TRIP CANCELLED DUE TO REPORTS OF LOW WATER LEVELS AND HIGH ALLIGATOR ACTIVITY DURING THEIR MATING SEASON. WE'LL TRY THIS AGAIN AT A TIME OF YEAR WHEN IT'S EASIER TO KEEP A SAFER DISTANCE FROM GATORS ON THIS NARROW WINDING STREAM.
Hillsborough River Paddle - Sunday, April 27
Trip leaders: Scott Jantz (386-853-5159) and Jill Lingard (352-665-1776)
Description: Parks along the Hillsborough River are finally reopened and the river should be cleared of tree fall and snags, so let's go check it out! This peaceful blackwater stream meanders below a cypress and oak canopy except for a mile or so near Trout Creek, where it opens up. Alligators and turtles are common and it's usually a fantastic river for birding.
Location: We'll meet at Trout Creek Conservation Park, 12550 Morris Bridge Road in Thonotosassa
Schedule: Meet at 8:30AM for a 9:00AM launch. We'll paddle up to Morris Bridge Park and beyond if folks are game and eventually turn around and come back. On the upstream paddle or back down, Morris Bridge Park (3 miles from our launch) provides a good break/snack/restroom stop.
Additional information: Florida's Office of Greenways & Trails puts out an informative guide and a story map for the Hillsborough River.
Difficulty: Level II+ due to mileage. This is a sheltered river paddle with lots of twists and turns. We'll likely travel a minimum of six miles, but maybe over 10 if folks are up for it. See TBSK's Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact the trip leaders if you have any questions.
Required/suggested: Kayaks of at least 14' in length are preferred. As usual, everyone will need to wear a properly fitted PFD. Bring lunch snacks and plenty to drink.
If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify trip leaders before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed.
Please register (or cancel) on the website or contact the trip leaders to notify them of any changes to your plans to participate.