Paddling the Neuse: 7 people, 7 days, almost 180 miles
It’s been a fantastic week on the Neuse River. I paddled with six fantastic and supportive people.
Day seven, Saturday, was our final day on the river. Blue sky, cool temperatures, and plenty of water helped push us down the river.
But Friday night was a different story. Sleeping in tents, we were camped at Maple Cypress boat access area. Storms blew through the area about 9 p.m., then again at 2 a.m., and a little more at 4 a.m. But we all made it through the night no worse for the wear.
The seven of us left Raleigh a week ago. We headed downstream led by Bill Hines and Larry Summers. I think we all learned a lot about the river.
We paddled about 27 miles Saturday, the final leg of our journey.
The last three miles were the toughest, when strong winds and rough water in the wide river near New Bern made paddling very difficult.
But with our landing site in view, there was no stopping us.
Seven people, seven days, 179.14 miles. Absolutely fantastic.
