It started out as a Jamestown Island paddle but vigorous winds from the southwest created some challenging chop on the James River so we opted to paddle Powhatan Creek instead. I made this decision at the James City County Marina before we put in. I could see the Marina's flag whipping in the wind and knew what it would be like out on the James. But Bill had to see the River so he, Brian and Ken paddled out to the James while the rest of us (Jack, Jay, Jim, Gayle, Tom, Vic and Margaret) headed up Powhatan Creek. And what a beautiful paddle it turned out to be! A few raindrops chased us as we began but soon dissipated and the sun came out. We saw many Great Blue Heron, turtles and jumping fish as we negotiated the many switchbacks of this meandering creek. Lots of pretty homes and wildflowers dotted the shoreline. We saw the famous cypress tree that John Smith climbed with Pocahontas (or something like that). There was enough water in the creek with the tide and all the rain we've had that we were able to paddle a pretty fair distance. We stopped at the recently redone cement steps at Powhatan Creek Park to eat our lunch. Brian, Ken and Bill had caught up with us by now. We ate our lunches, shared lemon oreos and watched Cosmo the Golden Retriever swim after tennis balls tossed by his owner. I tell you what--it doesn't get any better. Then we headed back to the marina. The sun was in full force by now but there was a nice breeze as well. Back at the take-out, we loaded our boats and then headed to the marina store for some ice cream. Total mileage today 7-9 miles.
While we were eating our frozen treats we were pleasantly surprised by the arrival of Faye and Mark! Boy, were they late for the paddle! No, they had to run an errand in Jamestown and came to check in on us. THIS IS THE BEST PART ABOUT THE TUESDAY GROUP! WE ARE FAMILY!! AM I RIGHT OR WHAT?!
Phyllis
View Jim's pictures: https://imagesbyjimarend.smugmug.com/Sports/Kayaking/20160705-Powhatan-Creek-Paddle/
View Bill's pictures: https://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_billings/sets/72157667890666364/