Halloween paddle on Columbia Canal. Friday, October 31, 2008.

Paddlers: Dennis Catoe, trip leader, Mike Hollis, and Geoff Bonham.
Conditions: New moon, 50s, clear sky, no wind, no flow.

We met near diversion dam at dirt parking lot. Only 3 paddlers showed up. Disappointing turn-out but it was a Friday night and weather had been predicted at high 30s. Weather was much better and actually pleasant. Photographer from The State newspaper was there and took photos and got names of paddlers. Photos and info was published in Saturday's paper, front page of Metro section. Mike was in his Jason hockey mask and had lighted pumpkins on the fore and aft of his kayak. Geoff has a knightly suit on, maybe the Black Knight of Halloween. I had my old mad kayaker mask on and waived a chainsaw over my head. Best costume goes to Mike because he even scared me. Something about the cold, dumb, soulless, and mindless eyes behind the hockey mask. Also the lighted pumpkins on his kayak was a stand out.

It was a nice paddle. About 2 miles down to footbridge at park and then 2 miles return to parking lot. A few joggers along canal picked up speed when they saw crazies zombie paddlers approaching. On the way back there was a loud splash from behind. Then I heard someone say "Hey, Dennis, its coming up beside you". This is not the best way to get on my good side. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw something swimming in the water beside me. After a deep breath, I realized that it appeared to be a beaver. It turned and headed for the bank. We continued and heard another splash. A little further and another splash. Apparently the beavers were annoyed at us or wanted to play trick or treat. Back at the take-out, we were greeted by Kathy Sheppard with chili. Mike had brought pizza. Too bad we didn't have more people to share in the fun.

Dennis Catoe