The Great Mississippi River Adventure 

Day 10

Stats

35.23 miles traveled in 7.19 hours

River mile start:1006

River mile end:970

River mile today:36

River mile total:371

% complete: 15.6

Averaged 4.8 mph (including lunch break and rest stop)

Burned 1782 calories

Kayak: Y & H Quest

Temp at launch 63 degree, at recovery degree 91

Today began with a short paddle and a portage around a dam. Potlash dam.

The rest of the day was mostly just paddling.  I  saw the ever present turtles, ducks, geese, eagles, no snake today. But I did see a Tom turkey strutting for his hens. 

I continue down the river and 1/2 a mile later I saw mama bear and her cubs. I took the pictures and kept on going.

I did learn one thing, follow the maps. Just because the river is wider that does not mean it is the channel. Unfortunately I discovered lots of rocks. Now I have to figure a deep scratch repair for my kayak. It's still sound, but I wand to reinforce it. 

On a religious stream of thought...as I travel through the wilderness I can't help but get the feeling that God build all this wilderness for us to play in and enjoy. When a father builds a swing for his kids, he gets enjoyment from watching the kids play with it. I can only imagine God has the same enjoyment from watching me smile as I paddle down the wilderness.  I encourage everyone to leave their house and safely get into the wilderness. You will smile just standing in it! Don't worry about your level of fitness. Find an adventure you can physically do. With each outing your condition will improve. 

Additionally,  today Denean moved the trailer by herself.  So everyone needs to congratulate her on her success!