Photo: Greg Pflug Floating the World's Longest Blackwater River, South Carolina Highlights:
Includes:
Trip Number: 09091A Price: $945 Deposit: $100 Capacity: 12 Leader:
The Trip Unfortunately, this trip has been cancelled. If you have questions, please contact us. Photo: Greg Pflug The Edisto River is the longest completely non-dammed and non-leveed black water river in North America, flowing 206 meandering miles from its source in Saluda County, to its Atlantic Ocean mouth at Edisto Beach , SC. It rises in two main tributaries (North Fork & South Fork) from springs under the Sand Hills region of West Central South Carolina, just to the south of the Piedmont fall line, and is the longest and largest river system completely contained by the borders of South Carolina. Bald cypress trees and their kindred water loving plants are found in abundance along the river and in adjacent swamp and. There are some ridges with pine stands. After the confluence of the North Fork and South Fork, the main stem of the Edisto becomes more open with a few sand bars. Gradually, the Edisto widens and moves more slowly as it plies its course to the ocean. In the lower sections, shore birds are seen in abundance. This river is prime habitat for wood stork and American alligators.
 Photo: Greg Pflug Our trip will begin at Colleton State Park at 2 p.m. on day one. Here we will get some basic instruction on kayaking and packing everything into our kayaks. Our fist night will be spent at the park. Early in the morning we will push our bows into the black waters current and begin our float. Every morning will of course start with hot coffee and a big breakfast. The leaders will go over the days schedule, what to expect, and what wild things to look for. Since this is a float trip there is no rush to “put in some miles”, instead our group will take the time to observe the abundance of wildlife that congregates at swamps, black water rivers, sloughs, and marshlands. Lunches will always be served picnic style on the best beach of the day. Lunchtime is long so folks can siesta, swim, read a guidebook, or get some kayak instruction from one of the leaders. Once it cools down a bit we return to the river. In the late afternoon and early evening the critters begin to really show themselves and start singing. The pileated woodpeckers sound like laughing girls; the limpkin like a chorus of screaming monkeys, and the ever-common great blue heron moans and belches as he lazily swoops his way downstream. The highlight will be just as dinner is about to be served and the sun gets ready to set, the bull alligators will begin grunting and howling for a mate. To the first time visitor it will be amazing. To an old time friend of the low country it will be as comforting as a warm blanket. Most days we will paddle amongst tupelo, giant cypress, may haw, sweet gum, and bay trees. These trees grow on land as well as in the river. Their branches get covered in mosses, lichen, orchids, and ferns. Their hollow trunks house birds, snakes, and honeybees.  Photo: Greg Pflug On the last day of our river trip, the outfitters will meet us and shuttle us back to Colleton State Park. The leaders have reserved the group campsite for the night so everyone has the option of staying the night to shower off, clean up gear, and not having to feel like they have to hurry up and rush off. For folks staying the night after the trip ends we can find a local fish camp for dinner. The leaders will make every effort to run the trip as close to the itinerary as possible, however, the leaders sometimes have to change routes, itineraries, and schedules due to weather, strength of the group, and obstacles. We ask participants enjoy this flexibility. Getting There Our trip Begins and ends at Colleton State Park:
The leaders will prepare all meals, however, everyone is expected to help clean up. Meals included in the trip fee begin with lunch on the first day and lunch on the last day. Meals served on the trip will honor and reflect local cuisine. A typical dinner would consist of grilled salmon, new potatoes, corn on the cob, fresh salad, and something chocolate for dessert. Accommodations are backcountry and primitive.
Kayaking experience is not needed, however, like most water based outdoor activities, participants should be in good shape and a strong swimmer. The trip leader and assistant are both ACA certified kayak instructors. This would be an excellent trip for first time kayakers. Seasoned kayakers would also enjoy this trip immensely.
Camping gear should be small, light, and of expedition quality. Participants should be comfortable and accustomed to using their gear. This means being able to set up your tent in the dark, with strong winds, and rain. A detailed equipment list will be provided upon leader acceptance.
Conservation We'll discuss the on going battle with climate change. Due to the recent drought in the southeast, the Edisto has become a losing river. Not only is there less water flowing into the river system, more water is being absorbed into the ground to replace water that has been pumped for human uses. The leaders will also discuss the vital importance of wild rivers, swamps, and the low country.
See the How to Apply for an Outing section for more details on registering for this trip and details about our Reservation and Cancellation Policy. The payment of a deposit does not confirm you as a member on the trip. Participants must be approved by the trip leader. After signing up for this trip, you will be sent a confirmation packet containing approval materials (Participant Approval Questionnaire, Medical Form, Liability Release Form). Each applicant (including those on the waitlist) must fill out these forms and promptly mail them to the trip leader. The leader will review the approval materials and notify you of your acceptance in a timely manner.
Greg Pflug has dedicated his life to the pursuit of an endless outdoor adventure and preventing the destruction of the wild lands remaining in the southeast. A certified kayak instructor and outdoor specialist through professional training, Greg takes all the worry out of the activity so participants can enjoy the experience. Greg has been leading outings for Sierra Club since 1999. E-mail: gpflug@yahoo.com General Notes About Sierra Club Trips
|
