St.Johns River Paddle -

We met up at Lake Monroe Park in Debary at 8:00am, ran our shuttle, and hit the water with excitement at 9:10am.  We paddled along the river's edge mostly, and we saw 2 manatees (at least parts of them in the dark water), admiring how the weather just couldn't have been more perfect.   We saw trees full of vultures as we passed by the FPL power plant area, some blue heron, egret, other birds, and even saw 1 bald eagle.   Only 1 gator sighting - on a far bank.  The winds were calm, and the motor boats & jet ski traffic was less than expected for this Veteran's Day holiday weekend.   We had 12 people in 11 kayaks (1 tandem) and paddled 4.5 miles.  Good conversation & enjoyment of our water & wilderness experience was shared by all.   We stopped on a tiny beach for snacks about a mile before the end of our trip, where 1 trekker found an alligator skeleton.  The skull was in nearly perfect condition.  Cool!    Overall, the 3 hours was well spent.   A great trip with great people! 

Host: Valerie Mundo