On a day that reached 96 degrees in the Eugene area , we had a blast out on the coast while paddling the Siltcoos.  This time we had the tides on our side, to help us glide to the ocean.  At one point along the way we enjoyed a run / somersault down a dune into the water!  We still have 2 dates left for this 4 hour paddle!  August 6th (Tuesday) and August 31st (Saturday). Roll down this dune into the warm water below :) What goes up must come down! Under the Highway 101 bridge. Taking a lunch on the wet send to avoid the Snowy Plover nesting sites.

This past Tuesday Tour was a great day on Mercer Lake.  Located just North of Florence, this lake is off the beaten path and has different “arms” to paddle along and explore.  We had some windy weather but still were able to enjoy the shoreline.  The water was warmer than the air temp, so getting wet wasn’t a big problem! Paddling below an Osprey Stuck in the cabbage! Mercer Lake Salmonberry! Mmmmm… Paddling in the wind.

It was a cool day with a small breeze, with sun breaks.  Ideal for paddling in late Spring.  We went down from the Coyote Creek Canoe Launch to Fern Ridge Reservoir.  We encountered many birds along the way, and saw signs of beaver.  There are a number of bird houses to shelter various small birds. Here is a photo of a couple kayakers at the end of a nice day on, and in, the water! Tiger Lily Anthers Western Serviceberry, an Oregon native! This is a link to the Coyote Creek hiking trails…. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/visitors/fern_ridge_wildlife_area/trailguide.asp

Another scorching day best spent out on the water. We took the Stand Up Paddleboards out onto the Lake and got a workout.  After that we played around and cooled off in the water! One way to take a break. Tree Pose? SUP Yoga

When you think of Italy, what comes to mind? Great food, ancient culture, superb football?  How about beautiful coastline and paddling?  Down on the Amalfi coast, a surprise awaits for paddlers of all skill levels.  There are many caves, inlets and pinnacles to explore.  The island of Capri is fascinating from the water!  As well, keep in mind that paddling has been around in Italy for many years too! Sea kayaking along the Amalfi Coast It’s the coastline of a thousand arches.  And while there are more boats in the water getting around from place to place, there is plenty of space on the Tyrrhenian Sea.  At the far end of this photo you can just make out the Galli islands.  This is where the Sirens were thought to have been awaiting a lonely sailor….. Gorgeous coast to explore... In the town of Amalfi they hold an occasional Kayak Polo tournament, we…