My friend Paul Smith and I will meet in Eminence late morning Thursday, December 26 for a float down the Current River. The section we'll run is all class I with a nice flow due to its constant replenishment from numerous springs. There is some boat control required, and cold weather gear is a must. This float is suitable for any type of boat, but keep in mind this is a multi-day trip so you'll need gear space. It will likely start at Cedargrove and end at Round Spring, but that's not set in stone yet. We do plan to be off the river in time to be home at a decent hour Saturday night.
Now that that's out of the way, here's the plan. We'll launch late Thursday morning and float, fish and gawk our way down river until we find the gravel bar that will be our home for the night. We'll sleep in the next morning and eventually start making our way down river again when we're warmed up a little. We'll repeat.
This is an every man for himself trip with the following caveats. I'll have a grill that can accomdodate whatever anyone wants to cook over the fire. I'll also have a big four burner stove that will be fair game for anyone who needs it along with quite a bit of table space. Those of you who roll with me also know I'll have a Dutch Oven or two along that will likely yield some treats I'll need lots of help eating.
If you've never floated this river In the Bleak Midwinter you need to. There's a lot to experience, and just as importantly one thing we won't experience is the River Dork hatch that keeps me off that river between May and September. There are big springs, old homestead cabins and caves (one of which can be paddled into) easily accessible from the river, and the coyotes will sing us to sleep at night. We'll build big white man fires, drink vast quantities of hot beverages, cut up and enjoy each others' fellowship. The bringing of kids is encouraged.
I realize this is kind of short notice and many folks won't be able to get a yard pass for the days immediately following Christmas. Heck, I was surprised when Mrs. Deuce gave me one, but she knows how stir crazy I get when I've been stuck inside too long. I intend to depart central Arkansas around 5:00 Thursday morning and will welcome passengers and/or convoy members. Details will follow as they emerge, and if you want to talk to me directly just dial or text five01951eight63five any time. Merry Christmas and happy paddling!
