7/29/2021 Black River: HACC Trip(Black River Falls to Irving)

7.29.2021 Black River: HACC Trip (BRF to Irving)

Facts and Data:

River Stage: 5.0 ft at the beginning—6.0 ft at end
Water Temperature: 76°
Air Temperature: 82°

Length of Paddle: 12.5 miles
Average Speed: 4.7mph – fast current

Trip Number (21-15) This is our second trip with the Holmen Area Community Center (HACC). We had a couple of repeat customers in Cindy and Steve, and a couple of old guards (Steve+D, Tom, and Me) so we did a different trip than we normally would have done, to keep the excitement. We decided to go from downtown Black River Falls to Irving, a little spot on the map that includes a town hall and a John Deere junk yard. There had been a significant storm the night before with high winds and substantial rain. You can see the damage of fallen trees in the video and the current was quite fast, the river actually rose 1 foot while we were paddling. We did make some pretty good time and actually finished the 12.5 miles in 2 hours and 43 minutes, about an hour and a half faster than normal. Due to the high water we were able to paddle into a little opening in the bank and discovered a very scenic rock wall with a small waterfall—as Steve+D put it—“God’s outdoor chapel”. I was able to take a few pictures, in spite of Cindy blocking her face with her paddle—she doesn’t like having her picture taken. The reports from our guests at the end were–they would “do this trip again”—pretty high praise from Steve, so we will list the day as a success.

Our wildlife included several Eagles—flying quite high as they tend to do this time of the year, so they are small in the pictures, but it is hard to get them to pose for a close-up.

To watch the video click the arrow and then enlarge the screen with the icon in the lower right of the screen. To get back to this page just shrink the page back to normal.
When viewing the still pictures below, click on them and they will also enlarge and then move through the selection with the arrow on your computer. Enjoy!!
Steve+D’s music selection for today is:
Proud Mary by Tina Turner
(Pat C. recommends)
Ride The River by Eric Clapton & J.J. Cale
The 59th Street Bridge by Simon & Garfunkel