Name: Rainbow River - There and back again -- PBO
Start: 2024-12-10T09:00:00-05:00
End: 2024-12-10T12:00:00-05:00

December is our favorite time to paddle the beautiful Rainbow River! On a chilly day we often have the river all to ourselves. Gone are the herds of canoeists and kayakers, busy tubing concession, small motorized boats, jet skis, pontoons, paddleboards, boom boxes, snorkelers, and children that crowd the river during the summer.

We'll put in at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park and paddle upstream about 3 1/2 miles to K.P. Hole Park, where we can take a stretch break. Then we'll have a leisurely paddle and float 3 1/2 miles downstream to return to our cars at Blue Run Park.

**TRIP DETAILS**
One of the most beautiful waterways in Florida, the Rainbow offers crystal clear spring waters that allow us to view wildlife above and below. Rainbow River is fed by a Category One spring system providing 400 million gallons per day of crystal clear 74-degree water, and is considered one of the largest aquifers in the world. We'll pass through a populated area, with many private boat docks, but we'll also have opportunities to see birds, fish, turtles, and maybe river otters.

River Description: Clear spring water, a constant 74 degrees, which feels really good when the air temperature is in the 40s! Current is 2 - 3 mph. Not technically difficult, but we'll paddle against the current for about 3 1/2 miles before taking a break and then turning back downstream.

Scenery: Expect to see a variety of water birds and turtles. The west bank has housing development along the river and the east bank is undeveloped natural landscape.

Trip Length: about 7 miles round trip, about 3 hours total.

Skill Level: This will be a rigorous paddle trip. Be prepared to paddle steadily against a 2-3 mph current for about 90 minutes before taking a break at KP Hole Park, and then turning downstream. Should be able to perform forward, back, and turning strokes with good stability. Should have some experience in light to moderate current and with navigation around deadfall.

Wind Impact/Issues: Minimal

Temperature: Dress in layers, quick-dry fabrics only, no cotton. Cold temperature and possible wind can be uncomfortable or risky.

**SPECIAL NOTE:** Florida Law prohibits disposable items on the Rainbow River. If you bring food or drinks, make sure they're in non-disposable, dishwasher-safe containers. City, county, and state officials patrol the river and they can fine you for having disposable food or drink containers in your boat. Don't bring single use drink bottles, snack bags, single use shopping bags, napkins, etc. They are illegal on the Rainbow! Acceptable are: nalgene-type bottles, travel mugs, Tupperware, Gladware, camelbacks, etc.

**LUNCH OPTION:**
Lugo's Cuban Grill
20583 W. Pennsylvania Ave, Dunnellon

**RESTROOMS:** Porta-potties at Blue Run Park . Flush toilets at KP Hole County Park

**SIGN UP:**
To participate in this trip, RSVP as soon as possible. For insurance reasons, only club members (no guests) may participate in VCKC trips. Each participant must sign up individually, even if sharing a boat.

If you must cancel, change your RSVP (as soon as possible) to "not going" so the next person on the waitlist can participate. If you're on the waitlist, monitor your email for updates.

**EQUIPMENT:**
It is your responsibility to come properly equipped for safety and comfort.
Mandatory Items

* Personal Flotation Device -- VCKC and Coast Guard require members to wear a PFD, correctly fastened
* Whistle, required by USCG
* Water in a non-disposable bottle

Recommended Items

* Red vinyl VCKC hang tag
* Emergency contact ID
* Sun protection -- hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
* Rescue rope (min 10 ft)
* Bailer and sponge
* Extra clothing layers, quick dry, no cotton

HAVE FUN AND PADDLE SAFELY!

The Villages Canoe & Kayak Club

Travel & Outdoor

Flat Water Kayaking

Canoeing

Sea Kayaking

Paddling

Kayaking

Rainbow River - There and back again -- PBO

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Rainbow River - There and back again -- PBO

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