Written by John S., Wake Robin Resident
Wake Robin has really awakened to the joys of kayaking. With Lake Champlain literally at its feet and the sport was given a boost by the popularity of new, super lightweight (15 lbs.) Hornbeck kayaks, there are now at least two dozen Wake Robin kayakers on our lakes, rivers, and ponds. For an early morning paddle, you can put in at neighboring Shelburne Beach or nearby Bay Road fishing access and check out the coves accessing the broad lake of Lake Champlain.
There is the delight of winding your way up the totally protected waters of the La Platte River, a mecca for birders during the spring migration. A variety of sites – Waterbury Reservoir, the Lamoille and Winooski Rivers, and numerous stunning lake coves are within forty-five minutes of the Wake Robin campus.
Some of us try to get out whenever the weather permits, and go to different places two or three times a week. Some like to go early in the morning and see snowy egrets, cormorants, herons, turtles, and other wildlife in the placid waters of the La Platte.
Although kayakers have been on the Winooski River with its mild rapids, most of the paddling is on rivers or lake bays and inlets where the wind does not whip up disturbingly large waves. The Wake Robin paddlers are not into daredevil kayak racing or fast-moving waters. They prefer the calm paddling that most of our waters provide so they can enjoy the health benefits of leisurely, relaxing paddles and observing nature rather than marathon adventures.
Those who have the light Hornbeck kayaks usually keep these watercraft in their garages to avoid the effects of UV light. Several others store them on the very popular outside kayak rack… which is full at the moment. Since the outside rack is consistently full, we are considering building another (with the help of the woodshop crew).
Kayaking residents have such an enjoyable time on the water taking in all that nature has to offer. We would be happy to welcome any new resident kayakers and share with you your favorite kayaking spots.
