It's hard to explain...fun half the time, grueling long stretches in the sun others, hard portages, mix in some amazing views and wildlife, nice camp sites. Lots of cool history too so I'm definitely glad I did it. I think doing it again wouldn't be because of the effort; I could go again in April and let that current push me the whole way and not sweat buckets. It's just the fact I'd be seeing all the same stuff again, like watching a movie twice that you didn't like the first time. But not that I didn't like this trip...if that makes sense?
I guess going with another person or small group would definitely be possible. Especially now that I know what I'm in for and could act as a guide. Before this trip, not knowing exactly where to camp, what the rapids would be like, and how the water levels would be caused some anxiety.
The water was absolutely perfect with no flavor or stomach issues so far. I didn't backflush at all but only filtered about 6L. I'm a big believer in filters and always trust them to get the pathogens out. But this river has to be full of chemicals from all the farm land so that's what I was worried about. Most plant crops 2 feet from the bank. No erosion control practices. 2,4-D, atrazine, etc. all being pumped down river. I guess "the dose makes the poison" comes into play if this stuff is getting diluted after 80 miles. I think the activated carbon helps with some of that stuff.
I have to call it a 100% success other than the vending machine hiccup. Literally a few sprinkles of rain for 30 seconds over 5 days...hard to get that in early June! Also very good practice for video and learning to edit when I got home. I always prefer photography, but this could get me into video more going forward. I was going to get a GoPro, but the iPhone 8 did a great job. I don't even have it set on the highest quality.
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