Post Thanksgiving Paddle - Grand Ecore

From Tammy:

I've tried this paddle several times over the past couple of years and have always got rained or brrrrr'd out.  This year the extended forecast shows for 65 degrees and partly cloudy so I'm going to give it another shot!

Come on out and burn off those Thanksgiving calories.  This will be a loop paddle down Bayou Pierre to the Red River.  If we're lucky, there will be a beautiful white sand bar to take a break on.  I've seen eagles, raccoons and alligator tracks on this paddle.  The Grand Ecore Visitor's Center is nearby and includes a wealth of information on the area.  We found it very interesting with beautiful views from the highest bluffs on the Red River.

GRAND ECORE PADDLE

When:  Friday, November 24, 12:00pm

Hike leaders:  Tammy Jernigan

Where:  Grand Ecore Recreation Area boat ramp

Address: 1071 Tauzin Island Rd, Natchitoches, LA 71457

https://goo.gl/maps/KxqprBGcfxzk8Ab49

Cost:  There is no cost to park or launch.

Parking/Instructions: DO NOT enter Grand Ecore RV Park.  Drive just past it to the boat launch.

Duration:  We will paddle Bayou Pierre to the Red River, around a large river island and then back to the boat ramp.  It is a 3-mile paddle and can take a couple hours depending on how long we break on the sand bar.  If a side group wants to proceed down the Red River to view the Grand Ecore bluffs (the highest on the Red River) then that extra 2-mile route is an option as well.

Difficulty:   Easy in the bayou.  Depends on current in the river but on the loop paddle we'll go downstream on the Red.

What to bring:  Water, bug spray, PFD, paddle and boat.  You can bring something to sit on and a snack for the sand bar.  I will not have loaner boats available for use.

Pets:  Pets are welcome.  It may not be advisable to let them swim at the sandbar due to river critters.

Other:  Bring a small garbage bag if you're willing to help pick up/carry out any trash we run across.

Contact person:  Tammy Jernigan - tjerni88@hotmail.com