2024 Fall Gathering - Palmer Rapids Paddler Co-op
Please join us at the 2024 WCA Fall Gathering
On September 13 to 15, 2024, Friday night to Sunday afternoon
Where; Palmer Rapids Paddler Co-op.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ENEs8SQY76WHiGqw5/
Bring your own food, drink, camping gear.
Gary 905-922-1434, Chris M.519-878-9358, Thomas C. 416-209-3271 (one of use can help you)
Paddler Co-op rentals call Ryan at 613-758-2772. Camping just show up and pay in the office.
Paddle Co-op
Paddler Co-op has purchased the property and secured a river access point for paddlers and recreationalists for future generations. The WCA is proud to help in this effort. Having the WCA Fall Gathering at the Paddler Co-op is our way of contining our support and introducing new and existing members to the facility.
Donation link
https://sweet-home-paddler-co-op.raisely.com/
Itinerary
We are planning a visit to the Canadian Canoe Museum on the drive up on Friday. Look for this announcement.
Friday the Thirteenth Canoe Museum Visit | Wilderness Canoe Association
Friday Night
Drive up and find a campsites. Mention you are a WCA member and get 20% off camping during this weekend. Any other time you can get 10% off camping if you are a WCA member.
We will catch-up around a campfire Friday evening. Early arrivals on Friday can say hello to old and new friends, go for a riverside walk, or paddle to Palmer Rapids on the Lower Madawaski River for a quick evening run.
Saturday Featured Outing:
1. Flat Water: Paddle to Conroy Marsh
This is a guided paddle outing by Gary. Meet at 9 am in parking lot. It's a short drive to the put in. It is about 8 km paddle to the Conroy Marsh. Round trip ~16 km. The York and Little Mississpi rivers flow into it. The marsh drains into the Lower Madawaska River.
2. White water: Snake Rapids River Run on the Lower Madawaska River
This is the classic run down the Snake Rapids section .
- Put-in Location Almond Bay: https:// maps.app.goo.gl/eMJnUtQC8oJXf8JC6/
- Take-out Location Buck Bay: https:// maps.app.goo.gl/wEUe4DVKhHuTuoYaA/
Other Saturday Daytime Activities
- Playing at Palmer Rapids
- Hike some local trails
- Hang around campground and relax.
- Check out the town of Palmer Rapids and Combermere
Saturday Après-Paddle
We are aiming to arrive back at the campsites around 4 pm ish. This time can be used for gear demonstrations and/or gear swap. Participants are encouraged to bring any gear in good condition that they no longer need, to see if anyone else can put it to good use. Have a look through your old stuff and see what might be of interest to other members – a great way to declutter!
6 PM Dinner We are planning to have a group dinner at a local Ukraine Restaurant in Combermere ("Heartwood"). Traditional Ukrane food will be served. We have arranged to basically take over most of the restaurant. To facilitate quick service we will limit the food choices available, but you will not be disappointed. ~$20/meal. Beer and wine and other drinks available at extra cost.
Our evening program will feature various trip presentations in the Boat House. This will start at by approximately 8:00 pm, and run a couple of hours. Presentations;
- Snake River, Yukon by Erik
- Kayaking, Baja California Sur, Mexico by Gary
Even if you’re haven’t signed-up to present, feel free to bring some pictures on a USB memory key and share some memorable experiences.
Sunday
For people that want a relaxing day, wake up late and go for a few runs down Palmer Rapids or a flat water paddle down the Madawaska River its up to you.
Paddler Co-Op will give a dry land hands on clinic on boat repair and maintenance at 10 am
For others that want a full day run the Snake Rapids from Almond Bay to Buck Bay is an option.
Second flat water outing out of the town of Combermere boat launch. This will be a few hour paddle exploring the surrounding river and lakes. Meet at Combermere boat launch at 12:30 pm.
There are also a few local self guided hikes and attractions available. See Gary for Google Map links.
General Info;
Bring your own food, drink, camping gear.
Mention you are a WCA member and get 20% off camping for this weekend.
See Paddle Co-op website for camping/rental costs and other details. Note There is a once a year Co-op camping membership fee. Sorry no discount on this. $16.
Note there is a food store in Palmer Rapids (5 km away) and Combermere (7 km away) and local restaurants.
