FORT DE SOTO PICNIC PADDLE - Level 2
Trip leaders:
Description: We'll meet at Arrowhead Picnic Area at Fort De Soto Park. If conditions allow, we'll launch and head through Bunces Pass, paddling north along Shell Key to Irma Pass. We can stop for a break on the inside of Shell Key, practice rolls, rescues, etc. From there we'll paddle around islands on the inside, through some mangrove tunnels, and back to Arrowhead in time to pack up and head to the picnic at 1PM at Shelter 3. We can make route adjustments in response to weather conditions and group needs.
Location: Arrowhead Picnic Area at Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S in Tierra Verde. Here's a Fort DeSoto Park map. Unless you have an annual pass, you'll need to pay the $6 parking fee payable via mobile parking app.
Schedule: Meet at 9:30 AM on Saturday, February 21. Be ready to launch kayaks by 10:00. (Later launch time due to tide schedule.) We'll return around 12:00-12:30 PM.
Difficulty: Level 2. This is a mostly open water paddle of about 7-8 miles. Review TBSK's Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact trip leaders with any questions.
Requirements: Boats must be at least 14 feet long with deck lines and bulkheads or bow/stern flotation. Paddlers must wear a PFD with whistle, a spray skirt, and appropriate water shoes. Dress for immersion--Gulf temps range from the high 50's to low 60's this time of year. Bring plenty to drink and be sure it's accessible while you paddle.
If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify leaders before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed.
If your plans to participate change, please cancel on the website or app so that people on the waitlist can join us.