pklonowski
Unrepentant Canoeist
The North Branch of the Chicago River, aka The Ralph C. Frese Canoe Trail, is the site of an annual event that draws paddlers out of the woodwork on New Year's Day. The weather forecast looks good... two days of snow-melting temps with rain to put some water in the river, then a high temp of 28 F (-2 C) and scattered snow flurries on Jan 1st. The put-in is at Willow Road; the paddle itself is about 6 miles, to Linne Woods. The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is the host of this event, and they provide a free shuttle bus service, port-a-potties at both ends of the trip, and hot cider and donuts at the takeout. The shuttle service starts around 8:30, with the first boats expected to launch at 9 or so; shuttle service ends at 11AM or so. Join us!
There are two dams that require portages. Both portages are short, but one take-out and both put-ins are a bit challenging. More than a few folks dump their boats every year, and have to be taken out, but safety boat service, with boat schlepping help, is there as well. In fact, if you'd like to help with safety boat work, let me know!
There are two dams that require portages. Both portages are short, but one take-out and both put-ins are a bit challenging. More than a few folks dump their boats every year, and have to be taken out, but safety boat service, with boat schlepping help, is there as well. In fact, if you'd like to help with safety boat work, let me know!
