The route followed the Great Dismal Swamp Canal, which parallels Rte. 17, from the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center in South Mills, NC to the Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp in Chesapeake, VA, a total of 7.5 miles. It was a rather long distance for the first paddle of the year, especially since once you start you either have to finish or return to the start. There is really no place to stop and remove the boat from the water.
The first landmark is the Mile Post 28 post just up from the launch. That allows you to count down (27, 26, 25, etc.) so you know how much punishment is left. Took our first break at mile post 25. The Captain was tiring. After a short rest and a Coke, it was back to paddling. Just north of MP 25 is the state line.
Around MP 22, we both were starting to feel the burn, so another short break was in order. then the paddle to the finish. Really pretty uneventful.Again, this was a very well organized event. All the volunteers and the people we met / talked with were very friendly. What more could you ask for? Good people, good fun, good weather, and a good time had by all.
1 comment:
Sounds like fun. So glad you guys got to get back in the water. Looking forward to reading about your Kayak adventures this summer...you could at least post a "Kayak Sidebar Adventure" about our trip in Cabo since I am not sure that 5 months later you will be able to get the whole trip blogged.
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