Description:
Updated: Mike Hollis and I paddled Landsford Canal on Saturday which happened to be the Lilly Fest. Based on observations and the ranger's report, the water level for this Saturday will be very low, maybe less than a 1000 cfs at the Rock Hill site. This is the level Mike and I paddled from the North end of the park to the south end of the park. Going around the island as we have done before is not recommended at this low level. ( 2000 - 3000 cfs is much better water) The first 1/4 mile will be very rocky so expect to get stuck a few times. I highly recommend shorter boats if you have that option. Further down at the lily field, which are in full bloom, the water flow is better. The time from the parking lot to the end of the park will be about 1 hour 45 minutes which includes a 30 minute lunch or photo break in the lily field. The beauty of the lily fields is more than worth the annoyance of the rock garden at the beginning. Bring cameras in your dry bags. This is short trip( less than 2 hours) if you stop at the end of the park but there are optional activities after the paddle. If you don't wish to continue down to the Highway 9 bridge, you can hike a trail along the river ( 3 miles round trip) with observation decks to view lilies. There are picnic tables and rest rooms.
Those wishing to continue the paddle to the Highway 9 will have deeper but slower flat water. Those persons for the longer paddle need to contact Mike Hollis at eugenemh@bellsouth.net to arrange an earlier meeting to drop cars at the take out and shuttle back so you can start with the rest of the group doing the shorter route. Remember there is a $2 fee to enter the park so have exact change if the ranger is not at the gate. Parking is good at put-in and take-out with the water just a few yards away.
Hope many can come. This is one of the most beautiful paddles of the year. These Rocky Spider Lilies only bloom from mid-May to mid-June.
