We will put in at Ivy Lea, Ontario and paddle the St Lawrence River in the vicinity of the scenic 1000 Islands Bridge . The area is generally protected from high waves, but the main channels have a fair bit of pleasure boat traffic, so the largest waves we’re likely to encounter will be boat wakes. There may be opportunity for some fun in the slow but interesting currents that twist around the islands under the bridge. We’ll plan on lunch and a swim somewhere along the route. All participants must wear PFDs and, by coast guard regulations, must have a bailer, a buoyant heaving line, and a whistle on board and accessible. Depending on the route taken, total distance will be about 8 miles and include open water crossings of up to 1/4 mile. Level 3-4, moderate to strenuous, depending on wind conditions.

Contact Toni Towle or Peter Blood 613-387-2829, blackrapids@ripnet.com.