Post Thanksgiving Paddle - Grand Ecore

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 29, 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