Sun, Jun 29 2014 - Afternoon & Twilight Kayak Paddle on Yahoola Creek and the Chestatee (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Allston, Paula Schubert Participants: Allston, Paula Schubert, John V, Deanna A, Heidi W., Thomas W., Alan A, Sondra, Katie S, Ron Walker, Alice, Kate, Ayo, Elizabeth K, Lizzie, David DeLorme, Lisa Maldonado, Dusty C.

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It turned out Yahoola Creek was too low to run, so we’ll have to try and do that one earlier next year. The good news was that we were able to add some more attendees to the event as a result. We always enjoy the Chestatee, and today was no exception. Despite a bit of rain now and then, our group of 18 enjoyed a beautiful paddle. The temperature was mild and we were able to take a quick break at Big BendBeach where co-leader Paula led some folks in a quick float down the “chute.”   Lightning prompted us to keep moving, but fortunately it never came too close, and the rain only caught us for about ten or fifteen minutes of our trip.  Most of us agreed that it was refreshing more than annoying. : )

We had several “firsts” on this event: it was the first AOC event for Alan Armstrong and Katie Sailors (Welcome!), and the maiden voyage for Lisa’s new kayak, though sadly we had to forego the traditional champagne bottle smash/launch. There were also a couple of first-time paddlers, but they did great and no one took an unexpected swim.

After our paddle, fourteen of us continued on to Pueblo’s in Dahlonega for some delicious Mexican food. It was a bit of a wait on a table that would accommodate us, but the Manager offered us free bowls of queso as a reward for our patience, which we were happy to accept.

Thanks to all and hope to see you on the river again soon!