[Howard Sprague]

After a few years of saying, "One of these days,..." I think I'm in this time.

http://www.fpdcc.com/tier3.php?release_id=557

[twade]

Howard I am right there with you on "One of these days..."

Geneva Kayak had a Christmas light kayak run on the fox last week. I was behind on Christmas shopping and decided I shouldn't go. Plus the river was locked on that stretch, I have no idea of they pulled it

[Howard Sprague]

I am in!!

[Howard Sprague]

Alright, that was cool. A balmy 16 degrees, and I can check one thing off my list for the year.
The Upper Branch of the Chicago River is pretty nice.
I'll post pics if I can, there were probably a hundred or so people out there. I guess a few had to get fished out of the water, but it was a nice paddle. Dress right, and it's a good time. Pretty well-organized too, with a shuttle and Cook Cty Forest Preserve Police/ Forest Preserve people helping out, as well as volunteers from paddling clubs like Prairie State Canoeists. A few "safety" boat paddlers at various spots on the river...they've been doing this event for awhile, I guess, and it's very well thought-out. People in great moods and a nice sense of paddler comaraderie - canoeists & kayakers alike. Got me outta bed on New Year's Day too!

[Howard Sprague]

So far, looks like it'll be a bit warmer this year...

[Bad Water Bill]

For those of you that have never taken the NEW YEARS trip put it on your to do list for next year.

A good part of the trip actually has you in a valley sheltered from the wind. You might have to peal off a layer or two before the end.

IIRC the Chicago canoe basin was a sponsor and possibly the originator of the event.