Greetings fellow paddlers,
It was originally expected to be sunny with clear skies and 80 degrees on Saturday. I’m not concerned with light rain, but thunderstorms are now likely enough we should move it to Sunday.
Proposed schedule for Sunday:
Early paddle 1:30 to 4:30
Sunset paddle 5:30 to 8:45
I will confirm Saturday evening. Please let me know if you see weather forecasts that would put this window in doubt.
I’m still game for a bite afterward, but no worries if you can’t make it with our change to Sunday evening.
When you sign-up, do not assume there is no room if there are already 10 people signed up. Get on the waiting list and email me because some attendees are planning to only attend one session. You may be able to bring a few guests, but please email me in advance for approval so the size of our group stays manageable. I will email, post discussions and/or update the event to keep everyone current and post any unforeseen changes to the weather, etc. Please check back periodically for updates and let me know if you won't be able to attend. To help make things run smoothly, please answer the questions posed when you sign up.
Make sure you bring what you need on the day of our paddle. This list will be different for everyone, but here are some things to consider: Water, food/snacks, sunscreen, kayak lights, flashlight, flashlight that straps on head, binoculars (there are lots of Blue Herons, turtles, etc), camera, waterproof phone float, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, etc.
This kayak event will be perfect for all levels of kayaker. We will set a leisurely pace and only pick it up if everyone is wanting to cover more distance. I will be planning more aggressive paddles in the future. Please arrive with plenty of time to be ready for a timely launch. I don't want to leave anyone behind, but in fairness to the group, we will need to set out on time.
We will be launching out of the Gar Creek -Kayak only- launch site. There will be plenty of parking and a porta potty available on site.
You can find the launch site below:
Latta's Gar Creek Kayak Launch Coordinates:
35.34951900, -80.92423500
Copy and paste coordinates into your web browser and select “map” to get a map and directions to the exact location.
You can pull up this link for a map of Latta Preserve:
https://izbnc.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Latta-NP-Brochure-and-Map-small.pdf
Once you turn onto Sample Rd. off Beatties Ford Rd., you will pass North Canoe Access Rd. on your right and you should prepare to turn left further down onto Gar Creek Access Rd. Follow Gar Creek Access Rd. into the parking lot at the launch location. When you arrive, look out for a Honda Civic with a Charlotte 49ers sports flag proudly extending from a window. I should be nearby with my orange or red kayak, or nearby on the water. If there are multiple vehicles waving a Charlotte 49ers team flag, I appologize for the confusion and it’s a highly unlikely scenario; but thank you in advance to any paddler who makes my day! Go Niners!
The late group should be on the road by 9 to 9:30pm and must be out of the park 90 to 120 minutes after sunset. The gate will close to those trying to enter the park around dusk, but it automatically opens from the inside when your car approaches to exit. I did speak to a park representative who confirmed this and I've never had trouble leaving after dark. They just don't want any campers. There are several restaurants around the area open until 11pm for anyone interested. We can discuss grabbing a bite and your favorite tasty beverage among those paddlers who stay ‘till the end.
Feel free to start a discussion or email me with any suggestions or concerns. I'm very much looking forward to getting out on the water with everyone!
Frank
Disclaimer: By participating in this voluntary group you expressly waive any and all claims that could arise from any of the activities planned to include travel to and from and during the trip and to understand the organizer and assistant organizer or event host do not assume liability for personal injuries, death, destruction or loss of personal property. When you RSVP yes to attend an event, or participate in the group, you and your guests expressly waive any and all such claims against each and every other member in the group, including without limitation any and all claims against the group organizer or assistant organizers or event hosts.
