Day 18 - Kerry Creek

An amazing day (June 17) filled with sunshine, butterflies, and one gnarly rapid by the name of Chittam.

We had a beautimus morning, hot coffee and a 10:00 AM start. After visiting a historic icon, the Polly Bemis Ranch, we set our oars straight for the current and made our way toward Chittam.

For a bit of history, Chittam is a notorius rapid with right curving turns and sharply moving current which slams its way into a rock wall filled with large breaking waves and deep holes. A nonforgiving rapid for a wild and crazy group.

Upon our arrival we scouted the rapid and promptly hesitated windering who exactly was going to go first. Raft after raft, kayak after kayak we battled the rapid. I believe the tally went like this:

• Chittam 1, raft broken oar
• Chittam 2, raft almost flipped
• Chittam 3, raft way to far left and just kissed the rock

We did have some good runs here and there and thankfully everyone arrived safe and sound in the eddy below. We are now at camp right above the Kerry Creek boat ramp and welcoming some new arrivals for this trip.

It is strange to think that our wilderness crew is almost bidding us farewell. But alas, such is life here on this River Of No Return.

I will leave this blog with a brief but sincere wish, I hope for nothing but sunshine and smiles for the rest of the expedition. But if all else fails, we must realize that CW HOG will remain and continue its journey on the many adventures to come.

Cheers to the river, to the HOGs, and all of us who really believe.