Was able to get some more great active time this morning: walked and kayaked the Connecticut River on/near River Road in Lyme! Starting out my "two-fer" day, I parked at Hewes Brook Landing (0900) and walked north until I reached the place where I dropped my kayak in the river last summer (road side parking just south of the Thetford Bridge). I then backtracked to the Lyme/Hanover town line. I saw more bikers than cars during the 4+ miles. Enjoyed views of the pretty homes with water access and huge yards for cookouts/relaxing. It was another pleasant day, with temps in low 60s - the sun peeked out a few times but it was mostly overcast. Just before 1100, I put my kayak in the water and, after managing to walk/paddle myself through a shallow channel, started north on the Connecticut. Despite it being Labor Day weekend, I was the only person on the water. There were lots of watercraft tied up on the shore (on NH and VT sides) but I guess no one wanted a day on the River. Their loss! I ended up finding the place where I’d last kayaked in the area after about two miles of paddling. Turned around immediately but then took my time getting back to the Landing. There was a little breeze but the water was mostly calm. Saw lots of birds along the shoreline (safe in Wilder Waterfowl Management Area) and in the air (most of them southbound). Got a good view of Smarts Mountain at one point. Finished my fun on the water just after 1200. It felt great to have gotten so much exercise in the AM! Sad that there are so many signs of the end of Summer - hope I'll be able to kayak a few more times before Fall truly arrives…
