a different summer float

Yes, Summer float. Because Fall is no where in sight for the extended forecast. You can't change the weather, so you mine as well enjoy it. And we did.

We loaded up our kayaks and headed to Mirror Lake. It had been more than a month. On the drive up, I always wonder what will be different.

The lake is usually busier on a weekend. However, there were no large groups. The duo's we passed were spread out and all doing the same as we were. Quietly paddling with normal level conversing.

Heading out, this unfazed ducky girl kept mooning us as she dipped up/down/up:

ms. mallard

You could see to the bottom. I was surprised how clear the entry water was. Until it wasn't.

where did the water go?

A camouflaged Heron stood stoically on the banks. 

heron fishing thorough pea soup

The algae bloom was so thick you could hear your kayak cutting through. It made us laugh and offered a good upper body workout. Unusual for the algae to be thickest in the middle of the narrows. It made it difficult to see submerged branches. There were fewer mirrored water reflections that this lake is known for.  Also, no dancing reflections on shore to be enjoyed.

We noticed the large trees that had fallen earlier in the season and blocked water passage, were removed. However, the familiar leaning tree (below) hasn't budged since we started kayaking.

As we continued our paddle, the algae eventually cleared. 

under or over to the side, you decide

I was so surprised when we eventually reached the wide open water. It is usually thick with late season vegetation.

clear water

clear skies

The shoreline they were working on in August was visibly clearer. Offering more open water. 

clear shoreline

Apparently another side is being cleared. It should allow water passage again.

excavator spotted

There was a welcome breeze. I only saw a few dragonflies and no eagles this trip.

back to pea soup

tall rock outcroppings

The highlight of this water float for me was seeing the Heron. Brad was focused forward and missed him. I wonder how many other folks on the water did as well. He really blended in. On our way back to the boat dock, I was surprised to see the heron had not moved.

9.27.25



 iphone zoomie



crossing legs to prepare



listening for fish (?)

more duckies

While heading back home, I checked my kayaking notes. Interesting. We kayaked the same exact date last year. I was curious when the last/latest float date was last year: October 20, 2024. That seems late.

Hopefully we will get out on the water at least one more time, when Fall arrives ;)