Trip Reports

A great day on the Manistee for the Lucky 13

Today 13 kayaks paddled from US 131 to Baxter Bridge on the Manistee River.  There were 10 TAPC members – Maureen, Deena, Lois, Karen, Marlene & Marv, Barb & Mike and Judy & Fred.  We all welcomed 3 new potential club members on this trip – Carole & Barry Eisfeldt and Charlene Miller. 



The group all got off without a hitch at 11AM.  Fred did his expected otter launch.  We discovered that Marv only has eyes for kayaks (see image in his glasses).





After an hour or so of paddling, the lead boats identified a lunch spot and we all settled in for grub.  There was a lively discussion about who dumped where (or didn’t officially) on previous trips because of whom or what. 



Fred’s otter launch after lunch was his most daring to date – about a 15 foot free fall to the river.



It was a great day to be on the Manistee.  We had sunny blue skies and warm temperatures as advertised.  This is a beautiful stretch of river with high banks, lots of trees, few houses and no paddling challenges.  Our swim break leader (Lois, of course), backed by the youngster (yes, Karen) found a nice location for a dip. 



Once refreshed, we pressed on for the take-out at Baxter Bridge, which was about an hour distant.

I think everyone had an enjoyable paddle, I know I did!

Reported by Mike