Cosumnes River, trip rated L1 (explained below)

Address: 13501 Franklin Blvd. Galt, CA 95632

Limited number of paddlers: 15
No inflatables, folding boats or SUP's. Minimum length 9 feet.

Arrive at 9:30 am, on the water by 10:30 am. Allow time to unload and get your boat to the water. Long distance (350 yards, about 0.25 miles) to the dock, bring wheels you will need them!

This will be an L1 easy paddle for beginners and experienced seniors who desire a slow paced paddle of about 6 miles round trip. Canoes and recreational kayaks are appropriate. You need basic paddling skills, able to paddle at an easy pace for an hour without rest. Bring your lunch and something to sit on at lunch. Meet in the large parking lot. Restroom - no drinking water

This is the last remaining major Sierra Nevada stream system without significant water impoundments. The sloughs and marshes at the confluence with the Molkelumne River together with the adjoining hardwood and riparian vegetation, virtually uninfluenced by flood control measures, comprise an important and unique natural area. The largest remaining stand of valley oak exists in this area, and the lower Cosumnes is also an important waterfowl wintering area for many species and is of importance to the greater sandhill crane. Some of the last original Central Valley riparian habitat is preserved in this lovely area. Paddle through narrow, quiet tree lined channels. Otters and beavers are often seen as are Sandhill Cranes and other birds. Binoculars are recommended.

PLEASE READ THIS: The organizers of this trip are not experts, not professional paddlers and do not necessarily have safety training or carry any safety equipment. Each paddler must have the training, experience and equipment required to complete this paddle safely, and must assume all personal risks. A Coast Guard approved life jacket or Personal Flotation Device must be worn by everyone while on the water.

Directions: The preserve is in the Central Valley between Sacramento and Lodi. It is just east of I-5 near Twin Cities Road, about 12 miles north of Route 12 which goes through Lodi, and about 20 miles south of Sacramento

From I-5, exit onto Twin Cities Road. Go EAST on Twin Cities Road for about 1 mile to Franklin Blvd. Turn south on Franklin Blvd and continue for about 1.6 miles to the Preserve parking lot. Toilets located in parking area. Long walk to put-in from car, bring wheels.

Rain or strong winds may cancel. Be sure to check your email for updates and information regarding this trip.

This trip is sponsored by MARIN CANOE AND KAYAK CLUB

Trip Rating L1 explained
This trip is good for Beginners or experienced senior paddlers wanting flat water with light breeze within swimming distance to shore, no current and waves less than 4 inches. Total distance 5 to 7 miles with a short break for snacks or lunch. Paddlers should be able to enter and exit their boat unassisted from shore or boat dock and have a Forward and Reverse stroke. All types of boats are welcome, paddlers should be able to maintain a 2 mph pace for up to 1/2 hour.

Level 1 Paddlers plan to paddle only in calm, protected area, such as lakes, lazy rivers, sloughs, paddling near the beach and not actually go anywhere or “touring.” If the wind begins to blow, you plan to head for shore. You do not wish to do deepwater rescues, so your safety depends on staying within easy swimming distance of easily accessible shorelines.