It was more than a 2 hour drive from Tampa to Alexander Springs. I got an early start and arrived about 8:45am. I was the first person to rent a canoe that day, which I wasn't aiming to do but was pleased. Chatted with the canoe livery guy a bit and then wheeled my aluminum Gruman to the landing. I loaded my gear*, snapped a quick picture and shoved off. With the first stroke of my paddle, I scared up an alligator right at the launch! Not a big boy, but still it was a good start.




The water was super-clean and clear under bright blue skies. It was just starting to warm up. I went about a quarter mile and spotted another alligator swimming across the creek. This fella was a bit bigger. There were a lot of nice sized fish in the upper stretches of the creek. A fishing license and rod would have been a nice way to spend more time.


Just as I was getting into the flow of the Wilderness, the creek approached a bridge crossing. A speeding truck crossed overhead as I paddled below. I think the boundary of the designated wilderness area starts at the bridge. The current was a nice assist on the downward leg of the trip… it would take a little more effort on the return. I could tell the wind was increasing, but didn't know if it was helping now or helping later. It the next sharp bend in the river, I spotted a BIG gator sunning on the bank. He was partially hidden in the growth. I took several pictures as my canoe slowly glided closer. When he decided to move, WOW… look out! That guy can go! And go FAST!


As the morning progress, the temperatures climbed and the sun intensified. I had not brought any sunscreen and my bare legs overheated. Fortunately, I took a break on shore in the shade and when I headed back upstream, my shadow prevented direct exposure to the sun on my legs.



The trip back was up current and required a little more effort. I saw a nice size alligator sunning on a log and got one more picture.



Overall, it was a nice 3 hour trip with wonderful weather. I stopped along the road outside the park to take a picture of a recent wildfire and still smoldering trees.


*Gear consisted of a waterproof Gecko day pack with a change of clothes, folding rubber cup, compass and duct tape. Forgot
waterbottle and snack.

I did my first paddle yesterday in the Twin Cities. I was out on Long Lake in Ramsey County (ice was out on the north end due to a creek that flows in) and I was accompanied by 10 loons and two bald eagles. Wish I had more pics to share.

It was cool paddling past thin ice and hearing the sound of my wake breaking it up behind me. Had lots of fun and measured water temps between 39-42 degrees. The whole lake should have ice out today.

Looks nice Bobber.........weather here in Florida has been stellar with it not being real hot, highs only in the low 80's. I suspect you had a fine time.

mastertangler: "Looks nice Bobber.........weather here in Florida has been stellar with it not being real hot, highs only in the low 80's. I suspect you had a fine time. "

Yep... had a great time in your state again this season. UP late winter is long and spring hardly happens until June. It is nice to get away. We are heading north via Virginia (Appalachian Trail hiking) and Washington, DC (home reno work for daughter). All this gets me back about May 10 and time to start packing for Quetico!

Where in FL are you located?