Background:
Our family (2Sloths, Taking it Easy & TiEJr) went for an end of summer kayaking adventure on the Bow River from Policeman's Flats to McKinnon Flats recreational river access areas. The journey was 23 km and took just under 4 1/2 hours with cache placements and lunch. The river flow at the Bow River at Calgary station on https://rivers.alberta.ca was low at 63 m3/s, but there was sufficient water in the wider sections to stay afloat. This section of the Bow River is rated as Class I to II rapids requiring intermediate skill to novice skill with leadership. At the time we paddled, we encountered lots of flat water with occasional Class I rapids (borderline Class II). The trip is quite popular with fisherman and paddlers alike and the scenery is terrific.
Mrs. 2Sloths and the Highwood River Confluence
Cache Details:
Along the way, we decided to place a few caches that were spread out enough to be a good point to take a break. This was the third stop of the trip on an island 16.0 km downstream of Policeman's Flats. This island was 600 m upstream from the confluence of the Highwood River that must have been quite the sight during the 2013 flood. It was pretty quiet today. The cache is a green preform PET hidden above ground, hopefully above flood level. Please bring a writing instrument to sign the log.
Today's Beaching Spot
Safety:
Please note that any attempt to reach the cache by foot is not recommended as the surrounding land may be private, the terrain may be difficult and the water crossing may be dangerous (especially in the winter). Travel by boat is the recommended route, but be sure to use an appropriate craft for the conditions that can handle Class I to II rapids, be aware of current flowrates and water advisories, come equipped with required saftey equipment (life jacket, 15 m of heaving line, bailer, sound signalling device, waterproof flashlight and SOS mirror) and familairize yourself with your pull-out location. Cell signal is spotty along the river, so ensure you have arranged a pickup time at the pull-out location or have a parked vehicle waiting for you.