Winter Paddling

Winter Paddling

by Ed Councill

There are two ways to think about winter canoeing: HERE in Kentucky, or THERE somewhere south where it's warm and adventurous. The Kentucky Outdoor Center and Canoe Kentucky offer that choice to its guests - both work to relieve cabin fever during the off-season between December and April.

Another choice would be whether to use a canoe or kayak - again, both work! Let's explore these options in a little more detail...

First, doing the domestic thing (staying here in Kentucky). A Southern Living article (November 94) starts off with "Ed Councill had me hooked on winter canoeing 30 seconds into the phone call," wrote Steve Millburg. He was reacting to the explanation that with no leaves on the trees, you can see things you can't see any other time of the year; with no farming activity and precipitation in the form of snow, the water is iridescent, crystal clear, jade green; with the cold air being less dense than other seasons, you can almost hear a chipmunk breathe; and with the good fortune of paddling the day following a snow or ice-storm, it feels like paddling through a chandelier. It reminds me of the John Denver song, 'You Fill Up My Senses.'

Properly outfitted, people are quite safe paddling in winter. Wet-suits, dry tops, fleece socks and cap, and gloves assure a comfortable trip, even if the participants choose to see the water 'up close and personal.'

Trips are available throughout Kentucky, especially on the Cumberland and Green rivers, as well as the Elkhorn. Day trips are most popular, however, multi-day excursions are for the more adventure-minded. Either canoes or kayaks may be used. Some locations even lend themselves to hiking, caving and biking.

Second option - THERE! With the approach of cooler weather, one can all too easily feel the heaviness of the expected cabin fever. Having been raised in the four seasons of Kentucky since birth, I discovered the excitement of winter outings. As a young adult I favored this season as an opportunity to 'getaway' from the closeness of a seven-member family. I was eager to experience Mother Nature's crisp, clear, clean air and took to traveling the states. As an adult I have realized that the best getaways with Old Man Winter are to be shared with others. These are a few of my favorite places I found to compliment the months of October through March.

One of my first excursions in off-season adventures was into the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge located in two states: southeast Georgia and northeast Florida. Knowing this area was swampland, I anticipated an adventure with alligators, snakes and cypress jungles to be limiting. I was asked to join a college group into the remote backwaters. It could be classified as my first professional guide. The beauty and serenity captured a place in my soul I still sense. It was certainly a foreign country compared to the bluegrass I was familiar with. The unique exposure to such a diverse territory and outstanding winter climate encouraged me to seek many more opportunities.

If you have ever wondered what could possibly be so wonderful in the vast, dry lands of Texas, consider a tour through the canyon lands of the Rio Grande. Although I had skipped over seeing Big Bend National Park for several years, it is currently my favorite winter jaunt. I had only imagined a small bit of this desert land possible of beauty. The expression "long Texas miles" should be trailed with "whose beauty is like that of a perfect summer's day" - excitingly scenic with a hundred or more animals and plants as well as natural wonders. The fact that the Rio Grande acts as borderline to the United States and Mexico offers opportunity to tour the remote, small towns and peoples. I love to tell friends, "I paddled to Mexico in one day!" There are plenty of extras; hot springs, caves, desert springs, and mountains providing much exploration. It's a must for the winter enthusiast.

Spaces are limited to no more than 20 persons per trip. Costs range from $800 to $1200 per week. For all the particulars as well as reservations, please contact Pattie Gavin or Ed and Allison Councill at the Kentucky Outdoor Center.