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Cancelled - Gum Slough - Level 2+

  • 15 Jun 2021
  • 9:00 AM
  • Turner Camp Road, Inverness
  • 6

Registration

  • Swamp, river, and springs - up to 12-13 miles

TRIP CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST.


Trip leader: Jill Lingard, jill.lingard@gmail.com, 352-665-1776,  with assistance from Gum Slinger Steve Cournoyer

Description:  Located along the Withlacoochee River near Inverness, Gum Slough is billed as one of Florida’s wildest spring runs.  It starts off through a meandering, narrow cypress swamp which eventually opens up into a wider, grassy paddle with hardwood hammocks. The darker tannic waters of the Withlacoochee gradually turn clearer in the slough.  Our reward for continuing the journey is an opportunity to visit up to seven springs in the final mile. 

This is likely not the trip for folks who need the guarantee of an obstacle-free day.  While air-boaters do a pretty good job of clearing out blow-downs, there could be a snag or two that we have to pull over.  Shorter kayaks may work better in some of the tighter spots, but Steve says that sea kayaks should do okay too.  And of course we can help each other through.  There aren't too many places to get out.  But if the river is low, there are a few places with sandy shallows and a rocky area to get out if needed. Swimming in springs is a possibility, so bring a mask and snorkel if that interests you.

Location: We’ll launch and take out at the boat ramp at the end of Turner Camp Road in Inverness.  Check out the Gum Slough info sheet and maps on FPTA’s website.

Schedule: Meet at 9:00 a.m. for a 9:30 launch.  Anticipate finishing up around 3:00-3:30 p.m.

Additional information:

  • Parking is free.
  • This trip is capped at 10 paddlers.  

Difficulty: This is a Level 2-3 trip, depending on how far we go.  If we visit many side springs along the way, we may paddle up to 12-13 miles.  We can cut the trip shorter based on slough conditions and the group’s preferences.

Required/recommended gear: Wear a PFD, bring lunch and plenty of water to drink, and insect repellent may be a good idea. 

Refer to TBSK’s Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact the leader with any questions.



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