Why I'm attempting the 100 Mile NPS Paddle Challenge

The news that these people had left their own country to bathe in the river Jordan, spread among all the kings and chiefs of Florida, and as they were an ignorant people, they all set out in search of this river, which was supposed to possess the power of rejuvenating old men and women. So eager were they in their search, that they did not pass a river, a brook, a lake, or even a swamp, without bathing in it; and, even to this day, they have not ceased to look for it, but always without any success.

- Memoir Of Hernando D’Escalante Fontaneda 1575

I'm not expecting to find the Fountain of Youth, but I needed some kind of cross training upper body workout to supplement (i.e. give my knees a break) my long distance running. As with signing up for a marathon it is simply a way of maintaining my motivation to keep exercising. I much prefer training outside versus working out in a gym. So kayaking (and the occasional period oared powered vessel), seemed like a good fit.

Sunday, June 12, 2016

Fort Caroline National Memorial & The Timucuan Preserve

Last  park on my trip was  Fort Caroline NM which I hadn't been to since filming the History Channel's Conquest of America.  So I had to get this Park in my Paddle Challenge itinerary.  I launched from the Fulton Landing boat ramp about a half mile west of the Fort Replica. Paddled past the bluffs where the Ribault Column is located and back.  I was worried that since this was a shipping channel it might be rough but in fact a surprisingly peaceful morning paddle.

At the  Fort Caroline Visitor's Center gave me a couple of suggestions for additional paddling.  I choose to hit the Cedar Point boat ramp and then head for home.

 
The River side of the wall protecting Ft. Caroline

The Cedar Point area of Timucuan Preserve


FOCA 

 TIMU

#FLNPS100PaddleChallenge and #FindYourPark

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