“FROZEN ASSES TO BEACH-SIDE BATHESS”

We awoke on day 5 to a remarkably warm-feeling 37 degrees.  In retrospect that sounds quite chilly, but after three consecutive sub-freezing nights, it was quite a relief.

Our first stop was Vasey’s Paradise – a large spring that gushes out of the redwall hundreds of feet above the river – where we replenished our water jugs.

Then it was down to Redwall Cavern – a large cave in the redwall cliff at river level that has a large sandy floor and is large enough to hold several thousand people.

The rest of the day was spent rowing down a beautifully calm and magnificent stretch of river where enormous amphitheaters and giant caves in the redwall cliff towered hundreds of feet above us.  By now the Canyon was a couple of thousand feet deep and looking very impressive.

Up to now I had been rowing the “Piedra” – an 18 foot inflateable boat that had to weigh at least a ton when fully loaded.  While it coasted nicely over the rapids, it was very hard to control due to its size.  When I would strike the oars, nothing when happen.  It usually took several strokes to see any results.  But after lunch I had the opportunity to row the Susie R.  What a difference!  This boat actually turns when you want it to!  And when you row forward, it MOVES forward!  What a concept.  I rowed over two small rapids and several riffles, and it handled like a dream!

After 10 enjoyable miles we arrived at our day’s destination to a glorious 59 degrees.  Everyone removed several layers of clothes, and Leif dove into the river for the first bath of the week.  He also through Yoshie in for good measure.

It was a great day.

Arnie Richards