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Traverse Area Paddle Club

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Trip Reports

May 20 Arbutus Lake

Lois Goldstein | Published on 5/20/2020

Earlier in the week, the entire state of Michigan had been inundated with heavy rain, so we decided to change the venue of this afternoon’s trip from the Boardman River, which was in flood stage.  Nine of the ten original registrants for this trip were happy to go with the flow, and join us for a leisurely tour of Arbutus Lake, just southeast of TC.  A few of the group had never been there before, so it was definitely a new and delightful experience.


Participants: Pam & Harold, Jocelyn, Mike R, Linda P, Kathleen (just recovering from elbow surgery!), Marlene, and leaders John & Lois


After an early launch (we didn’t want to block the boat ramp), we realized that one member was missing, so we headed back and arrived just as that person drove into the lot.  They had been lost driving around the famed “Arbutus Lake Triangle”, only slightly less dangerous than the one in Bermuda.


And we were off, exploring numerous nooks and crannies of this lovely lake.  There were a few pontoon boats, and others out for fishing, plus one jet ski.  I would avoid this spot on summer weekends, unless you go out very early in the day.  But today was lovely.  Highlights included a turtle and two soaring eagles, near their massive nest.


We explored the various small bays for over two hours, and covered over five miles.  And summer had arrived!  Sandals, short sleeves and sunhats!

Photos: The first was by Jocelyn and the rest were by John

Everyone at a good distance for the Governor "We stand with That Woman From Michigan": Kathleen, Marlene, Pam, Harold, John , Linda, Lois


Marlene


Kathleen


Jocelyn above, Linda below


Eagle nest and soaring eagle