[Paddlewise] everglades

Peter wrote:


Has anybody on the list ever done the Wilderness Waterway, 99 miles from


Everglades City to Flamingo (or v.v.). We are planning on doing it (how's


that for a New Years paddle!), and would like to hear some first hand


experiences.





  Peter , 


I have made many trips into the Everglades including most of the wilderness
waterway. It is a wonderful place to canoe or kayak. Dolphins, manatee,
Pelicans, and other birds abound. 


A few tips....


-You will need to carry in all your water (the glades are salt water or
brackish) The park service recommends one gallon per person per day. 


-Keep your water out of reach of the racoons, they have few sources of fresh
water and will chew into water bottles.People have had to turn back because
the racoons stole their fresh water. We keep our water in our tents at night
or inside the kayak hatches.


-Be prepared for bugs,headnet and repellant , they are still there in the
winter.


-Be prepared for wind, it can kick up fast and the water being shallow the
waves get very choppy


-Get the latest map and mount a compass to your boat,use them constantly, you
can get lost quickly as the trail winds through the mangroves. Also fog can be
a problem. 


-Try to make it out to the outer islands (pavillion or rabbit key)...more
wildlife and shells


-Beware of the oyster bars, they are extremely sharp and a fall onto one when
landing the boat can cause serious injury.


-You have to camp at designated campsite. You will need to register with the
The national park service. Register as soon as you get to Everglades city so
you can get the campsite you want. The week you are going is a busy time.The
chickees (camping platforms built above the water) can get crowded especially
if a storm sets everyones schedule off. 


-Take a bird guide


Have a great trip


Bob 


Sitka











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