Dale Elley-Bristow has generously volunteered her time to organize several interesting kayak excursions throughout the summer. The group has been paddling up a storm, enjoying our local waters and wildlife – from Collingwood’s sparkling inner harbour to the Beaver and Coldwater rivers, the Trent Severn Waterway, Nottawasaga and beyond.
These outings provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, get some exercise and spend time with fellow Probus members. Thank you, Dale, for organizing these adventures and helping us make the most of the summer months!
June 22nd – The kayak group launched in Collingwood Harbour for our first outing of the year. The weather was wonderful, sun and no wind making for a calm paddle. Highlight of the trip was seeing the 60 ft racing sailboat “Be Water Positive” that is here for the summer, before it races off around the world. And of course the views of the escarpment and wildlife from the water were exceptional as well.
On Monday, June 29th, we paddled from Washago to Lock 42 on the Trent-severn Waterway on a beautiful sunny and hot day. We got to ride through the lock for free, as it is a National Park, and they gave us a special pass to stick on our kayak so we can come back all year for free. We also got to inspect the railroad bridge that swings open on wheels to let tall boats through. And our special guest Fin got come along for the ride.
On July 6th we kayaked the Beaver River from Epping to Heathcote on a perfect sunny day. The water was high and as usual the swifts were swift…with everyone making it safely through. A few sightings of Blue Herons, green herons and egrets were made. A great lunch was had at the Blackbird Pie Company
On July 13th, we headed to Coldwater. We paddled the Coldwater and North rivers to Big Rock and back. This was an 8 km kayak nestled down among trees and a marsh. We lunched at Big Rock, where we got the luxury of getting out of our kayaks to explore and shake out the legs. Big Rock is the first hint of the Canadian Shield to the north and it pokes up out of the plain. After the kayak, we explored Coldwater, venturing into the great craft stores, clothing stores, and of course, a great pub where we had an early dinner before returning home.
On July 20th we had the perfect day for kayaking, sunny skies, no fire smoke, a moderate temperature, and the 10 km paddle along the Nottawasaga River was exceptional. Lots of blue herons, a bumper crop of kingfishers, a muskrat and an egret all added to the day. We also got a new perspective on the China Bowl, that we usually snowshoe from on top…it really is a large sand dune. The river was really flowing so it was a great paddle, drifting along for the 1st half in the wilderness, and the 2nd half ogling the cottages.
On Thursday, August 13th, an eager crew did the remake voyage to Severn Falls to do the 10 km adventure to Lock 43. We managed to get up the dinnertime rapids on our way to the lock, and have a quiet lunch at the lock before heading back. On the way home we earned full bragging rights as the wind picked up and we had to battle all the way back, not only the wind but some crazy boat drivers. But we all made it safely for a great dinner at the local restaurant. From the patio we got to watch the chill kayaker with a beer….it certainly didn’t feel like that out on the waterway.
On August 17th, we had planned to go the the Marine Railroad up at Big Chute, but the winds kicked up overnight to 40 kph gusts, and we decided to nestle into the Beaver River instead. The Beaver was as beautiful as ever, but the rapids had expanded and were more tricky this time around. Jim was kind enough to get out of his kayak and help everyone through the rapids…Bravo Jim. After the rapids, the paddle settled down and we got to enjoy the scenery again. Also we welcome to a new member Sharon Bailey, who made her first outing with us.
Dale Elley- Bristow and Duncan have organised many amazing kayak trips this summer. Their dedication, fun and adventurous spirits are amazing and our membership is so fortunate to have them in our club. Thank you, thank you, Dale & Duncan!
Sue Charman
Thanks so much Dale for organizing all these wonderful outings and to Dunc for making sure no one was left behind and to Jim, always the gentleman helping everyone in and out of kayaks. Loved every minute even the wind and rapids – a little excitement is good for us.
Chris Keiser
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