Write-up by Meg Higgerson
Twenty two brave Tramps equipped with Kayaks or canoes met at the Newcomb Overlook and proceeded to the Tahawas Iron Mine Bridge. This bridge is the most upstream bridge on the Hudson open to vehicles. After putting in on a steep bank we first paddled down a very wide segment of the river and before long entered a rather winding and twisted section of the Hudson. The current varied from slow to moderate as we meandered down the serpentine river around sand bars, downed logs and sometimes not so hidden boulders. It was a wilderness kayak and we met no other humans but saw much beaver and wildlife activity.
As we rounded a bend we came upon a jam composed of fallen trees, brush and logs. It was roughly 12 feet high and at the narrowest place, 20 feet wide. The only way to get around the jam was to go over it!!! So that is what we did in usual Tramp style…All assisting one another in and out of boats; all managing to climb over the jam. Then the boats were moved up and over the dam as they were handed from one tramp to the next.
The remainder of the trip was uneventful in comparison. We disembarked and portaged the kayaks. To the amazement of all, one participant was determined to not get his feet wet the entire trip! We shuttled back and got the cars, loaded the boats, had a minor medical emergency but we were all loaded and moving out in a short time.
To end the day’s event, the group met at the Higgerson’s for a pot luck meal and celebration of a day well done!! We believe a great time was had by all!!!
Write-up by Kathy Countryman