Inland Sea Kayakers: Mississippi River, New Year's Day 2001

Hidden Falls, Mississippi River, New Year's Day, January 1, 2001

The first paddle of the year!!

Welcome 2001.

What a day. You know it's been cold in Minnesota when a sunny 8 degree day feels mild. But it was really something.

A total of 23 people gathered at Hidden Falls -- some who came to build up a warm fire and welcome the new year with warm drinks, others came with canoes, and others with kayaks.

We paddled half a mile up to the dam, played around up there in the current and on the ice (ok and in the water), and then returned downstream.

Although it was cold, the weather was not a challenge, but the icy shore was (for some). Rich Wahls and Dana Dickson slid down the hill to launch. Others precariously balanced their boats on the ice lip and then tipped downwards, bracing (or not). Others climbed into boats already in the water.

It was a really wonderful way to welcome in the new year.