Well, let me tell ya about floatin’ down that there Clackamas River, from Barton to Carver. It’s a right popular thing to do, see. Folks like to get out on the water, especially when the weather’s nice.
Now, I ain’t no expert or nothin’, but I been down that river a time or two. It’s a pretty easy float, they say. Takes ya maybe three or four hours, dependin’ on how fast the water’s movin’ and how much you’re paddlin’. But don’t go thinkin’ it’s all sunshine and roses, ’cause that water can be cold as a well digger’s behind, even when it’s hot outside.
They say the water comes from snow melt and all, and that makes it chilly. Even in the summer, it ain’t exactly bathwater warm. So, you gotta be careful, you hear? Don’t go jumpin’ in without thinkin’ first. And make sure you got the right gear. I seen folks shiverin’ like a scared dog after they tipped over.
About that there river, they say it’s real popular with the whitewater folks too. Further up, I hear, there’s some wild rapids and such. But the part we’re talkin’ about, from Barton to Carver, that’s the calm part. Good for families and folks who just wanna relax and enjoy the scenery.
Now, Barton Park, where you start, that can be a real zoo sometimes. Lots of people, cars everywhere. And sometimes, you get some folks who ain’t exactly the friendliest. But if you can get there early, ‘specially on a weekday, it’s a whole lot nicer. Less crowded, more peaceful.
- First off, you gotta find a place to park. That can be tricky, like I said.
- Then, you gotta get your boat or raft or whatever you’re usin’ into the water.
- And don’t forget your life jacket! They say you gotta have one for each person, and that’s just common sense if you ask me.
Once you’re on the water, it’s pretty smooth sailin’. You just float along, enjoyin’ the view. There’s trees and hills and sometimes you see some birds or maybe a deer. It’s real pretty. Just keep an eye out for rocks and branches and such. And don’t forget to paddle now and then, or you’ll just end up goin’ in circles.
They say the latest you wanna start your float from Barton to Carver is around four in the afternoon. That gives you plenty of time to get to Carver before it gets dark. And believe me, you don’t wanna be out there after dark. It gets cold and spooky.
Now, when you get to Carver, you gotta figure out how to get back to your car. Some folks leave a car at Carver, some folks call a friend or a taxi. Me? I usually just sweet-talk someone into givin’ me a ride. Works every time.
So, that’s about it. Floatin’ the Clackamas from Barton to Carver. It’s a good way to spend a day, if you ask me. Just be safe, be prepared, and be respectful of the river and the folks around you. And don’t forget to bring some snacks and somethin’ to drink. Floatin’ makes a body hungry.
And one last thing, don’t be litterin’ up the place. Pack out what you pack in. It’s our river, and we gotta keep it clean for everyone to enjoy. That’s just plain common sense, ain’t it?
Tags：[Clackamas River, Barton Park, Carver Park, Floating, River Float, Oregon, Outdoor Recreation, Family Fun, Water Sports, Paddle Sports]
