Pics Another gorgeous day in paradise. Hi to all from Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands. I drove up here last Saturday, with boat and bike mounted on the roof racks. The bike has been used exactly once. Meanwhile, you can't get me out of the boat. Yesterday I paddled in Haro Strait (for those of you who remember my questions on that some time ago) hoping to see Orcas. Alas, they didn't show. But the paddle was awesome. This is an exposed area of rugged coastline but while I was there the sea was like glass with no wind to speak of (except a nasty headwind for about a mile that then suddenly quit). Low '70s, sunny, beautiful. I discovered the "Current Atlas" at the local kayak shop here, and was able to time the trip so that I rode the currents both directions for an easy, relaxed paddle. Met some nice folks from Bellingham and paddled part of the way back with them. They had their paddle floats inflated and lashed to the rear deck -- to be ready just in case of capsize. I mentioned to them what someone told me Wayne Horodowich had said; that the water is so cold here that your lips won't form a seal around the paddle float to inflate it. But this couple hadn't heard that.
Today I put in at the County Park on Lopez Island and crossed over Upright Channel to paddle partly around Shaw Island. It didn't dawn on me until I was out there that this is the main boat throughfare from Anacortes to Friday Harbor. Constantly droning and loud boats, with accompanying wakes and wave reflection from the rocky bluffs. Ugh. Did enjoy lunch on a tiny island that is a state park and a marine water trails campsite. But not my favorite paddle. Plus it's 78 degrees; too hot. I'm too wimpy to try rolling by myself in the 41-degree water.
My first day here (last Sat.) I put in around 2 p.m. off the south end of Lopez Island, into Rosario Strait. The conditions were benign and I had been itching to get into the water. A river otter greeted me as I put in. Suddenly, several power boats motored in and then cut their engines. A dead giveaway that there was something to see. I paddled over and a grey whale surfaced not far from me. A great welcome to the islands.
The other paddle I did was up the length of Lopez Sound, about 8 miles round trip. Saw tons of seals, cormorants, egrets. Hung out on Spencer Spit state park reading for about an hour. A bit of a mistake, as I launched at full flood (didn't know until I was out there), which was a workout coming home. Didn't make that mistake again.
Am staying in a great vacation house at the south end of the island. Small, but it's just me. Huge windows, trees outside every one with a partial view of Mud Bay through the front. Wood floors, Corian countertops, dishwasher, microwave, washer/dryer; and most importantly, a hose outside.
Am unsubscribed from the listserv at the moment, so won't get any replies until I'm home next Mon or Tues. But wanted to share! Photos to come after I get home (I'm at the library, can't upload from here).
Happy paddling! Beth