Paddle lower Juniper Creek in Ocala National Forest round trip to Lake George
Details
THIS EVENT IS FOR STRONG INTERMEDIATE PADDLERS.
This roughly six-mile round trip paddle puts in at the neat little launch area in Ocala National Forest on Rte 19. While this is a diverse and enjoyable paddle, it has its challenges. We start off downstream over a clear sandy bottom, but flooding from past hurricanes has shifted part of the stream.
We will have to get out and tow our yaks (not carry) for about 250 yards or more over a stretch of water only about 3 inches deep. You should have a bow line on your yak. We will repeat this on the return leg of our journey.
We will find ourselves in a small lagoon. From the lagoon we enter a secret stream hidden under palms and wax myrtle to paddle Little Juniper Creek. There we will encounter a fallen oak which takes some pushing and pulling and maneuvering to get through its branches. Eventually the stream opens up to a sweeping panorama of beautiful Lake George.
Parking is very limited at the launch, so we are keeping the total at 8, although I don't expect many sign-ups due to the extra effort required for this outing.
AGAIN, IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT THERE IS ADDITIONAL EFFORT REQUIRED FOR THIS PADDLE DUE TO THE VERY SHALLOW SECTION OF STREAM AND PICKING OUR WAY THROUGH THE FALLEN OAK.
Bring a snack and something to drink as we will take a short break. A portion of the return paddle some will find challenging due to the current, so if you are not in good physical shape this paddle is not for you. This is for experienced intermediate paddlers.
INTERMEDIATE PADDLER RATING: Intermediate paddlers will have their own kayak and gear. They are comfortable paddling up to ten miles. They are capable of paddling against light currents in streams and rivers and lake crossings with light to moderate waves. They are capable of assisting in water rescues.
There is a decent toilet available on site, there are no kayak rentals. Bring a hat and your best sunglasses, we'll be paddling toward the morning sun on Juniper. Arrive at 8:30, we'll launch at 9:00 am
You must sign up both on Meetup and the Volusia-Flagler Sierra Club website. Please remember to e-sign the waiver on Sierra. Go to:
https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=701Po00001HbcfEIAR
To find out more about or join the Volusia-Flagler Sierra Club go to:
https://www.sierraclub.org/florida/volusia-flagler