Hey Friends!
The Varsity Outdoor Club (VOC) is running a paddling trip to Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park (Indian Arm) on Oct. 12-13. Since the ocean is our domain, I thought it would be nice to send a UBC Sailing contingent over to join them.
EDIT Oct. 08: Pre-trip meeting on Thursday, 1700 at Jericho. Please come ready for a short paddle.
Here is the trip description off the VOC trip agenda:
Welcome to the annual VOC kayaking trip to Say Nuth Khaw Yum (Indian Arm)!
This is an overnight kayak trip with one night of backcountry camping, two days of paddling, and hopefully, plenty of seal encounters.
Say Nuth Khaw Yum (Indian Arm) is a narrow glacial fjord with stunning views and steep mountains on every side, located within the core of the traditional lands and waters of the Tsleil-Waututh (Səlilwətaɬ) Nation. Some of the wildlife you might get to see includes seals, bald eagles, herons, and black bears, so make sure to keep an eye out while on the water. We are truly privileged to be able to have such an incredible inlet so close to Vancouver.
The plan is to launch from Deep Cove (a short commute from Vancouver, accessible by bus or car), home to some of the best doughnuts in the lower mainland (try them for yourself!). From there, we'll paddle out to Granite Falls in Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park, where we should arrive mid-afternoon. We will set up camp, and if there is still time, people can paddle a bit more to explore or just stay in camp and hang out. One of the great things about kayak camping is being able to carry more weight than with a backpack, so we will have a celebratory dessert potluck in the evening! The next day, we'll head back to Deep Cove trying to avoid the notorious late afternoon headwind.
We will be renting double kayaks from Deep Cove - the approximate cost should come up to around $100 per person, though we will make sure to let you know the exact cost prior to the trip itself. It is important to know that there is no road access to the area beyond Deep Cove, and the steep mountains on either side limit cell reception.
This trip is beginner-friendly, which means that we will explain clearly what gear and equipment is required at the pre-trip meeting, and we won't leave anyone behind! However there are a few requirements to participate:
- You should be a confident swimmer;
- You should be fit enough to do moderate physical activity for about 5-6 hours with short breaks. The trip to Granite Falls is not so far, but a strong wind could make it quite hard work so you should be prepared for that possibility;
- You should be prepared to spend a good portion of the weekend cold and wet (especially if rain is on the forecast).
If you have never camped in the backcountry (no facilities) before, please let us know so we can make sure you have all the information you need.