some that I'd like to visit time and time again. Here are a sampling:
Upper Cuyahoga River - Eldon Russel State Park, Geauga County, Ohio, USA
The Upper Cuyahoga River is one of my most favorite palces to paddle. It flows most of the year allowing for winter excursions - when other lakes and reservoirs are frozen. My favorite access is from Eldon Russel Park. One can head north several miles to the beginnings of the river, or head south to Hiram Falls.
In the spring, nature's engineers unveiled their work. I counted eight large beaver huts within one mile stretch and many trees in the process of being chewed down. Painted turtles basked in the warm sun on logs lining the river. On several occasions, Iv'e seen mink scamper along the river bank and numerous beaver swim across my path.
Summertime brings paddlers enjoying a lazy day trip in small groups drifting in the slow current.
Prothonotary Warblers, migrating Sand Hill Crane and Bald Eagle are yearly visitors. The banks team with life, from flowering plants to tiny mushrooms.
I witnessed several otter having a playful frolic, rolling around in the shallows. several took notice of me for a short while, poking their heads up before slithering away.
In autumn, the river's surroundings become intense with rich colors, musky scents and cool water.
When the leaves are gone, the stillness and cool air make it a beautiful place to be when the sun is low in the sky.
Full moon paddles on the upper Cuyahoga are very intimate and enjoyable year round. The summer night is very active with the sounds of crickets, frogs, heron, and the splashings of fish and beaver tails. The sounds of animals diminish as the temperature drops.
Paddling in winter helps break the duldrums and keeps the body and mind fit. I take extra precaution in reviewing rescue routines in case of a capsize.
Hot chocolate or tea and snacks are always soothing during rest stops.
The water and wind created an amazing sculpture resembling a bonzai tree. Signs of active beaver activity are abundant.
My West Greenland kayak felt "at home" this winter day. Before long it'll be spring, again.
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