LF Gauge: 2.83-2.86', ~2,100 cfs, water 59°, air temperature 50-58°, sunny, calm to light winds
Eleven paddlers gathered for the last official Sunday GW loop trip of the season on a cool but gorgeous fall day. In OC-1s we had Gary and Ginny Q and Rich C. Alf C, Wayne M, Mikey B, Sean R, Brian C, Natalie H, Dmitry, and trip coordinator, Lisa L. paddled kayaks. Greg M's IK was unfortunately grounded by a non-functional pump. After scouting the strainer situation the previous weekend, Lisa took the trip down the usual route on the GW. The first strainer was easily avoided on the far right, and the second could be bypassed on either right or left. The third long strainer which guards the beginning of the left channel below Diagonal Ledges is easily bypassed on the far left. The trashed pink rec kayak that was embedded in the second strainer is now gone, no idea who did it or how. The group stayed together and most practiced eddy turns, surfing, ferrying, and attaining. The experienced paddlers enjoyed watching and cheering for the newer paddlers as they tested their skills. All paddled well making for a very relaxing day on the river. NOTE: The C&O Canal was lower than last weekend and if it drops further, a return trip to VIolettes' Lock may be difficult to impossible. Consider setting a shuttle to Pennyfield.
Most of us packed up and drove to Riley's Lock for a picnic, joined by Greg M, who used his unexpected non-paddling time to buy an impressive array of desserts at the supermarket before meeting us, and by John S, who brought his Solo stove and firewood to keep us warm. Barb B brought delicious nut brittle. We had a lovely time enjoying each other's company, hanging out around the fire with our lunches and the great food people brought to share. It was one of those golden days on the Potomac.