We will meet at the River Front Park at the top of the Columbia Canal at 6:30 p.m. After we shuttle our cars to the Amphitheater parking lot and return will sign the release form and have a brief meeting to discuss the trip and safety issues. We will put in just below the fish ladder and have a leisurely paddle to the Amphitheater take out by the Gervais Street Bridge. It is a little more than 3 miles on the water and we should be able to complete the paddle in about an hour and a half.

The Broad River section of the trip is slow moving flat water, however there are several rocky sections along the way that we may have to portage if the water level is down. I would recommend that you paddle a boat that you don't mind bouncing off a rock or two. The sun should be setting around the time we near the take out so you will need to be comfortable with paddling at that time of day. We should see various birds, turtles and maybe a fish or two hanging around the surface along with the usual joggers and dog walkers working up a sweat. The ramp up to the lock and down to the put in are fairly steep so several of us will be on hand early to help everyone get their boats and gear in place. If you have a cart it will come in handy. If everyone that signs up arrives early (hint), we will get started sooner and have more time on the river. The Broad River section of the trip and the areas below the I-126 bridge and railroad trestle can be dangerous at high water levels. We will cancel if it is determined to be unsafe to paddle. So no car washing or rain dancing will be permitted for several days before the trip. There are several spots near the take out that we can go to after the paddle for those with out curfews and a interest in additional fellowship.

Directions to the Riverfront Park

From the Columbia side, take River Road or Sunset Road from N. Main Street towards Dutch Square. Take the last exit on the right before you cross the Columbia Canal and the Broad River. You will see a small blue sign that says River Front Park just before the exit. Take the small dirt road that runs along the Columbia Canal to the parking lot.

From Broad River Road heading towards Columbia you will take the first left after you go over the Broad River and the Columbia Canal. There is a small blue sign just before you turn left here as well. And follow the dirt road to the parking lot.

You are welcome to call or email me if you have any questions. Home 736-2331 and cell 209-2522.