Day 26

15June2008

Began the day at the boat launch after a restless night of rain accompanied by the sound of traffic. 45 minutes of paddling and we were in the midst of an intermediate fen - a large bog that is pretty rare. Crossed paths with Jonathan and Paul who were being hosted by Bill Manning. We were invited inside and got some coffee and good conversation to warm us up. (in the photo from left: Jonathan, Paul, Bean, and Cranky Pants.)

We next began the tricky task of negotiating the river through this large wetland. A few false starts, but we eventually found our way through. Continued on upriver, over beaver dams and blow downs, slow going! The misquitos were out in force! Ran into some minor rapids that we lined and portaged around.

The Clyde grew narrow and convoluted the closer we got to Island Pond, VT. Poled our way into town and underneath the Clyde River Hotel (apparantly once so notorious it was known as the zoo...) where we met up again with Jonathan and Paul gorging themselves on town food. Danger.

Tried to track down the portage cart, but the shop where we sent it was closed and we couldn't get through on the phone. The saga continues... Luckily we ran into a dude named Albert Goulet who promptly set us up with a free place to stay where we could get showers and rest as we waited for the cart. Island Pond is an amazingly friendly place that is convenient to walk around. Can't ask for much more.

Weather: rain in the morning, humid, rain in the evening

Wildlife: mink, beaver, heron, MISQUITOS

"The river delights to lift us free, if only we dare to let go. Our true work is this voyage, this adventure." ~Richard Bach