A "Cool" Evening Paddle

Peak Expeditions Community Boat House, Orange MA

 

Took another grandson on an evening kayaking trip last night sponsored by Trail Head Outfitters at the Community Boat House in Orange, MA.  On the 15th of each month Trail Head conducts a workshop of "outdoor" things such as, geocaching, map reading, and camping cooking.  Last night's was a paddle on the Miller River from 6-8PM.  Some participants brought their own kayaks, and the rest of us were able to rent at a very reduced price, watercraft ranging from canoes, two-man kayaks, inflatable kayaks, to stand up paddle boards.

There was a little autumn nip to the air as we started up-river at our own pace, but it was a pleasant night to be out.  If you have ever kayaked before, you know that you almost have to get your feet wet getting into the kayak and you will get a little paddle drip in your lap, and so it was for us.

As we leisurely paddled along, I met a local gentleman who had also been stationed at Westover as I had.  Happening to look skyward from time to time to see if I could spot any skydivers, I was rewarded with the sight of 12-15 parachutists working their way down towards the Orange airport.  Both times I have paddled up there, I have seen skydivers, never at the moment of jumping out of the plane but with plenty of time to watch them float down.  I appreciate the thrill they must get, but have not gotten the urge to participate.

As we continued on we were met by a very long oncoming train along the left bank of the river.  If I had been closer to the "tunnel" that runs under the railroad tracks, I would be reporting to you that I got run over by a train last night side but I couldn't get there in time.  When we did paddle through the tunnel we were saddened by the nearby quietness which was a clue that Annie's Ice Cream shop was closed.  Afterwards we took a drive by just to confirm they were closed so alas I could not prove to David that Annie's serves the biggest small cone in the world!

Joining us on the paddle last night was the 80 year old mother of  Trail Head's co-owner.  It was her first time in a kayak and she did a great job.  I was thrilled to see her picture on Facebook this morning so I could share it with you.  So there were two first timers last night; this lady and my grandson.  Might as well show them both.  Unfortunately I did not get her picture in the boat, but here she is enjoying some of the tasty chili and hotdogs provided by the event hosts, Trail Head Outfitters.

Eighty year old lady who kayaked for the first time last night.

My grandson's first kayak experience, too.

Enjoying some Trail Head chili and hotdogs.

The sun was just about down as we returned to the boathouse and the nip in the air was a little stronger but we didn't mind.  We were exercised, well-fed, and had made some new friends----and even found an open ice cream shop on our ride home!