We had 14 paddlers on our annual Colorado river trip- a nice sized group. 13 met at the Loma lauch at 0800 then we met the 14 th at the Westwater take out. After rigging and packing the boats we left at 1130 and arrived at Mee 3 campground at 1530. River flow was 3090 cfs and we had a gentle current with some easy rapids for the 13.5 miles to Mee 3. The water was low with a rocky shallow takeout so no difficulties with landing boats. The campsite has sage brush but no shade so it will be hot in the summer.
Several folks wanted to hike Mee Canyon and made it partway up the canyon before dinner. I had hoped to arrive earlier to allow a longer hike so I’ll try to get on the river sooner next trip. We had an unorganized potluck as people brought a lot of appetizers to share.
Saturday morning was cool and clear for the second day of paddling – took 3 hours to do the 11.5 miles to Westwater. Along the way we saw mallards, geese, Great Blue Heron and one bald eagle. The second day we had a Bighorn ram walked along a ridge above us for a good100 yards to make sure we left his area and we saw at least two other females with him.
All together we had 5 canoes and 4 kayaks with 14 total. I was good to see some new members and we had 2 young kids as well.
Another bonus was the Monday drive home to the front range avoiding all the weekend traffic.
Mark Flora and Elaine O’Reilly
10/4/25
- Boat Rigging at Loma Sunday morning (photo Ted E)
2. On the River (photo Randy P)
3. Mee 3 landing with Mee Canyon in the background (photo Ted E)
3. Black Rocks (photo Ted E)
5. “Paddling Black Rocks” (video Randy P)
6. Derigging at Westwater Station on Monday (photo Ted E)