Nice to come back and paddle a river I haven't paddled probably since 2006 or 2007. Double digit weather and sun is pretty rare in my recollection of spring paddling on the Upper Black. With three little gorges, Double Drop, Otterslide, bbb falls, particle accelerator and the Mill Drop as the finale, its a great spring run. Having the shore lined with spectators and video cameras running during Mackfest certainly adds "something" when you are scouting BBB falls and you know there will be a permanent record if you mess up your line. Particle accelerator was particularly nasty this weekend and damaged at least 5 open boats. One of them came away with an almost metre long gash through the hull - ruined.
A great day of paddling on the Upper Black is made even better with the welcoming locals having baked goods and bbqs on hand at the take out to feed hungry paddlers. Of course for some of us gluttonous Cdb'ers (I'm using the plural here to justify my own excess - of course), the take out feed was just the appetizer before the grand finale feast at Kelly's Landing on HWY 37. Over drinks, Jim had video on hand for paddlers to review and critique their boof strokes (or lack thereof) at the Mill Drop. With Todd's break down, Paul is certain he has it dialed in and will style the drop next time.
A good long paddle is an excuse for me to throw away the calorie counter and have an all out cheat day. Two deserts - pie before and after dinner - and dinner being a half rack of ribs and a stuffed baked potato, plus another burger at the take out bbq - now that's a good day! I think Paul took home the poutine he couldn't finish at dinner for breakfast on Sunday morning.
Coming out of the restaurant there were probably 15 vehicles in the parking lot. Only 2 did not have boats on them. Good to see paddlers spending money in local area businesses so they stay happy to see us coming back!
Good water, good weather, good friends, good food - Perfect Day!
