|
RTS 2012 Trip List For a pdf version of this trip list click HERE. Interested in paddling some great water with fun and skilled paddlers? If so, the River Touring Section (RTS) is the group for you. Every year, our members lead paddling adventures on both quiet water and whitewater. We also lead instructional clinics to teach you paddling and safety skills. RTS is affiliated with the Sierra Club, but our trips are open to everyone. We want to get you on rivers. We hope that you grow to enjoy paddling and to love rivers and support groups that work to protect them such as the Sierra Club and the River Alliance of Wisconsin. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Each trip and clinic includes the name and contact information of the trip leaders. You must call the leaders prior to the trip to register and to get the logistics of the trip (when and where it departs.) Trip leaders can provide information about the trip or clinic and help you assess your abilities to participate. Trip leaders reserve the right to limit participation based on the number of people registered, participant skill levels, trip difficulty, and other reasons. GEAR: You are responsible for providing all of your gear—boat, paddles, life jacket, bail bucket, and so on. You’ll also need to provide weather-appropriate clothing. This means a wet or dry suit for early and late season runs and for whitewater as well as gear to minimize sun exposure such as a hat and sunglasses. All participants MUST wear a properly fitted and securely fastened life jacket on all the trips and in the clinics. For Class II and higher whitewater, participants should wear a life jacket designed for whitewater, a whitewater helmet, and have a boat that is properly outfitted with floatation and thigh straps. These items may be required for some Class II trips (see trip description and talk to the trip leader) and are absolutely required for Class III and higher water. You are responsible for providing all of your camping equipment—tents, sleeping bag, food, etc. Trips marked “Car Camp” means you’ll return to a camping site for the evening. “Canoe Camp” means you need to carry all your equipment with you in your canoe. “Canoe Camp with Portage” means you’ll have an opportunity to carry all of your gear at some point on the trip. CLASSES OF WATER: We want your RTS experience to be fun. We also want it to be safe. The International Scale of River Rating Difficulty (see box) is a guide for assessing the difficulty of a stretch of water and will help you decide if a trip is appropriate for you and your skill level. Except for the occasional flatwater/quietwater lake trips, all of our trips are on rivers. Many of these trips are suitable for paddlers with solid flatwater canoe skills. Trip leaders are always happy to discuss the nature of the river with you. International Scale of
River Rating Difficulty
(Note: The scale includes two additional Classes—V and VI—but since RTS is not offering trips at that level, we didn’t include that information.) LIABILITY WAIVER and REQUIREMENTS: All participants are required to sign a liability waiver prior to the trip or clinic and abide by decisions made by the trip leaders. If you would like to read the liability waiver form before you sign up for a trip or clinic, please see: http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/chapter/forms/. TRANSPORTATION: You are responsible for providing your own transportation to and from the river. The Sierra Club does not have insurance for carpooling arrangements and assumes no liability for them. We can identify people who have space in their car and people who need rides, but we do not make transportation arrangements.
OTHER: We do not allow non-paddlers, glass containers, or alcoholic beverages on our trips while we are on the water. Pets are prohibited unless the trip announcement explicitly mentions that pets are allowed.
“CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.” QUESTIONS/COMMENTS? Please see our web site at: or http://wisconsin.sierraclub.org/rts/ or contact: Gregg Riemer, RTS Chair, at: duNord@sbcglobal.net, 608-257-5239. INSTRUCTIONAL CLINICSRTS members offer several instructional clinics for a nominal fee. These clinics are a great way to gain skills and confidence. Because we strive to maintain a low student to teacher ratio—typically 4 to l or less—we can offer highly individualized instruction. The clinics fill up early. To avoid missing out on the clinic you want to take, reserve your spot now by calling the clinic instructor and sending in your fee (non-refundable). All of the clinic teachers volunteer their time. Fees cover supplies and refreshments. RTS donates the remaining funds to conservation and river protection groups. WHITEWATER CLINIC FOR SOLO OR TANDEM CANOES June 2 - 3 Wolf River For information and registration, contact:
NEW!! - WHITEWATER CLINIC FOR WHITEWATER KAYAKS June 2 - 3 Wolf River Kayak clinic is limited to 10-12 participants. RTS whitewater clinics are for reasonably experienced moving water (river) paddlers who want to learn whitewater skills and novice whitewater paddlers who want to improve their skills. NEW this year is a clinic for whitewater kayaks. Paddlers must provide their own properly equipped whitewater kayak, which means a bulkhead OR air bags behind the seat AND a properly fitted neoprene spray skirt. (And of course life jacket and helmet.) Except for some joint canoe/kayak classroom sessions, separate instruction will be provided for kayakers. There will be a potluck dinner Saturday night for clinic participants, instructors, and RTS paddlers. Please bring a dish to share. * We have reserved the group campsite at the Wolf River Nicolet Forest Campground for camping Friday and Saturday nights. If you prefer other lodging arrangements, there are many options available. See the Wolf River Territory website (www.wolfriverterritory.com) for information. For information and registration, contact: Kasy Culbertson, 608-576-4226, kasy99@gmail.com.
MOVING WATER CANOE CLINIC June 30 Badfish Creek near Madison Class I. Clinic Fee: $25 per person. Confident and competent on lakes, but not ready for rivers? Then this canoe clinic is for you. We’ll review the basic strokes—draws, prys, sweeps, forward, back and J. We’ll discuss safety, reading water, and maneuvers—ferries, side slips, and eddy turns. Then we’ll practice these skills as we canoe Badfish Creek. To register or get more details, contact: Carl Zimm, 608-246-0485, beampowered-tetrode@yahoo.com PADDLING TRIPSMarch 31 - April 1 Robinson and Morrison Creeks near Black River FallsClass II; Car Camp. When the water is up in the spring, these two small, scenic creeks are a lot of fun. Although the Robinson has a couple of drops, they can be portaged. Trees often need to be portaged as well. As always, we’ll pick up spring thaw trash as we go, leaving the streams in better shape for those who follow. Wet/dry suit required for this early season trip. For details, contact: Phillip Johnsrud, 715-445-4777, johnsrudp@tds.net.
April 14 - 15 Little Rivers Exploratory Class III; Car Camp. Based on water levels, we’ll select two or more small rivers in central or northern Wisconsin that can only be paddled in spring. Learn about river restoration and preservation. Wet/dry suit and helmet required. Note: Depending on water levels, we may change the date of this trip. For details, contact: Dale Dean 608-302-5744, daleink55@gmail.com or Doug Robinson, 608-334-8026, dougknu@gmail.com.
April 21 - 22 South Fork Flambeau River Class III; Car Camp. If water levels cooperate, we’ll run the South Fork of the Flambeau or the Upper Jump River. We’ll move to a later date if the water is too low. Wet/dry suit and helmet required. We’ll discuss mining proposals, regulations, and related issues in the area. For details, contact: Dale Dean 608-302-5744, daleink55@gmail.com .
April 22 Bark River near Dousman Class 1+; Day trip. Join us for an early spring paddle on a clear stream made so by restored wet lands. As there are 7 bridges, portaging may be needed. Weather and water level dependent. Limited to 8 participants. For details, contact Kasy Culbertson, 608-222-0746, kasy99@gmail.com.
April 28 -29 Popple, Upper Peshtigo Class II-III; Car Camp. Catch one of Wisconsin’s 5 state-designated Wild Rivers, the Popple, at a nice level.. Learn of the history and challenges facing the Wisconsin’s Wild Rivers. Wet/dry suit and helmet required. For details, contact: Larr Zibell 715-546-2131. May 5 - 6 Pine RiverClass II; Canoe Camp. Join us for the 35th annual Pine River weekend! We plan to paddle from Highway 55 to Chipmunk Rapids in Forest and Florence Counties. This is a terrific opportunity to canoe and camp on one of Wisconsin’s designated “wild rivers.” There will be time to reflect and discuss the challenges and changes facing this river. For details, contact: Walt Ruben, 262-573-4852, walt_ruben@yahoo.com. Co-leader: Larr Zibell, 715-546-2131.
May 12 – 13 Whitewater Rivers of Central Wisconsin/Exploratory Class II-III; Car Camp. Rivers to be determined by water levels. Possibilities include Little Wolf, Eau Claire, Big Rib, etc. We’ll discuss storm water runoff and how to control it as we paddle these exciting wild rivers. Wet/dry suit and helmet required. For details, contact Doug Robinson, 608-334-8026, dougknu@gmail.com.
May 19 - 20 Brule River (WI/MI border) Class II; Canoe Camp. The Border Brule, as it’s sometimes called, features a few class I-II rapids, wooded shorelines, and a true sense of wilderness. You can expect to see eagles and other wildlife and practically no houses. We will cover 12-14 miles per day and space might be limited due to campsite size. This is a great chance to learn about canoe camping. For details, contact: Leo Hummel, 608-322-7014, dhummel@centurytel.net .
May 23 - 28 Batchawana River, Ontario, Canada Class II; Canoe Camp with portages. Join us as we paddle the Batchawana River through the beautiful Algoma Highlands north of Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, Canada. We’ll board the Algoma Central train in Sault Ste Marie for a 3-hour, 80-mile train ride to our put in. We’ll spend the next 4.5 days paddling to our takeout where the river enters Lake Superior. Along the way, we’ll paddle numerous class I and II rapids. We’ll also get to portage around 4-5 spectacular waterfalls. Although the portages aren’t particularly long, a couple of them are steep and rugged. One of the days will be a layover day where you will have the choice of a leisurely day in camp or a hike to the top of nearby Batchawana Mountain. All trip costs will be split evenly. Estimated cost is $125/person (does not including transportation to/from SSM). A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to hold your spot. For details, contact: Gregg Riemer, 608-257-5239, duNord@sbcglobal.net .
May 26 - 28 Bois Brule
June 2 - 3 WHITEWATER CLINICS for Solo and Tandem canoes and NEW!! Whitewater Kayaks (See Clinics)
June 16 - 17 Wisconsin Whitewater (for Beginners) Class II-II+; Car Camp. This trip is designed for paddlers learning the art of whitewater paddling—there won’t be any rapids rated above Class II+ on this trip. We’ll paddle rivers in northern Wisconsin, with the choice of rivers dependent upon water levels and the groups’ interest/experience. Likely candidates include the Pike, Oconto, Wolf (Sections I and/or II) and Peshtigo (Section II). This is a great opportunity to build skills and confidence with the support of other paddlers. For details, contact: Kasy Culbertson, 608-222-0746, kasy99@gmail.com or Doug Robinson, 608-334-8026, dougknu@gmail.com.
June 16 - 17 Wisconsin River Moving Water; Canoe Camp (on sandbars or shore). The Wisconsin River is rich with history and wildlife. Within an easy drive from the Madison area we can enjoy great river paddling, sandbars, sandy beaches, wooded shorelines, and a reasonably wild area. We will paddle 10 to 15 miles a day depending on water levels and winds. We will find a suitable sandbar for our primitive overnight camp. Meals and clean-up will be done cooperatively. Since we will be coordinating our food, participants must contact the leader before June 8. For details, contact: Dan Wallace, 608-835-5144 preferred, danwallace@src.wisc.edu. Co-leader: Gregg Riemer, 608-257-5239, duNord@sbcglobal.net
June 23 - 24 Mecan River Class I; Car Camp. This trip is for those that like to paddle small rivers. We will paddle a section above Germania Marsh on Saturday and a section below the marsh on Sunday. The Mecan is a premium trout stream with crystal clear water. It maintains a steady current and at times requires precise maneuvering around tight bends or dead fall. This river is not recommended for beginners struggling with boat control. Come learn about the threats and impacts of irrigation and proposed bottled water facilities. For details, contact: Leo Hummel, 608-322-7014, dhummel@centurytel.net .
June 23 -24 Wolf River Paddle and Bike Trip Class II+; Car Camp. Section II of the Wolf on Saturday. Section I on Sunday. Bike the new and endangered rail-to-trail Wolf River State Trail, then paddle back to a camp fire and pot luck party. Learn more about the struggle to preserve this river corridor. Shuttles provided. Donations to help the county with signage optional. For details, contact: Phillip Johnsrud, 715-445-4777, johnsrudp@tds.net.
June 30 MOVING WATER CANOE CLINIC (See Clinics)
July 8 - 10 Sylvania Wilderness Area (Michigan) Quietwater; Canoe Camping with portages. Explore some of the 34 clean, clear lakes in a wilderness setting. Learn about what others have done before us to make this a special place for plant, animal, and human interaction. Moonlit/dawn paddles. Family-oriented trip. 5 paddlers maximum. $10 non-refundable deposit due by June 6th. This includes 3 night camping fee. Kasy Culbertson, 608-222-0746, kasy99@gmail.com.
July 14 - 15 Wolf and Red Rivers Class II; Car Camp. Practice whitewater skills from the WW clinics before they get rusty. Paddle the Red River, a favorite of many paddlers. For details, contact: Pat or Bobbie Wilson, 608-788-8831, pbwilson@centurytel.net.
July 21 - 22 Lower Wisconsin River Class I; Canoe Camp (on sandbars). This two day, one night canoe camping trip on a remote, peaceful section of the lower Wisconsin River features inviting sandbars, sandy beaches, towering bluffs, and craggy rock outcroppings. We’ll put in near Prairie du Sac and take out near Spring Green. We’ll learn about the importance of these habitats. For details, contact: Carl Wisler at 262-542-9593, carl.wisler@att.net .
July 28 - 29 Quietwater Rivers of Central Wisconsin/Exploratory Quietwater - Class I; Car Camp. Dogs allowed. Rivers to be determined by water levels and group interest. Possibilities include Bark, Mecan, Lemonweir, Sugar, etc. We’ll explore the geography of central and southern Wisconsin and discuss how human impacts affect water quality and ecological diversity For details, contact Doug Robinson, 608-334-8026, dougknu@gmail.com.
Late July – Early August Paddle and Day Hike in Montana Class II-III; Car Camp. Join experienced paddlers on some classic western rivers. Car camp, paddle, and day hike in northwest Montana. The trip will be flexible in order to meet the needs of participants. Paddlers must feel comfortable on rivers like the Wolf Section III. Join us for all or part of this trip. For details, contact: Phillip Johnsrud, 715-445-4777, johnsrudp@tds.net.
August 4 - 5 Black River Class I; Canoe Camp (on sandbar). Life’s a beach on this section of the Black River! We’ll canoe camp on a sandbar in this beautiful quietwater section of the river downstream from Black River Falls. Children are welcome on this family-oriented trip. Learn how to canoe camp with children. For details, contact: Pat and Bobbie Wilson, 608-788-8831, pbwilson@centurytel.net.
August 11 - 12 Chippewa River Class I; Canoe Camp (on sandbars). The Chippewa River features sandbars, sandy beaches, wooded shorelines, and a wild appearance. You can expect to see eagles, osprey and other wildlife while paddling on the stretch from Dunnville on the Red Cedar River to the Mississippi. We will cover 10 to 15 miles a day and paddle through both the Dunnville and Tiffany State Wildlife Areas. This is a great chance to learn about canoe camping. For details, contact: Carl Wisler at 262-542-9593, carl.wisler@att.net .
August 18 - 19 Flambeau River Class II; Canoe Camping. Refresh your soul on the Flambeau by participating on a trip that has become one of our finest traditions. We’ll learn about the importance of protecting rivers within our State Forests. For details, contact: Rich Krieg, 920-660-3557, eddyout@gmail.com or Dale Dean, 608-302-5744, daleink55@gmail.com.
September 8 - 9 Mississippi Backwaters
September 15 - 16 Wisconsin Whitewater (rivers to be determined) Class II-III; Car Camp. Another beautiful fall weekend (if we’re lucky). Depending on water levels, paddlers’ interest, and weather, we could paddle the Pike, Red, or Wolf. This is a chance to improve paddling skills learned earlier this year in the clinics or on other rivers, and to see bald eagles and kingfishers along the way. Wet/drysuit and helmet required. For details, contact: Bruce Nelson, 608-244-6397, b1nelson@sbcglobal.net , or Kasy Culbertson, 608-222-0746, kasy99@gmail.com .
September 22 - 23 Root River (Minnesota)
September 29 Baraboo River Class 1; Day trip. This stretch of river is shallow and rocky with a nice current. Good for plastic and Royalex canoes or kayaks. Shallow gravel sections would be hard on nice kevlar or fiberglass boats. Helmets required for kayakers and solo canoes. This section used to be blocked by three dams, which have been recently removed, allowing boaters and wildlife to return. Come see how this now free-flowing river makes a fine centerpiece to historic downtown Baraboo. For details, contact: Carl Zimm, 608-246-0485, beampowered-tetrode@yahoo.com
October 4 - 7 Namekagon River (for women) Moving Water; Canoe Camping. Join five other women for a scenic 30 mile canoe paddle on the Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The Namekagon is a quiet and narrow river that meanders through varied landscape and abundant wildlife in Wisconsin’s northwoods. Cost: $100, including canoes, meals, and first night's lodging. $25 registration deposit required. Nancy McDermott, 608-238-1421, njmcderm@gmail.com.
October 13 - 14 Kickapoo River Moving Water; Canoe Camping. Ontario to LaFarge. Paddle through and learn the history of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. For details, contact: Gregg Riemer, 608-257-5239, duNord@sbcglobal.net. October 27 - 28 Wolf River (Sections II & III)Class II-III; Car Camp. Annual Halloween Trip. We’ll paddle Section III on Saturday and Section II on Sunday. Let’s leave the river looking good for winter by picking up trash as we go. Wet/drysuit and helmet required. Potluck dinner on Saturday night. For details, contact: Phillip Johnsrud, 715-445-4777, johnsrudp@tds.net.
Saturday, January 5, 2013 River Touring Section Annual Meeting Summit Village Hall, outside of Oconomowoc at 11 am. For details, contact: Gregg Riemer, 608-257-5239, duNord@sbcglobal.net
The John Muir Chapter and Cascade Chapter of the Sierra Club are offering the following trips into the Boundary Waters and Quetico Provincial Park.
Quetico Provincial Park in Ontario, Canada offers truly the most unique and premier canoeing experience anywhere in the world. You’ve heard, read and dreamed about these Boundary Waters and now you can experience them for a fraction of the price under expert guidance. Paddle, portage and camp in this pristine wilderness with new friends who share your spirit of adventure and love of nature’s wonders. Expect to see some of the same wildlife that the voyageurs, trappers and ancient Ojibway saw as you travel the same waterways that they traveled in centuries past. Learn the history of this storied land as you revel in its clear, drinkable waters, star-lit skies and deafening silence. A minimum of two layover days are planned for swimming, photography, fishing, hiking, exploring or just plain relaxing. These are trips you will talk about for many years to come.
All Quetico trip leaders are experienced veterans of the area with Wilderness First Aid training. Experience is not a requirement, but a good attitude and physical fitness are essential. All trips are 8 days, put-in through take-out. Crews are limited to nine participants. Travel to and from the base/starting point is not considered part of the trip although carpooling is encouraged and coordinated by participants. Fees include canoes, group equipment, meals, necessary lodging and park permits and taxes. Not included are pre/post trip travel, passports, personal permits and fishing licenses. Contact trip leaders for additional information, including registration, which will include a $100 deposit.
August 10 - 18, 2012
August 17 – 26, 2012
August 25 – September 3, 2012
CST 2087766-40. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. In order to participate on a Sierra Club outing, you will need to sign a liability waiver. Liability Waiver & Carpooling
Or click here to search
for a national Sierra Club outing
|