2001 Saltwater Trip Schedule

Contributions from Washington Kayak Club
and Seattle Sea Kayak Club members

This list doesn’t contain leader names and phone numbers, partly to protect their privacy. All club members receive a complete trip list. Participation in any of these trips requires membership in SSKC or another local club with which we share reciprocal trip scheduling. Members may also bring guests on trips with the leader’s permission.

Before signing up for a trip, be sure to read the Trip Participant Responsibilities, the Trip Classification System, and the Recommended Equipment List.

Date

Skill Level

Description

2/6
Sat

II

LAKE DIABLO – FROZEN WATERFALL TOUR.   Paddle to Ross Dam through the canyon searching for frozen waterfalls. Wetsuit recommended.

3/9
Fri

II

FULL MOON in MARCH.  Paddle around Lake Washington shoreline at night.  Launch from Houghton Beach in Kirkland, at 6:45 pm.  Bring all safety gear and lights for boat.

3/10
Sat

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.   Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).  Contact:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

3/11
Sun

II

SEAHURST to FAUNTERLOY.  Launch at Seahurst County Park, have lunch on Beach at Lincoln Park and return.  Contact:  maamfree@get.net

3/17
Sat

III

MAURY ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION.  Follow the ebb out of Quartermaster Harbor, up East Passage, and back to the "portage".  Possible wind and/or current at Pt. Robinson.  12 miles.

3/24
Sat

IV

NISQUALLY RIVER – YELM POWER PLANT to LUHR BEACH.  This trip is packed with variety.  Start out on a swift gravel bar river, deep in a canyon and watch the scenery and river conditions gradually change to tidal marshes and open water.  Length is 12 miles (optional take out at 8 miles).   Car shuttle, river skills and wet suit or dry suit required.  Date subject to change due to flow level.

3/31
Sat

II

DABOB BAY OYSTER FEST.   Launch at Point Whitney Shellfish Lab.  Gather oysters on a minus tide at Tabook Point or Red Bluff (depending on the wind).  Roast em and/or eat em raw (tabasco optional).  Shellfish permit required.  Up to 8 miles.  Contact: blairs@w-link.net

3/31-4/8

 

NORTHWEST OUTDOOR CENTER BOAT SALE.  Annual Spring Sale at NWOC, 15% off new gear and boats (both in stock and ordered). Paddling information available.

4/1
Sun

I

MERCER SLOUGH.  Celebrate daylight savings time birding on Mercer Slough. Expect green herons, and see cliff swallow nests on the I-90 overpass.  Launch at 2 pm.  Limit 12.

4/7
Sat

III

ANDERSON ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION.  Launch from Luhr Beach with lunch on Eagle Island. About 14 NM.  Requires an Access Stewardship decal to launch and park at Luhr Beach boat ramp. 

4/8
Sun

II

FULL MOON in APRIL.  Paddle around Lake Washington shoreline at night.  Launch from Matthews Beach in Seattle, at 7:00 pm.  Dress warmly.  Bring all safety gear and lights for boat.

4/9-10
Mon-Tue

II-III

JONES ISLAND OVERNIGHT.  Either wheel on at Anacortes and ride the ferry to Friday Harbor or drive on ferry to Orcas Island and drive to Deer Harbor.  Catch the afternoon flood to Jones and camp.  Stop at Yellow Island and explore the Wasp Islands on the return.   Contact:  kpteicher@earthlink.net

4/14
Sat

II

EAGLE ISLAND.  Launch at Steilacoom, have lunch on Eagle Island and return.  Contact:  maamfree@get.net

4/15
Sun

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.  Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).  Contact:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

4/20
Fri

 

WWTA FUNDRAISING AUCTION.  Mark April 20, 2001 on your calendar and join us for food and fun on the water.  This year the auction dinner will be held on the Skansonia Ferry. This wonderful venue is a former ferry that has been converted into a fabulous restaurant that floats atop the waters of Lake Union.  The event begins at 7:00pm, cost $45 per person.  Food, door prizes, silent auction.  Register early.

4/21
Sat

II

SKAGIT RIVER ESTUARY.  Float lower Skagit River through estuary & Swinomish Channel to La Conner, with possible visit to Goat Island's gunnery emplacements.  Contact:  mpt2kayak@aol.com

4/21
Sat

II

INDIAN and MARROWSTONE ISLAND.  A birding paddle.  Bring you binoculars to see who's passing through during spring migration. Launch from Fort Flagler.   Paddle 5-6 miles in Kilisut Harbor while stopping to identify birds.  Contact:  kconant@sttl.uswest.net

4/21
Sat

III

MAURY ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION. Start and end at Portage. Paddle East passage past the Point Robinson lighthouse, finish in protected Quartermaster Harbor. Approx. 12 miles. Optional dinner at restaurant on Vashon Island.  dcivic@yahoo.com

4/22
Sun

I

SAMMAMISH SLOUGH.  A slow-paced paddle down the slough, 13 miles.  Launch near Marymoor Park, paddle to Kenmore.  Car shuttle necessary.

4/22
Sun

II

FOX ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION.   A south sound paddle on Earth Day to get out and stretch those paddling muscle.  About 12 miles.

4/22
Sun

III

KINGSTON to POULSBO.  This trip requires a car shuttle and early meet time of 9:30 am.  Launch from Kingston Ferry terminal and paddle to Suquamish.  Wait for the max flood to take us through Agate Pass.  From there get pushed into Liberty Bay and set our sights for Poulsbo.  16nm trip.  Wet or dry suit required.  Contact: drice@olypen.com or dclouser8@earthlink.net.

4/22
Sun

 

SPRING BOAT SWAP.  Sell your used canoes or kayaks at this parking lot sale.  Bring your own boats to sell.  Good deals on used boats. Noon-4pm at PWS parking lot.

4/28
Sat

II

SAMISH BAY.  Launch from Larrabee State Park, near Bellingham.  Limit 6.  Contact:  christopher.g.johnson@home.com,

4/28
Sat

II

BROWNS POINT.  Junk yard dog paddle.  Explore the old ships in Commencement Bay.  Contact:  seakayaker@qwest.net

4/28
Sat

II+

KEY PENINSULA.   Experience the Key Peninsula (South Sound) from the water.  Launch from Joemma State Park, around Devil's Head, through Pitt Passage, and end at  Penrose State Park.  Approx: 12 miles. 

4/28-29
Sat-Sun

 

12th ANNUAL SEATTLE PADDLE FEST WEEKEND.  Come down to Stan Sayres Park and check out the canoes and kayaks.  This is a great opportunity to paddle a wide variety of different boats.  Saturday is Canoe Day, Sunday is Kayak Day.  10:00 – 4:00 pm.  Cost $10 per person.   Profits donated to WWTA and Puget Soundkeeper Alliance.

4/29
Sun

II

WHIDBEY WHALE WATCHING.   Every year Gray whales return to Saratoga Passage on the north side of Whidbey Island, to feed in the shallow coastal waters.  Launch from Langley small boat harbor, and paddle along the coast to whale watch. Expect 3-4 hours on the water, with breaks and lunch.  Contact:  dkfreed@whidbey.com

5/3
Thur

I

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – ENATAI BEACH.  Two hours of exercise fun and relaxation. Launch is under the I-90 bridge in Bellevue. Note: this trip was originally scheduled for May 2.

5/4-6
Fri-Sun

III

JONES ISLAND, San Juans.  Friday we'll paddle from Deer Harbor Marina on Orcas to our campsite on Jones. Saturday will be spent exploring the Wasp Island group, returning to a restful campfire.  Let's beat the summer crowds. I have it on good authority that this is the month all the spring flowers are out, so bring your cameras. If you can't make this one and are also a Mountaineer, the trip will be repeated the third weekend in May!  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

5/4-6
Fri-Sun

 

ACA INSTRUCTOR DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP.  Training to take place in Port Townsend.  Contact kayak@onwatersports.com

5/5
Sat

II

BLACK RIVER.   Small easy river with very remote feel just south of Olympia. Most of this river is very Everglade-like with some moderate current in places.  Car shuttle required.  Launch to lunch and back.

5/5-20
Sat-Sun
2 weeks+

III

SEA KAYAK the CARRIBEAN – TURKS and CAICOS ISLANDS.  Come join us in exploring the aquamarine water of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the lair of pirates from days past. The islands are located between the southern Bahamas and the Dominican Republic.  Kayak from South Caicos to West Caicos. Miles of deserted white sandy beaches to explore, great snorkeling, see Jo Jo the friendly dolphin, many flamingoes and other interesting bird life.  Visit ancient Arawak and Lucayon cave sites. Trip led by veteran trip leader LeRoy Nordy.  Contact:  netic22@mindspring.com

5/6
Sun

II

BLACK RIVER.  Small easy river with very remote feel just south of Olympia. Most of this river is very Everglade-like with some moderate current in places.  Car shuttle required.

5/7
Mon

II

FULL MOON in MAY.  Paddle around Lake Washington shoreline at night.  Launch from Matthews Beach in Seattle, at 7:00 pm.  Dress warmly.  Bring all safety gear and lights for boat.

5/12
Sat

III

ANDERSON ISLAND.  Circumnavigate this island in the south sound.  Approximately 13 miles.

5/12-13
Sat/Sun

II

BLAKE ISLAND.  Paddle to Blake Island, leaving from Southworth ferry dock Saturday afternoon. Paddle to North point and camp. Take in the show at Tillicum Village for dinner.  Paddle back to Southworth Sunday morning.  Contact:  kpteicher@earthlink.net

5/13
Sun

III

BREMERTON to WINSLOW.  Wheel on the ferry in Seattle, launch in Bremerton and ride the ebb up through Rich Passage to Winslow.  Back to Seattle on the ferry.  Definite current, probable wind. About 12 miles.  

5/16
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE - HOUGHTON BEACH.  Relieve stress!  Join us in Kirkland for an evening paddle.

5/19
Sat

II

STEILACOOM BAKEOFF/POTLUCK.  Paddle from Sunnyside Beach Park to Saltars Point. Kayakers are invited to paddle, then participate in the cookoff.   Bring camp stoves to prepare dishes on site.  Prizes awarded.

5/19-20
Sat-Sun

III-IV

SAN JUAN CHALLENGE.  Anacortes is the site for this exciting two day, 40 mile sea kayak race.  A mini 14 mile challenge race is also held.  Starts from Cap Sante park in Anacortes.   Check out www.sjcraceandexpo.org for more info.

5/18-20
Fri-Sun

 

ACA INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION EXAM.  Training to take place in Port Townsend.  Contact kayak@onwatersports.com

5/19
Sat

II

NORTH CASE INLET.  Launch at Vaughn Bay.  Explore shoreline of Stretch and Reach islands.  Contact:  maamfree@gte.net

5/19
Sat

II+

McMICKEN ISLAND.  Launch at R.F. Kennedy State Park. Paddle around Heron Island, McMicken Island and return.  6-8 miles.  Contact:  kconant@sttl.uswest.net

5/19-20
Sat/Sun

III

SEA KAYAK YAKIMA CANYON.   Launch at Ringer Road, float the scenic canyon to the Roza takeout; possible overnight at Red's Campground and Sunday hike up Umtanum Canyon in search of wildflowers; 17 river miles. Contact:  blairs@w-link.net

5/24
Thur

I

CUTTS ISLAND CRAB and CLAM BAKE POTLUCK.  Paddle to Cutts Island for gathering clams and crab and cook out on the beach. Bring potluck lunch. Good time for bottom watching with the low tide.  Shellfish license required for gathering.

5/27
Sun

II-IV

GIG HARBOR SUNDAY.  Paddle, play and practice. First of a five part series of Sunday paddles, all departing from Gig Harbor.  Will paddle, work on skills, or just have fun.  Optional breakfast/dinner.  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

5/27
Sun

 

SKI TO SEA RACE.  This team race is a relay race open to all amateur competitors.  The relay consists of Cross Country Skiing, Downhill Skiing, Running, Biking, Canoeing, Mountain Biking and Sea Kayaking.  The team consists of one per person for each event, except for the canoe leg (2 paddlers per canoe).  For more info:  www.bellingham.com/skitosea  Contact:  chamber@bellingham.com

6/5
Tue

II

FULL MOON in JUNE.  Paddle around Lake Washington shoreline at night.  Launch from Magneson Park at Sand Point NAS.  Bring all safety gear and lights for boat.

6/6
Wed

II

FULL MOON ON COMMENCEMENT BAY.  Paddle to dinner at a shoreline restaurant and paddle back by moonlight.

6/9
Sat

II

BROWNS POINT.  A Point to Point paddle.  Launch from Browns Point, paddle  to Dash Point.  Contact  seakayaker@qwest.net

6/9-23
Sat-Sat
2 weeks

III-IV

GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK, ALASKA.   Ever wish that you could kayak in a wilderness so remote and unspoiled that you would be constantly inspired by its magnificence? Then join us for a trip to one of the most beautiful paddling destinations in the world. In the pristine and unspoiled inlets of Glacier Bay, you can find solitude among calving glaciers, virgin forests, and towering peaks. Sightings of whales, bear, eagles, seals, moose, wolves, and mountain goats are common. Due to planning considerations and logistic requirements, please sign up immediately when the schedule comes out and be prepared with a time and monetary commitment. Limit 6 to 8 paddlers. Park information available: www.nps.gov/glba   Email: bobklewitz@msn.com

6/13
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – MT. BAKER BEACH.   Two hours of exercise, relaxation and camaraderie.  Launch is on West side of Lake Washington, south of I-90.

6/15-17
Fri-Sun

 

BASIC SEA KAYAK CLASS.  Learn the basics of sea kayaking including rescues, strokes, bracing, navigation for just $80.  Weekend training at Bowman Bay State Park.  Must provide your own boat with floatation, drysuit, paddle, PFD and camping gear. Questions:  Call Dede @ 206-935-3960.  Signups: Dale.Tangeman@pss.boeing.com

6/17
Sat

III

CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF BAINBRIDGE ISLAND.   Paddle approximately 24 miles. Mild currents, steady, non-rushed pace.  Surprisingly do-able unless the wind gods are against us.  Contact:  jleitch@sellingseattle.com

6/16-17
Sat-Sun

II-III

CIRCUMNAVIGATE VASHON ISLAND.  A clockwise paddle around the island.  Approximately 13 miles each day. Start at isthmus near Burton, camp at Lisabuela water trails site. Next day complete the loop.  Contact: lroubik@site7000.com

6/20
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – LAKE UNION.   Launch at Lake Union, then check out the baby ducks as we paddle through the arboretum.

6/20-24
Wed-Sun

III

BARKELEY SOUND.  Vancouver Island photo trip during the lowest tides of the year.  Morning tide pooling, afternoon paddling.  Wetsuit/drysuit required.  Limit 6. Contact: gluhm@eskimo.com

6/23-24
Sat-Sun

II-III

HENRY ISLAND.  Come up to the San Juans for a weekend of paddling.   A day paddle around Henry Island, and Posey Island on Saturday, then time permitting, explore other areas on Sunday.   Camping or cabin space available.  Allow enough travel time to drive on Anacortes Ferry.  Limit 8.

6/24
Sun

II-IV

GIG HARBOR SUNDAY.  Another opportunity to play and practice.  Bring your kayaking questions.  Optional breakfast/dinner.  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

6/30
Sat

II

HORSEHEAD BAY to CUTTS ISLAND.  Launch at 9 a.m.  Look for moon snails and their nests.  Beachcombing time and picnic included.  Limit 10.

6/30
Sat

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.   Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).  Contact:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

7/1
Sun

II

SKAGIT BAY.  Launch at Cornet Bay and paddle to Hope or Skagit Island for lunch, and return.  Contact:  mpt2kayak@aol.com

7/5
Thur

II

FULL MOON PADDLE.  Leader needed

7/10-15
Tue-Sun

II

LOPEZ ISLAND.  Car camp at Spencer spit state park and spend leisurely days paddling the coves and little islands off Lopez.  Limit 6.

7/13-15
Fri-Sun

 

BASIC SEA KAYAK CLASS.  Learn the basics of sea kayaking including rescues, strokes, bracing, navigation for just $80.  Weekend training at Bowman Bay State Park.  Must provide your own boat with floatation, drysuit, paddle, PFD and camping gear. Questions:  Call Dede @ 206-935-3960.  Signups: Dale.Tangeman@pss.boeing.com

7/14-15
Sat-Sun

II+-III

NISQUALLY DELTA and ANDERSON ISLAND.  Launch into the Nisqually Delta.  Paddle across to Anderson Island and camp at the water trials site.  Next morning circumnavigate Anderson Island or explore the Nisqually Delta/McCalister Creek (depending on weather).   Possible wind/waves.  Contact:  algee73@hotmail.com  Note: This trip is being rescheduled for sometime in August.

7/14
Sat

II

LAKE QUINAULT.  Meet at Lake Quinault and paddle around the lake. Have lunch at park.  Overnight accommodations for 6-8 available at a cabin in Copalis Beach.  Contact:  marshamalkin@qwest.net

7/20
Fri

III+

WEST SEATTLE to BLAKE ISLAND.  Depart at 6:00 pm for a daylight outbound crossing of the shipping lanes.  Have dinner on Blake island and return by midnight.  Paddle in total darkness on this moonless night.  Contact:  gb@u.washington.edu

7/21
Sat

II+

ANNUAL CRAB FEST – SADDLEBAG ISLAND.  Roundtrip paddle approx. 5 miles.  Paddle from March Point (near Anacortes) to Saddlebag Island.  Stalk the elusive Dungeness Crab.  Return to March Point for potluck crab feed. 

7/22
Sun

II-IV

GIG HARBOR SUNDAY.  The play and practice continues in south sound.  Optional breakfast/dinner.  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

7/23-8/4
Mon-Sat
2 weeks

III-IV

KYUQUOT SOUND.  Take the MV Uchuck from Gold River to Kyuquot.  Spend 7 days exploring Kyuquot sound and the Bunsby islands.  Exploratory route is weather dependent.  Wetsuit/drysuit required.  Return via MV Uchuck on 3 Aug.   Contact:  mpt2kayak@aol.com  or dchinlund@earthlink.net

8/1
Wed

II

LAKE UNION.  Enjoy an evening lake paddle form Sunnyside launch through the Montlake cut into the Arboretum area..  Contact:  mloujohnson@uwest.net

8/4
Sat

II

PORT TOWNSEND and FULL MOON PADDLE.   Explore the waterfront Port Townsend to old Fort Townsend by day.  Enjoy a full moon paddle at night.  Camping available nearby.  Contact:  whtiger@halcyon.com

8/4
Sat

II

SOUTH SOUND.  Launch at Steillacoom.  Circle Ketron Island. stop at Anderson island if conditions permit.  Contact:  maamfree@gte.net

8/4-5
Sat-Sun

III+

LUMMI ISLAND.  Launch from Lummi reservation, paddle 7 miles to DNR site and camp.  Next morning, complete the paddle around the island (13 more miles) if weather permits.  Wetsuit/drysuit required.  Possible wind, waves, and exposed outer shore.  Contact:  kconant@sttl.uswest.net or algee73@hotmail.com

8/5
Sun

II

PENN COVER on WHIDBEY ISLAND.  Launch at Captain Thomas Coupeville park and explore Coupeville's historic waterfront and the lagoons of Penn Cove.  Contact:  mloujohnson@uwest.net

8/9
Thur

II

ALKI PADDLE and PIZZA.   Evening paddle from Don Armeni park to the lighthouse and back followed by pizza at Pegasus.  Contact:  dcivic@yahoo.com

8/10-13
Fri-Mon

III-IV

STUART ISLAND.   Join us for a long weekend in this "wildest" jewel of the San Juan Islands, which is still very much in its original, natural state. Wheel kayaks onto a Friday morning ferry from Anacortes.  Launch from Friday Harbor, then paddle up the east coast of San Juan Island and spend the first night at the Cascadia Marine Trail campsite on Posey Island (north tip of San Juan Island).  Saturday, paddle to Stuart Island and camp at the Cascadia Marine Trail campsite at Reid Harbor for two nights.  Paddle day trips near and around Stuart Island, and return to Friday Harbor on Monday. Experienced paddlers only. Wheels required. Contact:  bobklewitz@msn.com

8/11
Sat

II+

HENDERSON INLET.  Launch at Boston Harbor, near Olympia and paddle to Henderson inlet about 8 miles round trip.  See lots of seals and fine scenery.  Pleasant launch site, with walking possibilities.  Contact:  wordtrip@earthlink.net

8/11-12
Sat-Sun

II-III

HOPE ISLAND (SOUTH SOUND).  Put in at Shelton and ride the current out Hammersly inlet, or Launch north of Squaxin island and circumnavigate the island.  Camp at WWT site on Hope island.  Total mileage is 14-20 miles.  Contact: algee72@hotmail.com

8/18-19
Sat-Sun

II-IV

PACIFIC BEACH SURF FEST.  Babbette's Annual Sun and Surf Frolic at Pacific Beach State Park.  Sun, sand and surf to enjoy. Potluck feast Sat night.  Wine and candlelight. Brown pelicans and wildlife (besides the crazy wave surfers) on the beach. Good for beginners to advanced surfers.  Creek to paddle if you don’t want to surf.  Wetsuit/drysuit/helmet required for surfing, both whitewater and sea kayaks.   Call Reservations NW (800)452-5687 for campsite. Group # 693575. Call early!

8/18-19
Sat-Sun

IV

ANACORTES to DOE ISLAND.  (East side of Orcas).   Catch the Rosario Strait flood from Washington Park north to camp on Doe Island. And return with the ebb.  Optional hot tub, plus vegetarian restaurant for dinner.  Breakfast in Doe Bay just 12 minute paddle from camp.  At least nine miles each way.  Minimum 3 knot pace and wetsuit/drysuit required.  Adverse winds against the strong current could test your paddling skills.  Contact:  wamkenz@gte.net

8/22
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – ENATAI BEACH.     Launch under I-90 bridge in Bellevue.  Join us for 2 hours of exercise, fun and relaxation.

8/23-26
Thur-Sun

III-IV

ORCAS ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION.  Launch from Gooseberry Point.  Camp at Point Doughty, Blind Island, and Doe Island.  Approximately 15 miles per day.  Limit 6.  Contact:  christopher.g.johnson@home.com.

8/26
Sun

II-IV

GIG HARBOR SUNDAY.  The 4th Gig Harbor Sunday. The water will be warmer!  Roll practice? Play!  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

8/29
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – HOUGHTON BEACH.     Launch from Kirkland.  Join us for 2 hours of exercise, fun and relaxation on Lake Washington.

8/30-9/3
Thur-Mon

IV

SOUTH PENDER ISLAND (B.C.)   Launch from Gooseberry Point.  Camp at Sucia Island, South Pender Island (2 nights), and Point Doughty.   Long paddling days with exposed crossings.  Very experienced paddlers only.  Limit 6  Contact: christopher.g.johnson@home.com.

9/1-3
Sat-Mon

II

ANNUAL KINGSTON CABIN WEEKEND, FULL MOON PADDLE.  Paddle beautiful Kitsap County waters on Sat & Sun.  Sat night potluck and full moon paddle on Sunday.  Come for one or both days.  Camping available.  Contact:  mpt2kayak@aol.com.

9/7-9
Fri-Sun

II

8th ANNUAL FALL FUNFEST at FORT FLAGLER.   Come over Friday evening for a no host dinner at Ajax Cafι, 7:30 pm.  Saturday, paddle to Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend.  Sunday paddle in the area.  Potluck Saturday night.  Stay in Army Barracks.  Must pre-register.  $18 housing fee, due by August 20.

9/8
Sat

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.   Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).  Email leader:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

9/19
Wed

II

WEDNESDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – HOUGHTON BEACH.  Launch from Kirkland.  Paddle to Juanita Bay to view the beaver and muskrats at dusk.  Return after dark. Flashlights required.

9/8-15
Sat-Sat

III

LAKE ROOSEVELT – KETTLE FALLS.  Paddle the upper portion of Lake Roosevelt, Kettle Falls to Spokane River in beautiful Eastern Washington. Paddle 55 miles "door to door".  Exploratory trips may add more miles.  Afternoon winds can test your paddling skills.  Minimum 4 kayakers needed.

9/14-16
Fri-Sun

 

WEST COAST SEA KAYAK SYMPOSIUM.  Held at Fort Warden, near town of Port Townsend, this symposium has attracted hundreds of paddlers.  Good opportunity to try new equipment, demo boats, attend seminars, meet new paddling friends. Check out web site: http://www.gopaddle.org.

9/15
Sat

III

NISQUALLY RIVER – to McALLISTER CREEK.  Run the last two miles of the river where we will encounter the only swift current on this trip.  Next paddle the Nisqualy Delta on a incoming tide then head up McAllister Creek on the flood.  Length is 8+ miles.   Car shuttle required. 

9/15-30
2 weeks

III+

SOUTH PACIFIC – TONGA.  Come join us in exploring the Ha'apai Group of the Islands of Tonga.  An archipelago of scattered coral islands, covered with lush vegetation and coconut trees, miles of white sandy beaches, great snorkeling and color tropical fish viewing in the warm turquoise colored waters.  Visit interesting native villages.  Visit the island where Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame was set adrift by Fletcher Christian and rest of the mutineers.  Contact:  alnm265@halcyon.com

9/22-23
Sat-Sun

II-IV

PACIFIC BEACH.  Attention:  Surf junkies.  Didn't get enough at Babbette's Surfest?  This will help the addiction.  Contact:  seakayaker@qwest.net

9/28-30
Fri-Sun

 

ACA INSTRUCTOR DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP.  Training to take place in Port Townsend.  Contact kayak@onwatersports.com

9/30
Sun

II-III

DUNGENESS SPIT.  Paddle 7nm round trip.  Depart 10am from Cline Spit (Dungeness Harbor) and paddle east toward the Lighthouse and round the tip of the spit – a protected seal habitat.  From there, turn around and land on the Dungeness Bay side of the spit. Complete the trip by paddling back to Cline Spit.  A $3 use fee is required per family.  Wet or dry suit required.  Contact: drice@olypen.com

10/2
Tues

II

FULL MOON PADDLE.  Meet at Golden Gardens Park in Seattle. Launch at 6:45 pm. Must have lights and all safety gear.

10/6
Sat

II

CAPITOL LAKE, OLYMPIA.  Paddle around Capitol Lake in Tumwater.  A freshwater paddle on a beautiful fall day.  Watch those spawning salmon at close range.   Call for meeting time and location.  Check out the new restaurant and feast on nachos.

10/6-7
Sat/Sun

III

CYPRESS ISLAND.  Launch at Washington Park in Anacortes, ride the flood up Rosario Strait.  Camp at Pelican Beach.  Climb Eagle Bluff on Sunday to see the fall color and then ride the ebb back home.  15 NM.  Contact:  MarllaM@AOL.com

10/11
Thur

II+

THURSDAY EVENING LAKE PADDLE – HOUGHTON BEACH.  Launch from Kirkland.  Paddle to Juanita Bay to view the beaver and muskrats at dusk.  Return after dark. Flashlights required.

10/12-14
Fri-Sun

 

ACA INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION EXAM.  Training to take place in Port Townsend.  Contact kayak@onwatersports.com

10/13
Sat

II

McALLISTER CREEK.  Search for the elusive spawning chum salmon: launch at Luhr Beach on the Nisqually Delta, ride the flood up the creek and ride the ebb back.  8 miles.  Contact:  MarllaM@AOL.com

10/13
Sat

II+

SKOKOMISH DELTA.  Paddle in the estuary on the incoming tide.  See lots of birds and marine wildlife, amid early fall colors.  About 4-5 hours out on the water.  Contact:  wordtrip@earthlink.net

10/13
Sat

II

MERCER ISLAND CIRCUMNAVIGATION.  Enjoy Lake Washington after the summer crowds have gone. Approximately 13 miles.

10/13-14
Sat-Sun

I-II

BAKER LAKE – FALL LEAVES, KAYAK and CAMPING.  Winds can create large waves on this lake.  Be prepared to paddle one way and return via car shuttle.  If weather turns bad, hot springs are nearby!  Sign up by Oct 10.

10/21
Sun

II-IV

GIG HARBOR SUNDAY.  The 5th Gig Harbor Sunday. More play and practice in the waters of south sound!  Contact:  david.d.agnew@boeing.com

10/31
Wed

II

HALLOWEEN PADDLE.  Meet at 6:30 p.m. at the ramp on Sunnyside Ave., a couple of blocks east of Gas Works Park. Wet or dry suit and lights for the boats are required. Decorate yourself and your boat as you see fit.

11/1
Thur

II

FULL MOON PADDLE.  Meet at Golden Gardens Park in Seattle. Launch at 6:45 pm. Must have lights and all safety gear.

11/3
Sat

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.   Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).   Contact:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

11/4
Sun

II

LAKE WASHINGTON.     Launch at Mount Baker Beach (south of I-90) and paddle to the Arboretum and back.

11/24
Sat

II

DUNGENESS SPIT.  Paddle Cline Spit to Dungeness Lighthouse.  Stop for lunch, then return for supper at the Three Crabs restaurant.  Dungeness Spit is a National Wildlife Reserve.  $3/launch fee per family.

11/25
Sun

III+

PROTECTION ISLAND or SEQUIM BAY (or FRESHWATER BAY).  After working off some of the Thanksgiving stuffing at Dungeness Spit with Babs Kunkle on Saturday, camp overnight at Sequim Bay State Park (or luxuriate in a motel just down the highway); circumnavigate Protection Island if the weather is calm or explore the sandspits at the entrance to Sequim Bay if not.  7 to 10 miles. Email: blairs@w-link.net

11/30
Fri

II

BLUE MOON PADDLE.  View this year's only blue moon from the water. Launch from Houghton Beach in Kirkland at 6:45 pm sharp! Must have lights and all safety gear.  Dress warmly.

12/3
Sat

II

DUWAMISH RIVER.   Paddle the industrial Duwamish River and help Puget Sound Keepers Alliance monitor the industries.  We will be watching for violations of the Clean Water Act and discharge permits while paddling with big ships and big birds (great blue Herons).   Contact:  dchinlund@earthlink.net

12/??
Early in Month

II

CHRISTMAS SHIP PADDLE – LAKE UNION.  Decorate your boats and follow the other boats behind the Christmas ship.  Wear your Santa Hat.  Lights required.   Meet at the Sunnyside Boat Ramp.

12/15
Sat

II

SWINOMISH CHANNEL.  Paddle from the Highway 20 bridge to La Connor.  Visit historic La Conner.  Car Shuttle required.

12/??
Later in Month

II

CHRISTMAS SHIP PADDLE – KIRKLAND.  Ho Ho Ho, jolly paddlers needed to accompany the Christmas Ship carolers.  Lights, antlers and jingle bells are encouraged.  Launch in Kirkland and meet the Christmas ships for the holiday concert.  Dress warm. Bring lights or glow sticks for your boat.   Call for exact meeting place.

12/30
Sun

II

YEAR END FULL MOON PADDLE.  Brave the cold and get in one more paddle this year!  Launch from Houghton Beach in Kirkland, at 6:45 pm.  Must have lights and all safety gear. Dress warmly!

2/2/2002
Sat

II-III

FROZEN WATERFALL PADDLE.  Paddle from Lake Diablo through the canyon to Ross Dam for lunch, and experience the 500 foot icicles.  Dress warmly.  Wetsuit/drysuit strongly recommended.

Revised: 17-Jul-2001