April Showers......

...bring rivers up to flood stage. Jake (Seayak) and I (Sirocco) made our annual trip through the flooded valley of the mighty Willow River near New Richmond, WI on April 3rd. His other bro-in-law made the trip as well, his first time in a touring kayak (my 14.5 carolina). The weather was warm (50ish) but the 40 mph gusts made it seem a little cooler.

The river wasn't as high as last year, but still flooded the river bottoms quite nicely. At some points the river, which is usually about 20-30 yards wide was over 300 yards wide. The current was very strong, especially when debris and brush blocked the way.

Chad managed to dump his boat just before we entered some decent whitewater, but was able to drag his boat to the side and empty quickly. He did a great job, and didn't seem to impressed with us, at least at that point. He found out later in the week how difficult it is to paddle a 17' kayak in whitewater, but that's a tale for Jake to tell. We all made it through the raging tempest (3-4 ft waves)unscathed, but dripping water from our helmets. The water was COLD! And as usual, the trip ended too soon. I sure like that little river.

Next week: The Apple River and Little Falls, I hope.