CdB Forum

CdB Whitewater Paddling Club Discussions => Paddling => Topic started by: GrahameH on January 24, 2008, 10:37:58 PM

Title: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: GrahameH on January 24, 2008, 10:37:58 PM
CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend is May 24, 2008 - May 25, 2008

CdB Palmers Weekend is the first big event of the paddling season for many CdB members.  It provides a great opportunity to practice at Palmer Rapids and a run of the classic Lower Madawaska river.  We will be camping at Jessup's Campground (across the Madawaska river from Paddler Co-op)

Location of the Jessup's Campsite:
http://www.cdb-ottawa.com/drupal/?q=node/29
(You can use the features of the map plugin to relate the location of the campground to landmarks or roads)

Look for the group of CdB paddlers, or their cars, at the campsite on Saturday afternoon.  Palmer Rapids offers an easy section of rapids to practice skills and build confidence.
 
The Lower Mad is not technically hard, but warm gear for a long day in the water is necessary.

For those of you just coming early Sunday morning, logistical information will be posted shortly.
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: Jeremy Poulin on April 07, 2008, 08:35:09 AM
Ummmm
Good to know, lol.
More info plz
thanks
later
jer
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: GrahameH on April 21, 2008, 08:06:45 PM
Traditional Palmerfest Alternative Weekend
-Camping at Jessup's
-Playing on Saturday at Palmer's or Hass
-Running Lower/Snake Rapids on Sunday
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 06, 2008, 06:10:29 PM

I will come if you plan on paddling at Palmers (Jessups and below) on the saturday.

I don't like playing at Hass and I refuse to drive down his road as I dented a rim on my car the two times I have been down it.

I wouldn't mine running the Lower Mad on sunday but my vehicle will not make it down those roads. So I either stay at Palmers or someone takes my big ass boat on their vehicle.

A benefit of me coming is pictures.

I will still have to figure out the money end of it as I have overspent my budget for where I am now especially on roadtrips. I am going to WV and MD the weekend after as well so I to be how you say frugal.
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: GrahameH on May 06, 2008, 07:36:11 PM
I did the forestry road with a loaded down Taurus wagon last year.  It had a little extra clearance in the back from the empty gas tank...

It's all about wheel placement!
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 06, 2008, 09:15:26 PM
I did the forestry road with a loaded down Taurus wagon last year.  It had a little extra clearance in the back from the empty gas tank...

It's all about wheel placement!

Been down that road way too many times and almost lost my oil pan and tranny ... I will never drive down that road again unless I have a big frickin truck.

The takeout road is worse ... I suspect it will really suck big time this year with the extra melt and flooding.
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: KellyM on May 06, 2008, 09:57:04 PM
I can only do the Saturday. I'd be good with heading down very early Saturday morning, back in the evening. Anyone else doing the same? No racks on my vehicle, but as well as kicking in on the gas, $ I could share the driving.

KellyM
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: LouisD on May 16, 2008, 02:26:57 PM
I have something scheduled for the early Saturday, but would like to join for Sunday.
My Subaru should be able to take that dirt road again as well.
Might even be able to join Saturday late afternoon.

So, Grahame, we'll need rendez-vous points/times, etc.

Anyone else looking at what I am considering?
Willing to car pool?

LD
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: GrahameH on May 16, 2008, 03:05:05 PM
Great!  The lower mad should be a good run if the level do what is expected.
Rendez-vous points/times will be confirmed later, but expect to meet at the "Hometown Restaurant" in Palmer Rapids at 10am Sunday if you're just coming for the river run.
The easiest thing to do is to camp saturday night to avoid the long drive in the morning.
Perhaps someone who's organized this trip before could fill in some information for the regular CdB format?
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: viking on May 18, 2008, 11:00:46 AM
Hi folks,

I can head down on Friday or Saturday and I'm willing to take a person or two (and their boats). Let me know....

Does the group meet before heading? or does everyone just meet at Jessup's?


Cheers,

Chris
613-913-8757
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: GrahameH on May 18, 2008, 08:14:07 PM
It's easiest for everyone to just meet at Jessup's Campground - I try to take a different route there everytime I go :) 
Grifith to Quadville through the loging roads is a bad idea...
Title: directions - from Ottawa
Post by: Larry W on May 18, 2008, 09:28:46 PM
http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=17344556860716392384,45.324958,-77.531397&saddr=ottawa&daddr=Entrance+to+Jessop's+Campground+%4045.32495823459429,-77.53139734268188&mra=pi&mrcr=0&sll=45.327319,-77.53129&sspn=0.018284,0.032144&ie=UTF8&z=9 (http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=17344556860716392384,45.324958,-77.531397&saddr=ottawa&daddr=Entrance+to+Jessop's+Campground+%4045.32495823459429,-77.53139734268188&mra=pi&mrcr=0&sll=45.327319,-77.53129&sspn=0.018284,0.032144&ie=UTF8&z=9)

have fun with google maps

Larry
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 19, 2008, 09:04:55 PM
Yo Prez,

Whats the chance you will be at Hass on the saturday if I decide to drive up with camera in hand?
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: ChristianG on May 20, 2008, 03:01:13 PM
Louis, I have to drive someone to the airport Saturday at 7am... When would you be going to the Madawaska river? I have a new boat to try... Let me know.

--Christian.


I have something scheduled for the early Saturday, but would like to join for Sunday.
My Subaru should be able to take that dirt road again as well.
Might even be able to join Saturday late afternoon.

So, Grahame, we'll need rendez-vous points/times, etc.

Anyone else looking at what I am considering?
Willing to car pool?

LD
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: LouisD on May 20, 2008, 11:09:39 PM
Salut Dr Chris,

My activity on Sat should take me up to mid afternoon.

LD
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend - rides offered
Post by: Sean on May 21, 2008, 11:36:14 AM
Hi All,

Tibor and I will be going to Palmer's this weekend and are planning to leave on Saturday morning, and will probably camp overnight.

This is a first trip for both of us, so we're looking for some more info on what the Saturday features and the Sunday run are like.  Then, we'll decide on the Sunday river-run or not.

We have room for 3 more boats and 3 more people, and we'll carpool from Kanata, probably the Eagleson park-and-ride, not Champlain.

Starting time has not yet been determined.

Please reply directly to me and I'll post when we're full-up.

PM me or e-mail at sean.okeefe@simplysurf.net

Sean


Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend - rides offered
Post by: Larry W on May 21, 2008, 06:28:37 PM

This is a first trip for both of us, so we're looking for some more info on what the Saturday features and the Sunday run are like.  Then, we'll decide on the Sunday river-run or not.

Sean


For those that are new to this event ... Saturday offers up whatever you decide to do. Generally there are enough experience club members that are around to help out on the river. Palmers rapids ... Class III rapids would be stretching it ... offers enough for an afternoon of phaffing about on the water ... eddy hopping, rolling practice, ferries, a short down river section... and hopefully a small play feature. There might be an attempt to go to Hass hole, but that would take some encouragement as most folks rather stay and socialize with the group.

The Lower Madawaska section for Sunday offers a great opportunity to get out for the first run of the year. Class III at the most with a pool to collect a garage sale at the bottom of each set. Actually the Lower Mad used to be known for the Class V roads but have downgraded in my opinion to Class III. From what I hear the roads are passable by car ... with only a short section on the take-out road that might pose a problem. The Lower Mad is also famous for the swarm of BUGS that greet you at the takeout or Bucks (bugs) Bay or anywhere else along the way. Also the flat water section at the beginning will make this a memorable day. If the weather forecast holds true then there should be no excuse for not running the Lower Mad.

Did I say BUGS ... you have been warned.

Larry










Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 21, 2008, 06:35:30 PM
Yep ... the frickin bugs are out.

I am trying to re-work my schedule to come out and play on saturday and party that night.

Long drive for me but hey this will be my first official CDB outing.

Larry ... I will bring the break down paddle.

Christian ... I will bring the Hoss.

Don't be a bunch of wimps ... lets go to Hass Hole in the afternoon ... did I forget to mention camera ... pics!

I had a blast there last sunday in my big ass open boat.

So did Carine and Grahame and I can't remember his name but he is the cook at BeastFest.

Not sure if I will have time to be able to do the Lower Mad with you on sunday though.

The weather forecast looks great

http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/CAON0520 (http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/CAON0520)

FYI ... the takeout road for the lower still sucks for cars ... not adviseable!
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: Chris on May 21, 2008, 07:00:14 PM
Sounds like a fun weekend.

I'm new to the club and wanted to find out if this is open to everyone?  Other than transportation are there any logistics that need to be worked out before hand (e.g. camping, reservations etc.)?

I like the idea of meeting people from the club, having a day to practice/play and then do the first run of the year.

Any info would be much appreciated,
Chris
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: Larry W on May 21, 2008, 11:10:33 PM

I'm new to the club and wanted to find out if this is open to everyone?  Other than transportation are there any logistics that need to be worked out before hand (e.g. camping, reservations etc.)?


The event is open to CdB members and friends.

Reservations are not really required ... the club usually sets up in the group camping area ... on the left hand side as you drive in. I believe it is $15 for a tent or something like that, firewood $5. Camping ... well you sort of got to organize your own stuff for eats, shelter, and drinks. There is a source of drinking water at the campsite, and some smelly outhouses (bring some toilet paper), and most likely BUGS. There is a restaurant and general store in Palmer Rapids, but it would be better if you brought what you need or think you need for a weekend of camping/paddling.

Jessop's campground shouldn't be too crowded this weekend.

We usually gather for the evening around the campfire in the evening to swat mosquitoes, have a few refreshments, tell some stories, jokes and what not, and if you are musically inclined do bring a musical instrument.

Did I mention Bugs?

Larry
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: Sean on May 22, 2008, 07:34:20 AM
Do you think there'll be any bugs at this time of the year?

;-)

S
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 22, 2008, 08:53:35 AM
Yes ... trust me the blackflies are out and so are the mosquitos.

My arms look like I am a heroin addict from my last weekend at Palmer Fest.

Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend - BUGS
Post by: Larry W on May 22, 2008, 07:53:17 PM
Do you think there'll be any bugs at this time of the year?

;-)

S

It wouldn't be the same memorable experience if there weren't any bugs ...

Investing in a bug jacket or bug hat would be good advice. Hope for cool evenings since mosquitoes go into hiding at less than 11.2 deg Celsius ... at least in theory. Stay on the water most of the afternoon ... and hope for a slight breeze to keep the blackflies away.

And don't use insect repellent on those latex seals cuz the active ingredient will melt them away!!!

Larry



 
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: Chris on May 23, 2008, 08:28:43 AM
The car is out of commission for a few days...

If anyone around Westboro/Nepean is heading up for the day Saturday and is looking for someone to split the gas let me know.

Chris
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: LouisD on May 23, 2008, 10:46:34 AM
Kelly, Dr ChristianG and new Chris,

The weather forecast looks good for the weekend, but for my scheduled activity to happen Saturday I need low winds (we do a hand-launch r/c glider - HLG- event out of some Manotick sod farm) and the forecast for the winds at this point are not looking too good for Sat but much better for Sunday.
So, I might have to postpone that HLG event to Sunday and therefore would love to go kayaking Sat.

If required, we should be able to fit 4 kayaks on my roof rack, head out Saturday morning and come back late Sat.
I know Kelly needs to come back Sat as well.
The other Chrisses could leverage some other transportation back on Sunday if they want to stay longer...

I'll decide on what I do Sat around 21h00 tonight (Friday) with the latest wind predictions.

LD
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: ChristianG on May 23, 2008, 05:30:53 PM

Christian ... I will bring the Hoss.


Colin!

I forgot to let you know--I purchased Paul's Blunt, so you don't need to bring the boat (for me anyway). Plus I'm still trying to find a ride to the Madawaska... Thanks for the offer! See you.

--Christian
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: ChristianG on May 23, 2008, 05:50:32 PM
Hello everyone.

Is anyone (other than Louis maybe) wanting to go to the Madawaska, say, Saturday afternoon, camp and do the Sunday river run with the club? I am busy Saturday morning but free afterwards. Problem is, I don't have a car. But I am more than willing to pay for the gas, however. Plus I have a new boat to try... So... Anyone? Let me know. Send me a private message and we can talk.

--Christian

Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: LouisD on May 23, 2008, 10:12:05 PM
Looks like I will be picking up ChristianG Sat morning around 9h00 at Ivan's place.
And targeting a closer destination as I realized Palmer's for the day meant at least 6.5hr of driving in the same day... ???
Duhh!
LD
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: cmnypny on May 24, 2008, 07:08:22 AM
Looks like I won't be coming.

My head is pounding and I am sick.

I spent all day yesterday working in the data center and it was most likely the lack of air quality and constant noise that did me in.

See you peeps next time.
Title: Re: CdB Palmer's Rapids Weekend
Post by: dave jackson on May 24, 2008, 05:15:14 PM
Is anybody driving up tomorrow to run the lower mad from Ottawa with extra space?  My car is in the shop and my plans for tomorrow changed so I'm looking for a ride at the last minute. My cell # is 255-6267.

David