size gators and plenty of turtles and hundreds of ibis. The Fall colors were especially evident – the burnt orange of the cypress being outstanding. Thanks to the swift current and steady paddling we made the trip in about three hours with a couple of rest stops. 

Day 3

Our last day marked a return to one of our favorite and most notable paddles – Juniper Creek. At seven miles it was the medium length of our paddles but because of its narrow, twisty, fast flowing nature with lots of obstacles it took the longest time – just under four hours. There weren’t many photo ops because we had to concentrate on where we were going, however Stan did get a video of the first major low limb which required a “get out and walk” solution by Steve and a “limbo” approach by yours truly. We had more low limbs requiring special maneuvering than ever but the high water reduced the number of submerged deadfalls. Ned earned a Juniper Springs Dunk Club sticker thanks to being pushed into the underbrush along the bank. We went through one shoal without incident.

Once we retrieved the cars and loaded the boats it was agreed to skip lunch and head home – weary but thankful for three wonderful days. Thanks to all the participants and especially to Stan for the photos and videos.