Weekend At Arizona Hot Springs

Four of us from our local meetup group decided to do an overnight paddle this weekend. We started at  Willow Beach, AZ and paddled about 8 miles upstream to the Arizona Campground and hot springs. Unfortunately, the winds were from 20-30 mph. Fortunately for us, they were blowing upstream so even though it was really choppy, the paddle up was fairly easy.

After setting up camp we made the short hike up the canyon to relax in the hot spring pools. After that we enjoyed dinner and a little wine around the campfire whilst Larry told ghost stories. (Actually, the Legend Of The Goatman.) One more dip in the hot springs and it was off to a good nights sleep except for wondering if we were going to drown during the night due to rising water levels, (long story.) The morning was a bit cold but I didn't notice it too much until we got on the water. Unfortunately, we still had 20 - 30 mph winds. Fortunately, during the night the winds shifted direction and they blew us back down the river. Even with the choppy water and lunch break we still made it back to Willow Beach in record time. Overall it was an excellent trip with a great group of people.

Larry, John & Gwen

Our campsite at the waters edge. Notice our high water berm,which I might add,  wasn't necessary. (Probably  wouldn't have worked anyways.)

Eric joined us with his Hobie for a day paddle.

Johns beautiful hand built wooden kayak.

Windfinder

I usually check with Windfinder before I take the kayak out. This morning it said 2-3 mph winds. Does this look like 2-3 mph? I don't think so.

On the bright side, since I wasn't kayaking, I did some exploring and found some cool places to put in at Government Wash.

Superbowl Sunday At Lake Mead

I met my friend Larry at the PWC Beach this morning for a paddle over to Hoover Dam. It seems there is a small cove to the left of the dam which currently has a nice little beach to stop at. With the fluctuating water levels this could change but right now it's a very nice rest spot. The weather was overcast when we left the beach but the temps were great and that water was almost glassy. On the way back we hit a bit of wind in the channel to the dam but it was minor and not a sign of another boat. In the summer it's extremely choppy in this area due to all the boat and jet ski traffic. Round trip was about 8 1/2 miles. Beautiful day with good friends....and a little wine! Here is the link to my Strava page which shows the route and mileage. http://app.strava.com/activities/39651700

"Looksha Larry"

Headed for the dam. The back side isn't nearly as impressive as the front side.

The small cove and beach to the left of Hoover Dam.

An American Coot that was hanging out in the cove.

A shot from the canyon leading to the cove.

It was such a nice day I decided to paddle some more once the sun came out.