THE WEATHER OUTSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL, BUT
THE CANOEING IS STILL DELIGHTFUL PHOTO: KAYDI PYETTE
FLEXIBLE ROUTE PLANNING. Let the weather forecast aid in planning your off-season trips. If high winds are expected, stay off large lakes. If the temperature is dropping, avoid
travel through creeks that could ice over. Short days also mean significantly less travel time for paddling as well as camp chores. Plan accordingly and bring an extra set of batteries for your headlamp.
WOOD HUNT. If you’re camping, you’ll be spending more than half the day in darkness. A cozy campfire might be the only way to avoid a 6 p.m. bedtime. If you have the option, and portages are short, consider bringing a bag of bought firewood. It’ll help lessen the impact on the forest around your campsite and allow you to enjoy more of the evening outside. Bring fire starter with you (birch bark or the store-bought synthetic variety), and keep it and your matches or lighter in a waterproof container.
DON’T PUSH. By paddling in the shoulder season canoeists expose themselves to more environmental risk, that’s a fact. Don’t further increase your risk by trying for a marathon paddle or venturing into an unknown area. Now is not the time to push the limits of experience and ability.
COMMON SENSE. Safety systems paddlers should follow on every backcountry trip still apply. Tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back. Have a bailer bucket, buoyant line and whistle on board. And wear a PFD on the water at all times—no exceptions. While a ditch kit is always ideal in the backcountry, it’s an essential in the off-season.—Canoeroots Staff
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