BACK ON THE WATER: 2022 GREAT AMERICAN TRIATHLON TRAINING

The peaceful evening river shoreline was shattered by Dan Crandall's epic battle cry. Somewhere between the Tarzan scream and the Rebel Yell, the sound pierces the quiet and echoes throughout the valley. Moments later, the paddlers he is leading chime in with their call. Crandall tells the group in doing the cry will ease their tension and freak out the racer in front of them on the river. It will also let folks know racing is back on the American River Parkway.

The Great American Triathlon returns this weekend in Sacramento. The race, formerly known as Eppie's Great Race, will have athletes run, bike, then paddle the American River. Organizers took two years off due to the pandemic, but this Saturday, they are bringing the 40-plus -year-old tradition July race back to the parkway. The race, formerly known as Eppie's Great Race, will have athletes run, bike, then paddle the American River.

Dan Crandall works with a paddler.

While most triathlons have participants swim along with a bike and run, the Great American Triathlon uses kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for the water leg of the race.

"It's definitely different. What I say is, you are on top of the water, not in the water. You can enjoy the view, talk to people while you are paddling," race director Nicole Young told KCRA-TV.

The kayaking portion does provide a different dynamic from other triathlons with its "no swim" competition feature, and with the two years break, some racers may be a little rusty when it comes to paddling the river.
Like in past years, to help people get on the water, Crandall, the owner of Current Adventures Kayak School and Trips offered an array of training nights. During the last couple of weeks, to get the participants familiar with the river, he and his instructors have shown them the fastest and safest routes on the water to ensure success come this weekend. Over the years, Crandall and his instructors have coached over 1,000 participants to build their confidence, paddling skills, and river reading knowledge.

"Keep those hands loose and drive your feet into the foot pegs to get your power," Crandall calls out to the boaters preparing to leave the Sunrise access, the starting point for the kayaking section of the race. Crandall reminds racers to focus on their pace and use more than just their arms to make the boat go. He encourages them to use their core for maximum power and endurance.

San Juan Rapids

The Boston Marathon has Heartbreak Hill. Great American Triathlon has San Juan Rapids. It's a rapid, where racers can lose valuable time and go from first to 31st by miscalculating the boil. During the practice sessions, the paddlers were encouraged to run the rapid a couple of times during their training sessions to familiarize themselves with its flow and circular eddy.

"Lean forward. It's more about finesse than muscle here," warns Crandall while approaching the rapid. "Let it push you around a bit. Just get through it, and most importantly, smile and show the river you are not afraid. If you show fear, the river will dump you for sure."

During each of the training nights, there were more smiles than swims as the boaters navigate the troublesome rapid and paddled downriver to the finish line at River Bend Park. For some, it's their first trip down the river. For others, they are looking forward to racing again after the 2-year break.

Crandall and the Iron Hussies

 The 2nd Great American Triathlon is sponsored by Innovations Health Systems, a Citrus Heights-based healthcare holding company and managed by Capital Road Race Management. This year’s triathlon is once again raising funds to support the American River Parkway Foundation and local children’s charities.

Current Adventures Kayak School and Trips
PHONE: 530-333-9115 or Toll-Free: 888-452-9254
FAX: 530-333-1291
USPS: Current Adventures, P.O. Box 828, Lotus, CA 95651

info@currentadventures.com
owner Dan Crandall dan@kayaking.com

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BOATHOUSE DAYS, MY FOURTH SUMMER ON LAKE JENKINSON

After struggling through the Covid pandemic last season, I was hoping for a new bright season while working at the Sly Park Paddle Rentals located on the upper part of Lake Jenkinson at Sly Park Recreation Area in the Sierra foothills near Pollock Pines, California. For the past four summers, I had been there almost every weekend, renting out kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to anyone who wanted to come out and paddle the lake.

When teeming with water, the timber-lined lake is a boater's paradise. Divided by a narrow channel, Jenkinson Lake's larger rounded half is where you will find the swimming beach and campgrounds along with a good share of speedboats. While the upper half of the lake, being smaller and, narrower has more of a summer camp feel where canoes are still paddled with glee. Two babbling creeks, a scenic waterfall, and its icy pool only add to the lake's beauty and charm. 

When we started the season, the lake level was already as low as it was, back in September when we closed for the season. The Park Rangers told me it would only get lower as the summer continued.
This year was also going to be different because we weren't the only showing town. There was a lot more to do. With no travel restrictions, people now were going to restaurants, movies, and ballgames.
We had to make the best of the time that we had.
So like I have done over the past couple of seasons before, I began collecting notes, recounting my daily routine along with my observations of my days at the boathouse.

Saturday, May 8...Moving day at Sly Park. We packed two trailers of boats and canoes and brought them up to the lake. The lake is low but still looks good, at least until the middle of summer. I don't know when the water will stop coming. It is likely it will be a very dry summer. 
Friday, May 28...A quiet day as we kick off the summer season. Not many reservations, and so far, only a handful of walk-ups. Tomorrow looks like it will be busier.
The lake is low and not ready for swimming just yet. It's a bit too cold. It could use some more water, but after the third driest winter in California history, I think this is the best of what I can expect this season. 

Monday, May 31...Memorial Day. Both Saturday and Sunday proved to be very busy. After locking up, I took off to Sly Park Falls. Usually, the water is very high this time of year. However, this summer, the lake is very thirsty. I had to hike most of the way on the trail after paddling to the creek. I love coming to the falls at the end of the day. It is when the place is quiet. All you can hear is the sound of rushing water. Peaceful and relaxing. This is how I wish it could be all this all season.
I have three young ducks living near the dock. They like to find food around it. They appear to be orphans since I have seen no mother duck nearby watching them. They go under the dock back and forth and appear to be doing well. Meanwhile, some angler caught and happily released a nice-sized bass, I think to be Roger, who swims under the dock. My highlight last night was seeing the eagle of the lake sitting on a stump near Sly Park Creek. 

Friday, June 4...The lake has plenty of beaches this spring. I tell my customers that they can pretty much have their choice of any beach spots once they get on the water. With the lake so low, it's not difficult to find a spot.
I miss those days when there was a bit more water in the lake. It was always pretty amazing to paddle up to the bridge toward the rumbling of the waterfall. Its roar got louder and louder with each paddle stroke.
Hazel creek has never had the same appeal. It's like a boring straight-laced sister compared to the 33-foot dazzling display of falling water. However, last Monday, the creek was flowing quickly into the lake. Cold and icy water came in a rapid flow down toward the lake. I was tempted to surf it for a while, but it was not quite deep enough. When I turned my kayak, I got caught sideways pouring the cold water into my cockpit. I nearly rolled. Of course, I laughed. It was funny to be such a spot like a boat that's stuck in the Suez Canal sideways against the wall. My kayak is 16-foot, while the channel of the Hazel Creek was only 15-foot at the most. It would have been embarrassing if I had rolled.

The waterfall didn't flow after June. In the past, I would paddle up to the waterfall on the 4th of July. But this year, it wasn't flowing. It had been shut off.
Sly Park Falls is the jewel of the park. The waterfall trail is always a popular hike. Ordinarily, in the summer, the falls were filled with rushing water, splashing, and laughter as families came to visit the shaded pool. Now it was just a dribble.
For the past couple of seasons, I had usually worked alone at the boathouse. But this year, Current Adventures owner Dan Crandall sent up a young assistant to help me out on the busy weekends.
Teddy was a likable person who enjoyed working at the boathouse as much as I did. Bright and friendly the customers liked him just as much as I did. 

By July, There was no paddling up to the waterfall. There was no paddling even up Sly Creek. Instead of rushing cool water, there were dry stones and mucky silt. Every week, the bathtub ring around their lake grew larger. Tree stumps and boulders were rising from depths, and the lake wasn't as pretty as it had been before.

Sunday, June 6...It was steady Saturday at the boathouse yesterday. I even have a new helper that day. Teddy is just 18-years-old and was there to help me out. We had lots of reservations and many walk-ups all day. A likable person who usually works at the River Store.
The lake is still very low, is also very inviting. I have been able to jump in and swim. The water is very comfortable.
Friday, June 18...A very hot day at the lake. A very hot day all over California. The highs are all record highs of heat over 100 degrees. Dangerous to even some. Down in the valley, they are really suffering and trying hard to escape the heat. Up here, It was much better. Early on, there wasn't even a breeze. Teddy and I felt it as the heat bounced off the aluminum dock right back at us, cooking us like bacon on a skillet.

Friday, June 11...I escaped a bit and spent a share of the time observing the eagle of the lake. I think it's a young male. He has been flying around the boathouse this morning. So far, he is my only entertainment on an otherwise quiet day on the lake. In Minnesota, it is said every lake has its own loon. I would like to think that in the foothills of California, every lake should have its own eagle.
Sunday, June 13...Another busy day. The highlight being, my friend, Kelly, dropping by with a plate of BBQ ribs, salad, and of course, apple pie. Needless to say, She got a free rental. Like my wife Debbie, this is one of her favorite places to visit.
Saturday, June 19...The night before, I lead a sunset/moonlight paddle for Current Adventures. I had 7 adults and 2 kids, one of which I had to tow for a bit. The lake is so low it doesn't attract the same thrill, but there is still something special about a quiet evening on the lake as the sun slowly sets. In the spring, when there is a lot of water, we can kayak all the way to the bridge and have a short walk to the falls, but last night with the water so low, we had to hike a good portion and to make it even worse the pretty falls were not flowing and, the water had been turned off. It was disappointing because usually, it is my star attraction on this paddle. 

Sunday, June 26...Our boat ramp now touches the piece of pavement. After this, it's all dirt and sand. When we started the season, I think we were at least up 3 or 4 blocks. It doesn't look good for the rest of the summer. The lake is sitting at 75%, which is dismal for the last week of June. I told Teddy that this is what it looked like when we closed for the season last September.
Crazy fun stuff. This is National Canoe Day, and we didn't rent a single one. I guess that means I'll have to take one out for a ride at the end of the day.
Saturday, July 3...A good day at the dock. We were busy throughout the day. All our tandem boats went hit the water, and a good chunk of our day, our dock was empty.

Week after week, the walk to the boathouse got longer and longer. I got handy with a rake and a shovel extending my path after the cement ran. I outlined the trail with rocks and dead tree branches. Meanwhile, around the boathouse, sunken tree stumps rose from the depths of the lake each week.
Keeping the boathouse inline due to afternoon winds and lowering it into the lake came almost a weekly routine.
Still, I did enjoy the fringe benefits of running the boathouse with some canoe time after hours and especially nice when the speed boats were gone.
Toward mid-July, the first sign of threat to fire came as a helicopter showed up hovering over the lake like a hummingbird taking buckets of water to a fire. Little did we know at the time that it would be a sign of things to come for the lake and area.

Monday July 5...Last night, while I was out paddling, the rangers came by and moved the dock further out into the water. We lost some 7 feet. Now my customers will have to walk over mud and sand to get to our dock. I created a little nature trail to outline the path of logs and stones marking the trail.
Sunday, July 11...It's going to be another scorcher here on the lake. With no breeze, it's especially hot out on the deck. Yikes, it burns my bare feet!
The excitement came in the afternoon when after a report of a nearby fire. A big Chinook helicopter showed and took several loads of lake water to dose the fire. It hovered over the lake, dropping in large buckets, and scooping the water up, and flying away. 

Friday, July 16...The lake is holding steady at 72%, according to the sign at the gate. It does look down several feet at the boathouse. A nearby tree stump where a kid was standing last week made him look like he is walking on water is now down about another foot.
Friday, July 23...It's a bright and clear day. There is a bit of a breeze, but that's OK. It's keeping the smoke away from the fire that is in the east. I can see the smoky haze over the pines of Sly Park Creek. This is going to be a very long fire season.
Friday, July 30...The water which we don't have much of all dropped again. They moved my dock down into the shrinking lake. I was greeted by a sign at the front gate saying 15 mph as of August 9th.
Saturday, July 31...When I got to the boathouse, I met up with the ranger staff as we again lowered the dock further into the water and straighten it out. It seems this summer it has become a weekly occurrence. After that, I raked out another section of my long path down to the dock. 

During our summer, my customers would ask when would be the last day we would be renting out our kayaking. In the past, we went into September weekends. I mean, who wouldn't want to take a boat ride after taking a trip to Apple hill. But this season, we hoped to end on Labor Day weekend, but it would depend on how much water was still in the lake if it would be sooner. Little did we know that the Caldor Fire would abruptly end our season on the lake by shutting down the park. Instead of watching boats come and go, I'm checking the fire maps And Facebook posts and praying that the park and my houseboat house Are not destroyed by fire

Sunday, August 1...The lake is quiet and still to start this morning. At this time, any sound would seem sacrileges. Breaking the stillness of the water would be like putting a black line through the Mona Lisa. I wish it could stay like this all day. It would be wonderful to escape the daily battering winds that drive the waves up in the afternoon. Yesterday it pushed my dock around more than ever.
A good evening paddle last night as I paddled to the island and back in the fading sunlight. Not much for waves as all the motorboats were headed for home. They will be off the water soon anyway as the speed restrictions will be put in place next week. Our days are numbered, also. We won't get so much past September with the current water situation. 

 

Friday, August 6...A smoky day in the valley and a very smoky day here at the lake. The sun barely shines through the smoke-filled clouds. It is a great day indeed. The haze intertwines through the tall trees. By 2 in the afternoon, I could not even see across the lake as even more smoke blew the shore became more and more obscure. The lake is has been disappearing with the loss of the water and now the trees. It's by far the worst I have ever seen here on the lake. It's been that kind of year.
Sunday, August 15...Quiet start to the day. It is very still with the new speed restrictions. It will be a paddler's paradise now with the big boats off the water.
The rangers came and set my dock once again. While in the afternoon, a helicopter appeared on the lower part of the lake, taking more loads of water to a fire burning just south of the park.

Like many, we're waiting for all clear to get back into the park. The good news finally came this week. El Dorado Irrigation District announced, in light of the recent downgrades of the fire evacuation orders, Sly Park Recreation Area will reopen this weekend. According to a news release, the park sustained minimal damage during the Caldor Fire. The only damage to the park was caused by a back burn operation below the dams that have necessitated the closure of the trail system in that area. Horseback riders cannot circle the lake due to the trail closure. Other than that, the park was untouched by the flames, which is great news.
However, while the park is open, Sly Park Paddle Rentals is closed for the season. We'd like to thank all the Rangers and park staff who helped us keep afloat during the season and our amazing customers for their patronage of making a long walk down the hill to our boathouse.
The good news is we'll be back next year. Until then, we pray for the firefighters and the people displaced by the fire. But most of all, we hope for rain and snow to come to California this winter. To dampen the threats of fires and fill our beloved lake with water.

If you want to go on a canoe or kayak trip at Sly Park contact:
Current Adventures Kayak School and Trips 
PHONE: 530-333-9115 or Toll-Free: 888-452-9254
FAX: 530-333-1291
USPS: Current Adventures, P.O. Box 828, Lotus, CA 95651
info@currentadventures.com
owner Dan Crandall dan@kayaking.com

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PADDLING WITH SLY PARK PADDLE RENTALS

 

Sly Park Recreation Area is an idyllic summer setting nestled in the Sierra foothills near Pollock Pines, California. Offering something for everyone the park is the perfect spot to visit for a day trip or kickback for a long weekend.
Surrounded by a fringe of tall pines and rocky shores, Lake Jenkinson is reminiscent of those coming of age movies about summer camp. Certainly the jewel of the park, the lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. In other words, it's a perfect spot to paddle away the day.

Divided by a narrow channel, the lake is divided into two components. The larger lower lake is home to speedboats, picnic, and campgrounds and a swimming beach, while the upper lake has an old-fashion feel being a bit narrower and much quieter due to the 5 mph speed limit that is strictly enforced.
The upper lake is home to Sly Park Paddle Rentals which offers canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards throughout the summer on weekends in the park. For the past two seasons, The River Store & Current Adventures Kayaking School & Trips has been operating the boathouse rentals.

The boathouses hours
Fridays 9 am-5pm

Saturday 9 am-5pm 

Sunday 9 am-5pm

To help you enjoy the paddling experience of Lake Jenkinson, while at Slay Park Recreation Area here are a few tips to get you on the water.

Before you go
Plan early. While Sly Park Paddle Rentals does take walk-ups, it's best to make a reservation to ensure you get the kayak, SUP or canoe you want for an hour, all day and even overnight. You can book online at Sly Park Paddle Rentals or call 530-333-9115 or email at info@CurrentAdventures.com.

Entering the park requires a day-use fee. Camping is also an additional fee and requires a reservation. You can book that through Sly Park Recreation Area.

Standup paddling boarding is extremely popular on the lake and the boards are always being rented on busy weekends. Tandem kayaks and canoes are also very popular for families to get their young children out on the water. Single kayaks are great for those who want to get out and explore while perfecting their paddling technique.
Boathouse staff recommends booking at least two hours on the water to keep having fun.

What To Bring
Sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and beverages (no glass containers), small ice chest(s), shoes, or sandals will make your trip more comfortable, and a COVID-19 face covering. PFDs are provided by the boathouse for both children and adults. Remember paddling even on lakes comes with inherent physical risks that can be minimized by wearing a PFD. California boating law requires every child under 13 years of age on a moving recreational vessel of any length must wear a PFD.
Also, Sly Park Paddle Rentals is implementing a few new protocols on the dock area to help keep the staff and the visitors safe and they are asking everyone to wear masks while on the dock area for everyone’s protection including our employees.

When You Are Here
Best advice, come early and stay late. The park is extremely popular on weekends and day-use quickly fills up fast. Expect a line to get in the front gate anytime after 10 AM on up to 2 PM. Beat the crowd by getting to the lake early to enjoy the best time on the lake.
Boathouse manager Nick Carlson says the lake is calm right at opening and in the evening.

"Early in the morning the wind is coming from the east, but a little after 9 it stops and the lake is like glass. It's my favorite time of the day and the best time to get on the water. Towards mid-day the wind starts up from west coming through the narrows." 

Beat the crowd all together by going on a sunset paddle on Friday evening when the boathouse is open till 8 PM. On both Fridays and Saturdays, you can rent your canoe, SUP or kayak after hours and return it the following morning. Check at Sly Park Paddle Rentals or call 530-333-9115 to check the availability of the paddle craft. What could be better than having a sunset paddle before returning to your campsite?

Parking is available at the Stonebraker Boat Launch, 2.3 miles from the park entrance. Sly Park Paddle Rentals is located near the ramp.

When You Are on The Dock
To help keep staff and visitors safe, Sly Park Paddle Rentals is asking everyone to wear a mask while on the dock to meet the State and local health requirements. Hand sanitizer is also available at the gate.

The staff will only allow one family or a group of friends on the dock at a time. Others will be asked to wait just outside the dock area until other parties left the dock to ensure safety.
Every adult has to fill out a liability waiver for themselves and their children. You can streamline this by filling out the form online when you make your reservation at Sly Park Paddle Rentals.

When on the Water
Getting on the lake is a great place to relax and have fun. Maybe take a trip up toward Sly Park Falls or just float around the narrows. However, during the current health guidelines please consider keeping a 6-foot distance between others and avoid large crowds.

If you want to go on a canoe or kayak trip at Sly Park contact:
Current Adventures Kayak School and Trips 
PHONE: 530-333-9115 or Toll-Free: 888-452-9254
FAX: 530-333-1291
USPS: Current Adventures, P.O. Box 828, Lotus, CA 95651
info@currentadventures.com
owner Dan Crandall dan@kayaking.com

 

This article was originally published Outside Adventure to the Max on June 26, 2020

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WHITEWATER PADDLER'S SAFETY GEAR CHECK LIST

 

During a recent safety meeting at The River Store, a paddle shop within earshot of one of Northern California's popular whitewater venues the South Fork of the American River, boaters sat circled in lawn chairs on the store's front deck.

Current Adventures Kayaking School & Trips' Dan Crandall leans in holding a rescue throw bag and tells them this about a group of paddlers at the access before getting on the river.
In his story, the more experienced paddler asks everyone if they have a throw bag?

Courtesy of the River Store

 The rookie to group shrugs it off saying he doesn't have one, but tells them, he'll be OK without it.
The veteran paddler quickly offers him his saying, "You'll need to be ready in case I need rescuing, but however," the veteran paddler warned, "If it's the other way around you just might be out of luck."
The story got a laugh, but Crandall's point should be well taken. You should be prepared for any situation when whitewater kayaking. The life you save just might be your own. 

El Dorado County SAR Swift Water training officer Tim Cannavaro says it's appropriate to bring basic safety gear on every outing down the river. All your equipment should be in excellent condition to avoid untimely failure and additional items may certainly be relevant or necessary depending on the individual's responsibilities and abilities.

"Accidents happen," said Cannavaro, "Even on easier local runs. Maybe not to your group, but someone else may be unprepared."

Current Adventures and The River Store recommends this safety gear checklist before getting on the river.

• Proper river running kayak with "high" volume and enough length to provide for ascending moves and quick response/hull speed in fast or high water situations. Good "grab handles for swimmers to access. Good Inner floatation. (Float bags or similar.)
• Personal equipment:
• "Rescue" style PFD with quick release tow tether, good flotation. (Less than 3-years-old or newer depending on previous use and UV exposure.)
• Dress to be "Wet" in case of a sustained "In-Water" rescue attempt.
• Float bags.
• Breakdown paddle in the boat.
• High pitch waterproof whistle. (Such as Fox 40 Classic Safety Whistle.)
• Rescue throw bag & rope. (70' Spectra recommended.)
• Waist belt. (tubular webbing)
• Four carabiners. (At least one locking)
• "Rescue" knife with secure but easy access sheath of pocket storage.
• Good footwear for shoreline activity, to be worn at all times both in and out of the boat. (Open-toed sandals are NOT a good option in most cases.)
• Two or more prusik loops.
• Cell phone in a waterproof case.
• Small waterproof flashlight w/ Lithium battery and spare battery.
• Egress Map with personal/local phone numbers. (Family, friends, CHP, Heli, 911, Shuttle Service, and area outfitters. Even without cell service, a text may go through.)
• Well-stocked First Aid kit.
• Including, face shield or similar CPR aid, bandages, sling, rescue "blanket" SAM splint, aspirin, glucose, cloth tape, shears, first aid "book" or cards. pencil and waterproof paper, Tincture of Benzoin, gauze pads, waterproof tape.

While all boaters should have proper skills and paddling abilities for the water they are paddling in, Cannavaro reminds us, that you should also bring along a healthy respect for any river that you're going to kayak to despite any familiarity with it.

"Especially on sections often paddled or local." said Cannavaro, "Comfort leads to complacency."

By being well prepared with these tools and knowledge to help in any rescue situation you encounter, Cannavaro says, it will make you a well-rounded member of your paddling team.

If you want more information about their recommended gear list contact The River Store at info@TheRiverStore.com

This article was originally published Outside Adventure to the Max on May 6, 2020.

 

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THE PATH OF THE MOON OVER WATER: Tips On Paddling At Night

 

Joys come from simple and natural things: mists over meadows, sunlight on leaves, the path of the moon over water. -- Sigurd F. Olson

The two best reasons to ever buy a kayak rather than just renting one are for the stunning sunsets and splendid sunrises. Those first and last hours of sunlight, that photographers refer to as the "Golden Hour" creates a magnificent mood across the water as the sun slips behind the horizon or climbs steadily into the sky while gliding silently across the lake soaking in twilight’s peaceful enchantment.

On the other hand, there is magic in the night. After the sun sets in a fading crimson glow, while the rising full moon is casting an ethereal light upon the water and giving us just another reason to stay out on the water. There is a peaceful sense of stillness. The boat traffic along with the wind has died down while the birds and animals settle in till morning, leaving the nighttime paddler lost in space between the stars in the heavens and the serene of the water.

"It's one of my favorite activities," wrote Canadian paddler Harvey Chris Wittenberg, "Nothing better than glassy conditions during a full moon, when natural illumination is greatest. The only sounds you hear are the surf or your paddle breaking the water. A very serene "zen-like" moment."

Night paddling is not the time to explore new places. As the light fades as the world transforms into a silver a black panorama and keeping track of your bearings in the dark can be hard to correct. Distances are harder to determine and landmarks can be difficult to see. Wittenberg recommends, to scout out your route ahead of time and leave glow stick on a rock or tree at your launch point to help you find your way back in the pitch black.

"I've had a few times where it was not easy to find my launch point," writes Wittenberg, "Make sure if it is a new area to check it out during daylight first and leave a float plan along with an expected time you'll come back with a loved one,"

While calm inland lakes and protected sea bays usually work the best for a moonlight paddling trip. If choosing a river, it should be free of snags and rapids with a take-out point easy to spot in low light conditions unless you plan to paddle back against the current to your original access point.

For coastal tours, be aware of any changes in the weather that might make any part paddle more hazardous in wind, waves, and tide. Also, stay out of commercial shipping lanes. If available, try using GPS mapping to help you identify your location at night.

Consult the U.S Coast Guard's Navigation Rules and have on hand sounding devices, like a whistle or air horn, and some sort of telecommunication device, like a VHF radio or cell phone in a waterproof case and an emergency beacon to alert others who might be far away. Insect repellent and a jacket for cool weather are always a good idea and always wear your PFD.

The most important part kayaking at night, it's essential that you remain visible not only other boat traffic but also members of your own kayaking party. To help the group stay close together, place a battery or an inflatable solar light such as the Luci Light on your bow and stern. Keep in mind that artificial lighting actually hinders our night vision. Keep only the red light to preserve night vision.

Also, you can wear a bright LED headlamp and carry a reserve flashlight. If another watercraft approaches, you can turn your headlamp in that direction to alert other boats to your presence, but keep it off when kayaking or use the red light option to ensure the best view of the illuminating moon.

"It's good to carry a small light on the back of your PFD along with a headlamp," wrote Wittenberg, "I have fluorescent stickers on front and back of my kayak as well as on paddle because the paddle is the highest thing people will see. The best fluorescent stickers are the red and white ones you can get at a Marine store that work in sunlight and darkness, to put on either side of your kayak. Purchase a cheap green glow stick (for the front of the kayak) and a red one for the back."

Studying the mystery of the moon and stillness of the water while gliding silently along in night's enchantment is something every paddler should experience. In the dark, hearing nature’s symphony of frogs and crickets singing from the unseen shore while the moonbeams shimmer across the pond can be a truly magical adventure.


What to go...Check with your outfitter or local state park to see if they offer any moonlit paddle nights. Across the country, many of them provide guided sunset and full moon paddling sessions and with all the gear for a reasonable price. Northern California's Current Adventures has been taking paddlers of all skill levels on their popular moonlit kayaking excursion on Lake Natoma and Lake Jenkinson at Sly Park Recreation Area near Sacramento.

This article was originally published Outside Adventure to the Max on February 23, 2018.

 

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2021 NEW YEAR, SAME MESSAGE

″‘At last all such things must end,’ he said, ‘but I would have you wait a little while longer: for the end of the deeds that you have shared in has not yet come. A day draws near that I have looked for in all the years of my manhood, and when it comes I would have my friends beside me.‘”---J.R.R Tolkien,

It was early last August when I met Dan Crandall in Placerville, California. We usually had met there on Sundays, so I could hand off the receipts, waivers, and cash from my weekend at Sly Park Paddle Rentals on Lake Jenkinson. Like always, I was pretty beat up after a pretty good weekend up at the dock. The Covid-19 pandemic had halted the early part of our summer on the lake but since many of the restrictions had been lifted by then, the business of renting canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks had been booming. It was the same everywhere. To escape the constraints of the global coronavirus pandemic, people had flocked to the lakes, rivers, woods, parks, trails, campgrounds, and wilderness areas.

Usually, Dan was upbeat and boundless energy. River canyons still echo the booming calls he made while leading kayaking classes and race training. Popular and like-able Dan is a gifted paddler, a true friend, and a great boss.
But like us all the past year, like us all, made him a bit tired. I could see it in his eyes. While some of the activities of Current Adventures Kayaking School & Trips and its retail partner the River Store were doing as well, other parts had been upended by the pandemic.
I asked him if we had any upcoming touring session sessions coming up I could help with on. He said no that much of the summer classes had been curtailed. Then he said something that has stuck with me since.
"You know it's not going to go away at the end of the year." he forewarned, "People expect it to just go away then. But, it won't. It will go on into the next year."

Of course, Dan was right. As we start in 2021, the message is still the same as before. Be safe. Especially now, when hospitals are already under pressure and the death toll across the country continues to mount. California Gov. Gavin Newsom warned residents to brace for the impact of surge upon surge from recent holiday travel.

Snow Bound
Despite many new restrictions, outdoor recreation remains open. The ski slopes are operating, and many resorts are employing social distancing to limit capacity and reduce the crowds.
“Many ski resorts have changed practices to provide distance when waiting in lines or having people from the same group ride together on lifts,” Jan K. Carney, professor of medicine and associate dean for public health and health policy at Robert Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont in Burlington told USA Today.
“Bring your own lunch," Carney added, "And if you want a new and more socially distant activity, try cross-country skiing – outdoors, plenty of space, and great exercise,” Carney adds.

Cross Country Skis and Snowshoes Getting Hard To Find
While cross-country skiing and snowshoeing would ensure plenty of exercise with plenty of space to visit the snow. You just better have them already tucked away in your garage if you want to go. Retailers are having had trouble keeping both the items in stock, calling them the new toilet paper.
A similar buying frenzy happened last year with bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards when people realized that the only way they'd get outside safely for both pleasure and transportation was if they owned their own gear.
“When the whole — no one can congregate indoors — [lockdown] started people found the outdoors again [and] at that point our kayak sales went crazy,” Lightning Kayak CEO Stuart Lee told the Minneapolis Star -Tribune

Outdoors Diversity
While many Americans have decided that outdoor activities, including everything from kayaking to skiing and snowshoeing, are essential to getting through the coronavirus pandemic. However, the Black Lives Matter Movement has shed a light on how deeply rooted racism is in our society. Statistics collected from the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service show that although people of color make up nearly 40 percent of the total U.S. population, close to 70 percent of people who visit national forests, national wildlife refuges, and national parks are white, while Black people remain the most dramatically underrepresented group in these spaces.
In 2021, we must cultivate common ground among diverse communities and making outdoor recreation welcoming and accessible to all. This past year the Just Add Water Project took steps on a mission to break down barriers to the outdoors and creating the culture we want to see in the future.

A New National Park
Included with pandemic-related aid in the second federal stimulus relief package. The New River Gorge in southern West Virginia will go from being a National River to a National Park and Preserve, making it the country’s 63rd national park and 20th preserve.
The area was designated a national river in 1978. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserver Designation Act is a part of the Fiscal Year 2021 Omnibus Appropriations Bill and pandemic relief package.

Kayak, Canoe & You
An unforeseen side effect of the coronavirus pandemic and spread of COVID-19 was an explosion in participants in paddling sports and outdoor fun all around the country and even the world. Nowhere is this more true than in the rise of social media paddling. This past year on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, on any given day I've seen stories and visual media where my paddling brothers and sisters, some famous, others perhaps less so, that took me to their favorite waterways. In 2021, I will look again to them to be educated, thrilled, and mostly inspired. You can follow us at Outside Adventure to Max to hopefully do the same.

Paddle Day #152
I paddled to a new personal record of 152 paddling days in the calendar year. I started on California's Lake Natoma with Bayside Adventure Sports and finished the year with them as well on Lake Natoma.
Without a doubt we're looking forward to leaving 2020 behind while eagerly anticipating an exciting new future in 2021. As Alfred, Lord Tennyson said,“Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering ‘It will be happier.’”

Happy New Year 

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CHRISTMAS STARS

“Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childish days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth; that can transport the sailor and the traveller, thousands of miles away, back to his own fire-side and his quiet home!” ---Charles Dickens

It's officially winter now. We observed the winter solstice that happened earlier this week. For the last six months, the days have grown shorter, and the nights have grown even longer for us in the Northern Hemisphere. All of it leading up to the shortest day of the year this past Monday. In terms of daylight hours, last Monday was 5 hours, 24 minutes, shorter than the first day of summer this past June. But now that's all about to reverse. We will be adding a few moments of light added each day from sunrise to sunset.

John Taylor & Bayside Adventure Sports

 "The winter solstice has always been special to me as a barren darkness that gives birth to a verdant future beyond imagination," said American spiritual teacher and author, Gary Zukav, "A time of pain and withdrawal that produces something joyfully inconceivable, like a monarch butterfly masterfully extracting itself from the confines of its cocoon, bursting forth into unexpected glory."

As the calendar year turns and launches into a new year, there is no doubt we are hoping for some "unexpected glory." Especially after this past year of somewhat bleak darkness with this ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. But as everyone knows, it is on the darkest nights when the stars are the brightest. In the year 2020, the stars in my life as bright as ever.

In my kayaking universe, I look forward to every day on the water I can. Dan Crandall and the other superstars on Current Adventures Kayaking School and Trips have been there for guidance and encouragement all along the way. Despite Covid-19, we did have a busy summer of getting people on the water at Sly Park Paddle Rentals to enjoy the shimmer of Lake Jenkinson. We look forward to returning to our normal schedule of classes, tours, and moonlit paddles in 2021.

We had an unofficial of count over 30 paddling events with Bayside Adventure Sports this past year. Pretty good considering, Covid-19 took away a couple of months while quarantining. Of course, none of it would have been possible without our leaders John Taylor and Randy Kizer. Sure, I have some great ideas, but those two made it happen this year.
The highlights of the season were many. They included our annual Lower American River run, our camping kayaking trip to Loon Lake, and our always popular sunset and moonlit paddles on our area's lakes.

My wife, Debbie is and will always be my guiding star and inspiration. With her deep devotion to God and love for everything living great and small, I strive to be like her in mind and spirit. For the two of us, Christmas came early and twice this year. The first time in May with the birth of Maddie. And once again in October, with the birth of KDK. We are both excited to take the journey into being grandparents.

And I would like to thank our faithful readers of Outside Adventure to the Max.  I hope the future is now brighter for you all.

 Merry Christmas

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2020 IN REVIEW: PICTURES OF THE YEAR

 

I turned 60-years old this year. But in the year of Covid-19, the celebration ended abruptly. Like everyone, a lot of my plans were either canceled or put on hold. After orders to shelter in place spread across the country last spring, upending some of our favorite outdoor activities, we all soon learn to simply adapt. We made Zoom calls, hosted online events, and found ourselves saying, maybe next year when, things get back to normal, a lot.

“COVID-19 is not just a medical challenge," surmised writer Amit Ray, "But a spiritual challenge too. To defeat covid humanity need to follow the path of self-purification, compassion, nonviolence, God, and Nature.”

With the ongoing pandemic, this past year was a difficult one for us all. However, throw in a contentious election, the wave of shocking police brutality and continuing problems with race relations, along with global warming that caused havoc with West coast wildfires and hurricanes in the Southeastern part of the United States, 2020 will surely be remembered well into history. 

Lake Natoma

 Ironically the pandemic had a positive effect on the outdoors. Embracing the quarantine lifestyle and social distancing, many of us headed into our own backyards to explore again.
While kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are considered to be a form of exercise, the practice of social distancing could easily be accomplished once on the water. The only problem that occurred was limited or challenging access to public waterways. Venues were locked down in the early part of the spring due to overcrowding.

By mid-summer, while our classes with Current Adventures Kayaking School & Trips had taken a hit, the boat rentals at Sly Park Paddle Rentals were packed every weekend as folks flocked to Lake Jenkinson to escape quarantining inside. Doing outdoor activities close to home amid the pandemic was a way for people to exercise their bodies, minds, and spirit. More than once, I told our customers once at the lake to enjoy the moments on the water. Paddle towards the sound of the waterfall and forget about the rest.

Like always, the highlight of the summer was my annual no-frills expedition to Loon Lake with Bayside Adventure Sports, a Christian-based outreach group. The lake trip was a perfect mix of kayaking, camping, and great friends. Not to mention, the lake views, sunsets, and star gazing were amazing.

By Autumn, Covid-19 restrictions were relaxed, but the fire season had once again erupted in California. Ugly clouds of smoke blotted out the sun and sent us back indoors due to air quality. More trips were canceled as campgrounds were shutdown.
It seems 2020, for will for me, will be thought of more for what I didn't do. Rather, than what I did. However, I did get to run South Fork of the American and a few times and had my first down a section on of Sacramento River.

The Lower American River

It was a difficult year, as we all learn to adjust to living under the guise of the pandemic. We have mastered the art of socially distancing, we wear our masks and smile with our eyes and wave to each other instead of offering a handshake or a hug. Boy, I miss the hugs. But even so, I have witnessed inspiration and perseverance from my family, friends, co-workers, and even strangers, as they haven't given up during these Covid times. Yes, Yes, 2020 will be remembered as a very weird year when the world came to a sudden halt. But for we overcame and just kept paddling on.

So as 2020 draws to a close, I look back at some of my favorite images from this past year. 

Lake Jenkinson

North Fork of the American River

Donner Lake

Lake Jenkinson

South Fork of the American River

Sly Park Paddle Rentals on Lake Jenkinson

Loon Lake

Lake Clementine

The Lower American River with Bayside Adventure Sports

Folsom Lake

Lake Jenkinson

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BOATHOUSE DAYS, MY THIRD SUMMER ON LAKE JENKINSON

“I live in nature where everything is connected, circular. The seasons are circular. The planet is circular, and so is the planet around the sun. The course of water over the earth is circular coming down from the sky and circulating through the world to spread life and then evaporating up again. --- Elizabeth Gilbert

For the third straight summer, I worked the weekend paddle rentals at the small boathouse on the upper part of Lake Jenkinson at Sly Park Recreation Area in the Sierra foothills near Pollock Pines, California. The picturesque upper part of the lake could be a backdrop for any summer camp movie as It's lined with a border of ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and oaks, and placid cool, and clear waters. A waterfall and babbling creek only add to the lake's already lyrical appeal.
Divided by a narrow channel, the lake's larger rounded half is where you will find the swimming beach and campgrounds along with a good share of speedboats, while the upper half of the lake being smaller and narrower has more of a timeless rustic feel where canoes are still paddled with reverence.

"To know once more the joy of a paddle in my hands and a canoe slipping along the shores," wrote naturalist Sigurd Olson.
There is a certain old-fashion charm to the upper part of Lake Jenkinson. Offering a no-wake zone and a five-mph speed limit, this part of the lake a bit quieter than the larger sister lake. In other words, it's a perfect spot to paddle at any time of the day.
It's also the home of Sly Park Paddle Rental's boathouse where over the summer weekends and holidays I rented out kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards. And like I have done over the past couple of seasons, I collected a series of notes recounting occurrences of my daily routine along with my observations of my days on the lake.

June 20...The first day of summer at Sly Park on Lake Jenkinson. It's been a long time coming. We usually would have opened the boathouse weeks ago in mid-May, but the Covid-19 pandemic has kept us way till now. Pulling through the gate and seeing Lake Jenkinson through the trees, still full in this early part of the season. Cobalt blue the lake looks big and bold.

June 21...Father's Day at Sly Park. Tandem kayaks are the vehicles of choice today on the lake. Being a family day no one wanted to paddle alone.
June 26...A lot of people want to get on the water after being cooped up due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We are taking precautions however as I have to sterilize all the equipment after each use. The lake is amazingly quiet this morning as kayaks and SUP paddlers go about its waters. They look pretty carefree as they should be.

June 28...Today the wind blew straight through the narrows sending an endless parade of hissing waves with foaming caps right my way. The dock rocked and buckled underneath the unstoppable lake water as it took the full brunt of the wind. Paddlers faced a tough challenge. One couple even rolled their kayak right in front of my dock. I was helping another kayaker out of the boat when I heard them go over.
"Leave the boat and swim to the dock," I told them. Everything turned out alright but they did get all wet.

“A lake carries you into recesses of feeling otherwise impenetrable,” wrote William Wordsworth. In this Covid-19 era, we certainly all need to stay physically active to keep your minds and bodies healthy. This summer, the lake, and park offered that after opening up, as folks found a way to relieve stress, get some fresh air, and paddle around the water, all while practicing social distancing. For the most part, staying at least 6-feet apart was pretty easy once leaving the dock and getting on the water.
For me, it was also energizing, to see families enjoy the perks and pleasures of their time on the water and all while inspiring new generations to appreciate the natural world around us.

July 2...Off at the start of my five-day holiday week. The lake looks ready even though California, rightly so, is running scared again with new Covid-19 closings. I look forward to when the threat of Covid-19 is just a memory.

July 4...The lake is fair and mild this morning as I wait for folks to arrive. No wind and clear skies. We couldn't have asked for a better forth. the fireworks around the region are canceled this year because of the Covid-19 pandemic, but last night's full moon made up for it all. It was a glorious sight to behold.
I did have the time to paddle up to the waterfall finally, the night before last. I got there near dusk as the moon was rising over the trees. I had beached my kayak under the babble of the creek from where I heard the rushing sound of the falls. It's always a popular spot and a must-see for the people visiting the park, but that night to my surprise no one else was there except me to experience its wonder.

July 6...No forceful stroke needed. Just be at ease. it's the same for my customers. I tell them once on the lake, try to forget about time. Only worry about safety and don't think about the rest. Enjoy the moments on the water. Relax and paddle to the waterfall. Hike to its sound and enjoy watching the water tumble down.

July 18...My busy day starts right at 9 AM followed by another active crossover at noon. Another big-time is at 2 PM, and then when everyone returns their rented boats at the end of the day. My dock is empty and when they all return the boats float everywhere waiting to be put away for the evening.

“A lot of us are working harder than we want, at things we don’t like to do," wrote author Bradford Angier, "Why? In order to afford the sort of existence we don’t care to live.”
Arriving at the boathouse before 8 AM and staying late into the evening, I'm usually busy throughout the day helping folks safely get in and out of the boats. For those who haven't heard my speech, it goes something like this when exiting the kayak.
Don't stand in the boat. Kick your feet over the side of the kayak and on to the ladder. Now hold the ladder rails with both hands and pull yourself up. Remember the ladder is stable the boat is not.
It can be a busy day at times, however, the fringe benefits to my solitude-seeking adventuresome soul is always a paddle grab away when the day is through.

July 24...The light was fading fast. I was the only out on the lake. the half-moon was glimmers off the water. as paddled up the creek toward the waterfall in the twilight. It's quiet and dark. I kayaked up toward the creeks rocky channel. It's July now and the lake is down considerably since Spring and the hike to the falls is much longer now.

July 31...I saw a woman struggling with one of our canoes that she was out of. She yells for help. I quickly clear my dock and swim to her and the canoe. When I reach her I tell her to not worry about the canoe and swim to shore. She doesn't. So I tell her to hang on to the canoe as I swim them both to shore only 15 feet away. When I get her to shore, I realize she had been drinking.

August 1...The thing about moonlight paddles is waiting for the moon.

August 2...It's always a treat to send out a family on their first canoe adventure. It and age-old experience. Dad will take the stern and Mom will man the bow. The kids and dog fill the gunnels. They are all nervous and a little excited sitting in the boat for the first time. For some its a whole new experience for others, it brings back all their memories of summer camp.

Along with the pandemic, as we all know California is dealing with devastating wildfires again this year. It's not uncommon in these last weeks to have a heavy shadow of smoke to fill the lake valley producing an eerie orange glow both at dawn and dusk.
The peaceful silence of the lake has also been rudely interrupted as masticator thins excess growth that can fuel wildfires across the lake kicking up a cloud of dust that hovers in the trees and over the water's surface.
Rain is uncommon this time of year, but the lake did welcome a shower between the smoke and the dust of the hot summer.

August 7...People have dropped three cellphones so far this season when getting out of the kayak. They have them on their lap and forget them when they climb out of the boat. To their horror and disbelief, they watch as their phone plops into the water and sinks to the bottom. Today I was able to jump and retrieve it for them.

August 8...The big excitement of the day was when the Cal-Fire helicopter dropped in over the lake. There was a fire nearby and the fire crews deployed from the beach.

August 14...The tranquility of the lake was suspended today as crews were using a masticator across the lake. It's very loud and obtrusive. In the late afternoon, the wind blew the dock out of place.

August 16...Wacky weather indeed. Today we were soaked with a mid-morning rain shower as boaters were caught out in the rain. They loved it. It was a cool refreshing treat, away from the oppressive heat we have been subjected to. The paddlers laughed it off as they found joy in the rain.

August 22...A smokey day at Sly Park. I lost sight of the trees across the lake from the boathouse. While at the end of the day the sun appeared to be a red ball looming over the lake.

"Autumn comes with warning," wrote Sigrud Olson, "At a time when lush fruitful days of midsummer are beginning to wane." It's the same at Lake Jenkinson. There is little fanfare to the apprehension of autumn. Some will close out the summer with Labor Day, this year just hoping to go back to some sort of normal routine. While others, like me, hope to linger in the Indian summer just a bit longer.

August 28...There is a touch of fall in the air as a morning mist hangs over the lake. Unlike the smoke and dust, it's more of a welcome sight.

September 4...It's my last Friday of the season. From now I'll only be open on Saturdays and Sundays. Yep, the summer season is coming to an end.

We're not quite ready to call it a season. As long as people keep coming and the weather stays nice, we'll be keeping Sly Park Paddle Rentals open Saturday and Sundays into September.

If you want to go on a canoe or kayak trip at Sly Park contact:
Current Adventures Kayak School and Trips 
PHONE: 530-333-9115 or Toll-Free: 888-452-9254
FAX: 530-333-1291
USPS: Current Adventures, P.O. Box 828, Lotus, CA 95651
info@currentadventures.com
owner Dan Crandall dan@kayaking.com

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